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Biophilic Healing Space with Air-Purifying Plants and Natural Timber Elements

Authors:
Neil Aspinall, Neil Aspinall, Kate Mathers
Biophilic Healing Space with Air-Purifying Plants and Natural Timber Elements
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Incorporating air-purifying plants within a naturally illuminated courtyard, this design utilizes timber and glass to create a supportive environment for individuals undergoing cancer treatment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates an indoor courtyard with a variety of air-purifying plants to enhance indoor air quality.
02
Utilizes user-controlled environmental systems for personalized comfort adjustments.
03
Features a communal table as a central element to promote social interaction among users.
04
Constructed with charred wooden shingles for improved durability and aesthetic appeal.
05
Designed with expansive glass windows to maximize natural light and views of the surrounding environment.

## Project Overview
Located in Krakow, Poland, this architectural design focuses on creating a supportive environment specifically for individuals affected by cancer, embodying the principles of Healing Architecture. The intent is to foster community, enhance well-being, and provide spaces for both privacy and interaction that are essential for individuals facing health challenges. This project prioritizes the integration of natural elements and accessible design to facilitate a healing experience.

## Spatial Strategy
### Community Interaction and Privacy
The design strategically organizes spaces to emphasize both communal engagement and personal refuge. Central to this concept is a large communal table, symbolizing connection and fostering social interaction among users. The layout includes a blend of public and private areas, facilitating organic flow while ensuring that personal space is respected. Generous natural light permeates through expansive windows, connecting the interior with the surrounding greenery, and creating an atmosphere of warmth through wood finishes and muted tones.

### Air Quality and Serenity
A notable feature is the “Oxygen Room,” an indoor courtyard filled with meticulously selected air-purifying plants that filter toxins and enhance indoor air quality. This element serves both functional and recreational purposes, providing a serene retreat where individuals can experience nature safely within the confines of the building. The space encourages a calming environment which aligns with the overall goal of promoting emotional well-being and comfort for users.

## Materiality and Climate Response
### Natural Elements in Design
The material selection plays a crucial role in shaping the project's atmosphere. Predominantly featuring various types of wood for structural elements, wall finishes, and furnishings, the design emphasizes natural aesthetics that contribute to emotional comfort. Large glass windows enhance the connection to the outdoors, facilitating ample daylight while minimizing barriers between inside and outside.

### Sustainable Choices
Textiles made from natural fibers are incorporated into soft furnishings to enhance tactile comfort, while innovative passive design strategies are employed to optimize energy efficiency. The building's layout takes advantage of natural light in winter months for warmth while providing shading during peak summer, ensuring thermal comfort and reducing the overall energy footprint.

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Kingspan MICROHOME 2026: Building Less to Create More

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Competition organisers

The Kingspan MICROHOME 2026 competition invites architects and designers worldwide to rethink small-scale living by creating an off-grid, modular micro dwelling under 25 m². Now in its 11th edition, the contest emphasizes sustainable, innovative, and human-centered design that demonstrates how compact living can have a big impact.

With a €100,000 prize fund, entries will be evaluated for originality, efficiency, and their response to contemporary environmental and social challenges. The competition is open to everyone, with submissions allowed individually or in teams of up to four. Registration closes on 30 September 2026, and winners will be announced on 15 December 2026.

By celebrating creativity within strict limits, MICROHOME 2026 continues to push the boundaries of compact architecture and sustainable living.

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

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