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Charred Wood and Natural Stone Unite to Create a Healthcare Facility in Rwanda’s Eco-Conscious Landscape

Author:
Caite Linden Canfield
Charred Wood and Natural Stone Unite to Create a Healthcare Facility in Rwanda’s Eco-Conscious Landscape

Project in-detail

Constructed using locally sourced charred wood and natural stone, the facility seamlessly integrates into the landscape of Virunga National Park, serving as a vital healthcare resource for the surrounding community.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Constructed with cross-laminated timber panels to improve structural performance.
03
Incorporates a healing garden designed to promote mental well-being.
04
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes natural light and ventilation.
05
Employs locally sourced materials to strengthen community ties and reduce environmental impact.
The Healthpost is an architectural project designed to enhance healthcare accessibility in the vicinity of Virunga National Park, Rwanda. This development addresses the pressing healthcare needs of the local population while demonstrating a commitment to environmental stewardship. The design focuses on integrating health services within the ecological landscape, promoting sustainability and community well-being.

The Healthpost encompasses various functional spaces, including consultation rooms, community gathering areas, and outdoor therapeutic gardens. The architectural layout facilitates efficient movement throughout the facility, ensuring ease of access for patients and healthcare providers alike. This integration of space supports a holistic approach to health, emphasizing both physical and psychological wellness.

Community-Centered Design

The project stands out through its community-centered design approach, ensuring that local stakeholders were involved in the development process. The design reflects cultural sensitivities and aims to serve diverse health needs. This engagement results in a facility that resonates with the local populace, addressing their specific healthcare challenges while fostering a sense of ownership.

Sustainability and Materiality

Another unique aspect of The Healthpost is its emphasis on sustainability through the use of locally sourced materials. Key materials include natural stone for the façade, timber for structural elements, glass to enhance natural light, and recycled materials throughout the project. This material selection not only reduces environmental impact but also creates a building that blends seamlessly into its surroundings. The careful consideration of these materials enhances the thermal performance of the structure, contributing to energy efficiency and long-term durability.

The architectural form of the Healthpost is designed to reflect the unique topography of the region, minimizing disruption to the landscape. The incorporation of outdoor spaces promotes interaction with nature and provides therapeutic benefits, further emphasizing the project's commitment to holistic health.

The Healthpost exemplifies a partnership between architecture and environmental conservation, reinforcing the importance of accessible healthcare in remote areas. For a more in-depth understanding of the architectural strategies employed, readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, sections, and designs that illustrate the cohesive integration of community, health, and nature within this project.
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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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