BIG PLANS FOR SENIORS RETREAT

Its mountainous green roofs undulate and meander through the complex, bringing nature closer to the living spaces and helping to create a stress-free environment. BIG's project was recently honoured as a winner in the 2014 Architizer A+Awards.

The development is located on the eastern coast of Taiwan, which has recently seen a dramatic outflux of young people going to larger urban centres in search of better jobs. The area has since seen a growing demand for housing and recreational facilities for seniors and retirees.

The Hualien development places a particular focus on exercise and healthy living, with programs catering to an ageing demographic. The buildings are shaped to encourage the growth of a community that is health-conscious and productive. In addition to designated speed walking paths, a public path wraps around the entire complex and is studded with interesting activities to pique interest and encourage more walking and exercise, such as an observation point, performance stage, shops and restaurants. An underground jogging path can be used during inclement weather and serves as an excellent shortcut to all buildings via an interior route. A medical facility located within the complex ensures that residents have ready access to healthcare services.

In addition, there are also an array of amenities such as media rooms, lounges, libraries, pools, common gardens and meditation spaces.

The Hualien Wellness & Residential development seeks to find the perfect balance between nature, health and the built environment. Sloping green roofs provide shade, remove heat, harvest rainwater and produce clean, breathable air, while the proximity to lush vegetation in the apartments creates a stress-relieving environment for residents.