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Biophilic Design Featuring Vertical Slats and Natural Materials in a Holistic Care Facility

Authors:
Joshua Robinson, Jared Triemer, Morgan Frederick
Biophilic Design Featuring Vertical Slats and Natural Materials in a Holistic Care Facility

Project in-detail

With its biophilic design utilizing vertical slats of thermally modified timber and an emphasis on natural light, the facility provides a supportive environment for hospice care that fosters connection with nature and community.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes thermally modified timber for durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Features extensive vertical wooden slats for privacy while enhancing natural light.
03
Includes multiple garden terraces to promote outdoor healing spaces.
04
Incorporates a flexible layout to support family-centered care activities.
05
Employs sustainable building practices through the use of eco-friendly materials.

### ZenCare+: A Holistic Approach to Hospice Care

Located in an urban environment designed to foster tranquility, ZenCare+ emphasizes a holistic approach to hospice facilities, focusing on the well-being of patients and families. The project integrates visible architectural elements with a design philosophy that prioritizes emotional and physical health, redefining the hospice experience. It addresses the complexities faced by those in hospice care and transforms traditional clinical environments into spaces that encourage comfort, community, and interaction with nature.

#### Spatial Configuration

The architectural strategy incorporates multiple levels, with the ground floor dedicated to an open and welcoming area for families and visitors. The upper floors are organized with angular designs that create terraces and green spaces, enhancing outdoor engagement. Notably, the “Vessel” area is designed to facilitate movement and activity, while also providing spaces for contemplation and reflection. This thoughtful arrangement underscores the importance of both community interaction and personal respite in the hospice setting.

#### Material Selection and Sustainability

Materials for ZenCare+ are chosen for their environmental sustainability and capacity to promote wellness. The application of thermally modified timber in the facade provides warmth and durability, while concrete forms the structural foundation of the building, ensuring resilience. Large glass panels enhance natural light and visual connectivity between indoor and outdoor environments. Additionally, steel elements reinforce the structural integrity with a modern aesthetic. These materials collectively advance the building's sustainability goals by minimizing energy consumption and promoting a harmonious atmosphere conducive to healing and reflection.

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

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Competition organisers

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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
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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
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