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Biophilic Design With Exposed Concrete And Natural Wood Elements In A Hospice Setting

Authors:
Rebekka Waters, Florian Zeif
Biophilic Design With Exposed Concrete And Natural Wood Elements In A Hospice Setting

Project in-detail

Featuring biophilic design elements with extensive use of exposed concrete and natural wood, this hospice integrates seamlessly with its surroundings to provide a calming and supportive environment for patients and their families.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for structural integrity and thermal performance.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for durability and aesthetic appeal.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that enhances spatial dynamics and views.
04
Integrates extensive glass elements to maximize natural light and connect with the landscape.
05
Prioritizes biophilic design to create a calming atmosphere for occupants.

FINDLING is an architectural project located in Grundlsee, Austria, designed as a hospice facility. The project focuses on creating a supportive environment essential for the emotional and physical well-being of its occupants. The design harmonizes with the surrounding landscape, utilizing topography, natural materials, and open spaces to foster a tranquil atmosphere conducive to healing.

The architecture emphasizes the integration of indoor and outdoor experiences. Fluid spatial configurations allow for seamless transitions between private and communal areas, supporting social interactions while ensuring privacy. This organization reflects an understanding of how individuals in hospice care require both solitude and connection with others.

Design Approach: Integration with Nature

A unique aspect of FINDLING is its emphasis on biophilic design principles. The architecture incorporates large windows and sliding doors, allowing natural light to permeate the interiors and providing expansive views of the nearby lake and mountains. The design utilizes a palette of exposed concrete, wood, and glass, enhancing the connection to the natural environment while maintaining modern aesthetics. The choice of materials supports sustainability, promoting low maintenance and energy efficiency, which are critical for healthcare facilities.

The landscaping around the hospice complements the architectural design. Native plantings and water features are strategically placed to create serene outdoor spaces where occupants can engage with nature. Pathways guide visitors through the grounds, fostering movement and exploration while promoting a sense of calm.

Functional Layout: Human-Centered Design

The internal layout of FINDLING comprises interconnected spaces that prioritize both communal and private functions. Private rooms are designed to enhance comfort and tranquility, featuring large windows that invite the outside in. Common areas serve as gathering spaces, allowing family members and patients to interact and support each other.

Therapy and treatment rooms are distributed thoughtfully within the facility, ensuring ease of access while preserving privacy for patients. The open-plan layout encourages a sense of community while still catering to individual needs, reflecting a comprehensive understanding of the hospice's operational requirements.

FINDLING represents a significant achievement in hospice architecture, exemplifying how thoughtful design can contribute to the well-being of individuals in vulnerable situations. To gain deeper insights into this project, including architectural plans, sections, and designs, readers are encouraged to explore further details of this innovative approach to care-focused architecture.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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