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Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Light Shape a Healing Centre for Lung Cancer Care

Authors:
Artur Stępniak, Alina Grabiec
Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Light Shape a Healing Centre for Lung Cancer Care

Project in-detail

Employing charred wooden shingles and strategically placed natural light, the centre creates a serene environment that fosters healing and community for individuals undergoing lung cancer treatment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles to enhance durability while providing a distinct aesthetic.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for structural strength and sustainability in construction.
03
Features an innovative bent A-frame design that enhances natural light distribution throughout the building.
04
Includes multiple landscaped courtyards that promote interaction with nature and support mental well-being.
05
Offers flexible interior spaces that can be adapted for various therapeutic and social functions.
The architectural project at hand, the Lung Cancer Care Centre, represents a thoughtful approach to designing healthcare environments by focusing on healing through therapeutic spaces. The centre is conceived as a sanctuary for patients undergoing treatment for lung cancer, combining practical functionality with a soothing atmosphere that promotes well-being. The design seamlessly integrates with its surrounding environment while prioritizing the needs of its users.

Functionally, this project serves as a multi-faceted facility that accommodates both individual and communal needs. It features a range of spaces including private patient rooms, communal areas for group support, and flexible spaces that can adapt to different activities. This intentional organization allows for personal reflection and the nurturing of social connections, which are both critical for patients undergoing the cancer care process.

A distinctive aspect of the design is the emphasis on integrating the natural environment into the architecture. Courtyards and patios are strategically placed throughout the layout, providing open-air spaces that encourage outdoor interaction while ensuring privacy. This design choice reflects a broader understanding of how natural elements can contribute positively to the mental and emotional health of patients.

Materiality plays a crucial role in the overall aesthetic and functionality of the Lung Cancer Care Centre. The project employs a carefully selected palette of materials that include oriented strand board for structural components, local timber for warmth and connection to the site, and high-performance insulation for comfort and energy efficiency. The use of natural materials helps create a pleasant and inviting atmosphere, which is vital for a healthcare setting.

The architectural arrangement promotes an intuitive flow between various areas. Key zones are interconnected in a non-linear manner, allowing patients and visitors to navigate the space with ease. This layout not only enhances the overall user experience but also fosters a sense of community within the centre. By creating distinct yet interconnected spaces, the design encourages socialization while respecting the need for solitude.

One of the unique design approaches taken in this project is the balance between openness and privacy. This is reflected in the configuration of communal areas that are designed to encourage interaction while still allowing for moments of seclusion. For instance, support rooms are placed within sight of landscaped areas, linking patients to the restorative qualities of nature even while engaging in group sessions. This thoughtful placement reinforces the idea that healthcare environments should facilitate both togetherness and personal reflection.

Additionally, the architectural design incorporates elements that enhance sensory experiences. Large windows allow an abundance of natural light into the interior spaces, fostering a feeling of openness. Furthermore, the incorporation of greenery not only adds visual appeal but also contributes to a calming ambiance, key in a facility designed for healing. Sound and light are carefully considered in the design, creating environments that are conducive to calm and peace.

An exploration of this project will reveal additional layers of detail through its architectural plans, sections, and various design elements. These provide invaluable insights into the careful consideration that shapes each facet of the Lung Cancer Care Centre. Furthermore, examining the architectural designs and ideas behind this project can inspire new approaches to creating supportive environments within healthcare architecture. For those interested in understanding the nuance of such thoughtful design, reviewing the project presentation will offer a comprehensive view of its many facets and will illustrate how architecture can effectively respond to the needs of its users.
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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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