Get inspired!

17,249 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Vertical Louvers and Rainwater Harvesting Enhance Sustainable Senior Living in Urban Poland

Author:
Natalia DembiŃska
Vertical Louvers and Rainwater Harvesting Enhance Sustainable Senior Living in Urban Poland

Project in-detail

Incorporating vertical louvers for enhanced shading and a rainwater harvesting system, the design provides sustainable and accessible living for seniors in an urban setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Sustainable rainwater harvesting system integrated into the landscape design.
02
Extensive use of vertical oak louvers for natural ventilation and shading.
03
Flexible apartment layouts that can be easily adapted for individual needs.
04
Incorporation of a greenhouse to promote gardening and community engagement.
05
Proximity to a forest, enhancing residents' access to nature and outdoor activities.
The Senior Home architectural project located in Łódź, Poland, addresses the growing need for elder housing solutions within urban environments. This design exemplifies a contemporary approach to senior living, emphasizing community integration, independence, and accessibility. The layout effectively combines private living spaces with communal areas, fostering social interaction among residents while catering to individual needs.

The architectural design consists of multiple layers of functionality, catering to both private and collective living. It features single and double apartments, designed to provide comfortable and adaptable living conditions. Each apartment incorporates adaptable layouts that allow for personal preference, with options for terraces to encourage outdoor interaction.

The communal areas are a key aspect of the project, including educational workshops, cafes, and recreational spaces. These areas are strategically placed to ensure easy access for all residents, promoting a sense of community and engagement. Additionally, the integration of a greenhouse within the facility enhances the connection to nature and provides therapeutic gardening opportunities, which are beneficial for residents' mental well-being.

Sustainability is a significant focus of the project. The architectural design utilizes a rainwater retention system to collect runoff for irrigation, demonstrating a commitment to environmental responsibility. Material choices, such as reinforced concrete for structure, silicone plaster for façades, and vertical oak louvers for aesthetics, contribute to both the functional and visual aspects of the project. This balanced materiality not only ensures durability but also addresses thermal efficiency and visual comfort.

The design of this Senior Home uniquely prioritizes both private and public living. By creating spaces that promote independence while fostering community, it serves as a model for future elder care facilities. The layout and material choices reflect an understanding of the complexities of aging and the importance of maintaining quality of life through thoughtful design.

For a deeper understanding of the project, including architectural plans, sections, and design ideas, readers are encouraged to explore the comprehensive project presentation. This will provide additional insights into how the unique elements of this project contribute to effective elder housing solutions.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

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

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,249 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy