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Basalt and Wood Sanctuary for End-of-Life Care on Jeju Island

Authors:
Haeseung Han, Subin Son, Minjung Choi, Hajeong Kim
Basalt and Wood Sanctuary for End-of-Life Care on Jeju Island

Project in-detail

Rooted in basalt and timber, the design creates a hospitable environment for end-of-life care on Jeju Island, fostering community and reflection through thoughtfully crafted spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced basalt to enhance thermal performance and aesthetic integration with the landscape.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and improved indoor air quality.
03
Features charred wooden shingles that provide fire resistance while contributing to a calming visual texture.
04
Includes a community courtyard designed to encourage gatherings and shared experiences among families.
05
Emphasizes accessibility through carefully planned circulation routes that promote ease of movement throughout the facility.
The project "HOSANG (Well _ Dying)" is an architectural design that focuses on creating a supportive environment for individuals facing the end of life. Located on Jeju Island, South Korea, the project emphasizes the interplay between architecture and the inherent cultural practices surrounding mortality. It strives to redefine traditional notions of dying by fostering a sense of community, comfort, and dignity.

The primary function of HOSANG is to provide a sanctuary for the dying and their families. It combines specialized spaces that cater to medical needs with areas designed for social interaction and contemplation. Through thoughtful spatial organization, the project facilitates both private reflection and communal engagement, addressing the psychological and emotional dimensions of end-of-life care.

Unique Design Approaches
One of the distinguishing features of HOSANG is its materiality. The use of local basalt provides a connection to the island’s geology while offering structural integrity. Additionally, the incorporation of wood throughout the design adds warmth, creating a soothing atmosphere that mitigates the clinical feel often associated with health care environments. The strategic use of glass maximizes natural light, connecting interior spaces with the serene landscapes of Jeju, enhancing the overall ambient quality of the facility.

The spatial layout includes dedicated areas such as meditation rooms, rehabilitation spaces, and communal kitchens, which collectively promote a holistic approach to end-of-life care. These areas are designed to encourage family gatherings, supportive activities, and moments of personal reflection. The architectural plan emphasizes fluid circulation and accessibility, allowing residents and visitors to move freely between spaces without creating barriers.

Innovative spatial functions are evident in areas like the “Tomnar’s Courtyard,” which serves as a communal gathering space that promotes social interaction among residents and their families. This feature highlights a key design intention: to soften the experience of dying through community support. Additionally, the integration of rehabilitation facilities addresses the physical and emotional well-being of residents, ensuring that the need for physical health is not overlooked.

Detailed architectural sections of the project reveal careful attention to both functionality and aesthetics, reinforcing the narrative of connection to place and community. The architectural ideas presented through this project seek to challenge conventional perceptions of dying, presenting it as a shared human experience, rather than a solitary journey.

For those interested in further exploring the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs of HOSANG, a deeper dive into the project presentation will provide valuable insights into its comprehensive approach and unique design philosophies.
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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
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