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Charred Wooden Shingles and Healing Gardens Unite in a Holistic Healthcare Facility

Author:
Lapo Batistini
Charred Wooden Shingles and Healing Gardens Unite in a Holistic Healthcare Facility

Project in-detail

Charred wooden shingles and expansive therapeutic gardens create a nurturing environment in a healthcare facility designed to support terminally ill patients and their families.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for aesthetic appeal and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates expansive therapeutic gardens designed specifically for patient relaxation and reflection.
03
Features an open-plan layout eliminating traditional corridors to enhance interaction among users.
04
Constructed with cross-laminated timber panels for sustainability and structural integrity.
05
Includes flexible-use rooms dedicated to art therapy and family gatherings, fostering emotional support.
The architectural project Fiorile represents a thoughtful integration of design and function within the context of a healthcare facility tailored for terminally ill patients and their families. Nestled in the tranquil landscape of Tuscany, this facility embodies an intentional approach that prioritizes healing and human connection. Designed to counter the often sterile and isolating environment of traditional healthcare settings, Fiorile seeks to create a nurturing atmosphere conducive to emotional support and wellness.

At the heart of the project is the recognition of the pivotal role that environment plays in the experience of patients and their families. The facility functions as a holistic support center where visitors can find solace and connection during challenging times. Its design promotes ease of interaction among users while simultaneously ensuring private spaces for reflection and personal retreat.

The architectural language of Fiorile dispenses with conventional corridors in favor of open-plan spaces that facilitate intuitive movement and interaction. This layout cultivates a sense of togetherness while helping to combat feelings of loneliness that often accompany terminal illness. In a similar vein, the use of expansive glass openings throughout the facility serves to maximize natural light and visual connections to the surrounding landscape, significantly enhancing the ambiance of the interiors. Through these elements, Fiorile integrates the therapeutic benefits of nature into the built environment, allowing patients to engage with their surroundings in a meaningful way.

The careful selection of materials further contributes to the facility's mission. Concrete forms the robust structure of the building, providing longevity and stability, while wood introduces a warm, inviting presence to the interior spaces. Local stone is also utilized, which not only complements the natural landscape but reinforces a sense of belonging within the environment. Collectively, these materials are chosen not only for their functional attributes but for their ability to create a comforting atmosphere that supports the emotional needs of users.

Fiorile is also notable for its inclusion of therapeutic gardens and communal spaces. These outdoor areas are purposefully designed to encourage relaxation and reflection, offering a serene backdrop for both patients and their families. The facility incorporates flexible-use rooms for various therapeutic activities, including art therapy and shared family experiences, which play a robust role in emotional well-being. A chapel and meditation areas further emphasize the project’s commitment to addressing the spiritual dimensions of care.

Sustainability is another critical aspect of Fiorile’s design, with features such as green roofs and strategically placed windows contributing to energy efficiency. This not only minimizes the facility's ecological footprint but also enhances the indoor climate for users, showcasing a commitment to responsible and considerate architectural practices.

Throughout the design, attention to the cognitive and emotional needs of patients is paramount. By utilizing color, natural light, and carefully curated spatial arrangements, the facility conveys a sense of safety and tranquility that is essential during challenging times. The entire project exemplifies a comprehensive understanding of health and wellness in architecture, moving beyond the mere functional aspects of building to emphasize the importance of emotional and psychological support.

As you explore the specifics of the Fiorile project, consider delving deeper into the architectural plans, sections, and designs that illustrate these unique approaches. The project’s thoughtful integration of space, material, and natural elements invites further reflection on contemporary architectural ideas within healthcare settings, emphasizing the potential of design to positively impact human experiences in profound ways.
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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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