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Vertical Gardens and Perforated Metal Enclosures Enhancing Senior Living Spaces

Authors:
Thi Phuong Nhung Pham, Shiva Bolboli, Lea Jasmin Zurbuchen
Vertical Gardens and Perforated Metal Enclosures Enhancing Senior Living Spaces

Project in-detail

Incorporating vertical gardens and a semi-transparent façade of perforated metal, this senior living development prioritizes community interaction while seamlessly integrating nature and sustainable practices within its urban setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a semi-transparent perforated metal façade to promote ventilation and natural light.
02
Features vertical gardens to enhance greenery and improve air quality.
03
Incorporates adaptable living units that allow for various configurations.
04
Includes dedicated rooftop farming spaces for resident engagement in urban agriculture.
05
Integrates rainwater harvesting systems to maintain sustainability in water usage.

## Overview

Located in the Sant Martí district of Barcelona, the "Communal Niches" project focuses on creating adaptable living environments for senior citizens that prioritize privacy while encouraging social interaction. The design addresses the critical issues of loneliness and isolation within this demographic, integrating natural elements into the urban landscape. The project aims to foster a supportive community atmosphere while reflecting the area's evolution from industrial origins to a contemporary residential neighborhood.

## Spatial Strategy and Community Design

The "Communal Niches" project incorporates a concept known as "Green Bubbles," emphasizing the need for interconnected living spaces that enhance community bonding. Shared areas and private living units are arranged to facilitate social engagement among residents, thus promoting overall well-being. The design includes a range of living configurations, enabling personalization to meet the diverse needs of the senior population. An integral part of this strategy is the incorporation of community-focused inner courtyards and transportation pathways designed for enhanced accessibility, linking residences to essential amenities in the surrounding area.

## Materiality and Sustainability

The architectural material choices reflect both functionality and aesthetic considerations. A semi-transparent façade composed of glass and perforated metal promotes natural light while allowing for plant growth and maintaining privacy. Balconies, crafted from reinforced concrete and wood, offer communal spaces enriched by greenery, fostering a connection to nature. The sloped roofing system is designed to efficiently harvest rainwater for irrigation, aligning with sustainable living practices. Additionally, rooftop farming initiatives utilize lightweight planters made from sustainable materials, encouraging residents to participate in food cultivation. Overall, the design integrates sustainable strategies without compromising on aesthetic appeal, contributing to the harmonious urban environment.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

MICROHOME

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
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MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Kinderspace
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