A grid of thin cross-laminated timber columns frames communal spaces at the centre of this co-living project for senior citizens in Slagelse, Denmark, a collaboration between Danish developer Tetris and Copenhagen architecture practice Sangberg.
Ibihaven, which has been shortlisted in the housing project category of Dezeen Awards 2021, is the first project in a new concept called Agorahaverne, or Agora Gardens, creating sustainable co-housing for seniors with a focus on shared communal space.
Ibihaven is a co-living facility for senior citizens and was designed by Tetris and Sangberg
Referencing a Greek agora or town square, the blocks containing Ibihaven's 76 apartments are arranged around a covered courtyard containing workshop, exercise, library and lounge spaces in-between a series of small gardens. The design's community-building aspects have been supported by research carried out in collaboration with Copenhagen University and anthropology consulting firm Maple.
The building was constructed using cross-laminated timber
"The atrium garden is a covered 'urban space' which draws nature all the way into the buildings and allows for spontaneous and disorganised meetings between residents and guests," explained Sangberg Architects.
"Research shows an increase in quality of life among residents in community living, and Agorahaverne aims to achieve the same through community events, interests, exercise and good neighbourliness," added developer Tetris.
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