Architecture project // Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create Nurturing Space for Childhood Healing

Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create Nurturing Space for Childhood Healing

Author:

Nazanin Zakeri sardroudi

With charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber framing, the design creates a tranquil setting that prioritizes healing and support for children and their families in a dedicated hospice environment.

5 key facts about this project

Charred wooden shingles enhance both aesthetics and fire resistance.

Cross-laminated timber construction promotes rapid assembly and sustainability.

Bent A-frame design maximizes interior space for comfort and functionality.

Dedicated sensory gardens integrated into the design promote outdoor therapy.

Flexible room layouts allow adaptive use for various family needs.

General keywords

childrens hospice healthcare facility community center family support patient rooms treatment areas outdoor garden public space natural light sustainable materials

Project specific keywords

sensory gardens modular spaces wooden cladding natural ventilation family suites healing environment outdoor therapy flexible layouts light-filled eco-conscious practices

## Project Overview

Noor Express is designed as a children's hospice located in an environment conducive to healing and comfort for young patients with serious medical conditions. The intent is to create a space that embodies warmth and community, aligning with the concept of “Noor,” which means light. The architecture reflects these principles, establishing an inviting atmosphere that promotes positive interactions among children, their families, and medical staff.

## Spatial Organization

The layout is organized into three distinct zones: public, semi-private, and private, each serving specific functions while fostering engagement and privacy.

### Public Zone

The public zone serves as the central hub, facilitating connections among families and staff. Key features include a welcoming entrance that instills a sense of security, common areas that encourage socialization with comfortable seating and play spaces, and a library that offers resources for education and relaxation.

### Semi-Private and Private Zones

The semi-private zone balances accessibility with personal space, featuring treatment rooms designed to foster comfort for children and shared play areas enriched with natural light. The private zone focuses on the intimate needs of each child, incorporating patient rooms that encourage family presence and parent rooms that provide necessary support and respite for caregivers.

## Material Selection and Unique Design Elements

The material choices prioritize sustainability and comfort while integrating harmoniously with the natural surroundings.

### Sustainable Use of Materials

Key materials include wood for structural elements and finishes, fostering warmth; glass for expansive windows and skylights that enhance natural light; stone pavers for pathways that ensure accessibility; and soft textiles in furnishings to promote comfort.

### Interactive Design Features

The architectural design includes features such as sensory gardens that encourage outdoor engagement and pathways that invite exploration. Flexible interior spaces allow for adaptations according to varying needs of children and families while supporting a low environmental impact through energy-efficient systems and sustainable material sourcing.