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Charred Wood Accents and Curvilinear Forms Shape a Thoughtful Care Facility Embracing Nature

Author:
Gloria pw Lei
Charred Wood Accents and Curvilinear Forms Shape a Thoughtful Care Facility Embracing Nature

Project in-detail

With its curvilinear design and the warm embrace of charred wood accents, the facility redefines end-of-life care by fostering a sense of community and connection to nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a bent A-frame design that enhances spatial dynamics and invites natural light.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and an organic aesthetic.
03
Features cross-laminated timber panels that promote sustainability and structural efficiency.
04
Design includes community gardens, fostering a connection to nature and social interaction.
05
Large, transparent walls provide unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape, creating a calming environment.
The Centre for Living & Dying Well is a thoughtfully conceptualized architectural project aimed at transforming the experience of end-of-life care to foster a more open, compassionate atmosphere surrounding death. This facility is designed not merely as a medical center but as a nurturing environment that emphasizes community, comfort, and a holistic approach to healthcare. By harmoniously integrating functionality and aesthetic appeal, this project acknowledges the complex emotional landscape associated with the process of dying.

At its core, the Centre for Living & Dying Well seeks to redefine public perceptions of death by inviting the community into the heart of the dialogue surrounding life and mortality. Its design reflects a commitment to inclusivity, encouraging individuals to engage with the space, thereby reducing stigma and fostering understanding. The carefully planned layout includes both private and communal areas, ensuring that the needs of patients and their families are met with sensitivity and respect.

The project encompasses several key components that enhance its functionality and appeal. The open-plan design promotes natural flow and movement throughout the facility, allowing easy access for patients and visitors. Dedicated spaces for family interaction are interspersed with quiet zones for contemplation, recognizing the need for both social connection and solitude during the dying process. Further, the architectural layout is characterized by a circular arrangement that symbolizes unity and continuity, reinforcing the idea of life cycles and interconnectedness.

Natural light is a defining element in the project, with expansive windows and carefully positioned skylights harnessing daylight to create a welcoming atmosphere. This design consideration not only enhances the aesthetic quality of the interior but also contributes to the psychological well-being of those within the space. The views from the building offer sightlines to surrounding greenery, linking the occupants of the centre with nature, which can have a calming effect and promote healing.

The material selection also plays a crucial role in conveying warmth and accessibility throughout the Centre for Living & Dying Well. The use of colored render on the exterior promotes a friendly façade, while high-strength resin-impregnated concrete adds durability to structural elements, combining practical functionality with visual appeal. Wood features prominently in the interior spaces, providing a homely feel that enhances comfort for those in what might be a distressing time.

An innovative approach to structural design is evident in the integration of curvilinear forms, which serve both aesthetic and functional purposes. These curves not only soften the visual impact of the building in its environment but also facilitate effective load distribution. This thoughtful attention to structural integrity, combined with the embrace of non-linear design elements, distinguishes this project as a modern response to architectural challenges in the healthcare sector.

The Centre for Living & Dying Well is strategically located to ensure high accessibility, being within a five-minute walk of major public transport links. This logistical consideration underscores the project's commitment to facilitating ease of access for patients, families, and volunteers, enabling crucial support networks to come together in times of need.

Overall, the Centre for Living & Dying Well represents a significant stride toward resetting the norms around end-of-life care in architecture, merging function with a profound respect for the human experience. Its design reflects an understanding of the emotional complexities faced by individuals and families in times of grief. The project stands as a compelling example of how architecture can influence societal perceptions and provide supportive environments for life's most challenging moments.

For those interested in exploring the intricacies of this architectural endeavor, further investigation into the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural ideas that underline the Centre for Living & Dying Well is encouraged. The project presentation offers deeper insights and a comprehensive understanding of its design philosophy and functionality in addressing the sensitive nature of living and dying well.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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