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Charred Wooden Shingles and Tempered Glass Envelop a Vertical Healthcare Sanctuary

Authors:
Yinglei Li, Yifei Mi, Tong Li, Hamza Yaseen
Charred Wooden Shingles and Tempered Glass Envelop a Vertical Healthcare Sanctuary

Project in-detail

Blending charred wooden shingles with a striking façade of tempered glass, this innovative healthcare facility redefines urban medical spaces by offering a versatile sanctuary that adapts seamlessly to community needs.
5 key facts about this project
01
Employs charred wooden shingles for enhanced fire resistance and aesthetic appeal.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels to promote sustainability and reduce carbon footprint.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that maximizes natural light and improves spatial dynamics.
04
Integrates community spaces that are adaptable for emergency use, fostering resilience.
05
Incorporates a vertical stacking layout to optimize land use in a dense urban environment.
The Vertical Refuge project in the heart of Shanghai presents a thoughtful melding of architecture and urban healthcare, embodying both innovative design and functional adaptability. This architectural endeavor represents a shift in the approach to medical facilities, focusing on the importance of community engagement and emergency preparedness within urban environments. It is envisioned as a multi-functional health complex that serves not only as a medical facility but also as a refuge for the surrounding community during crises.

Functionally, the Vertical Refuge is designed to cater to a variety of healthcare services while remaining flexible enough to adapt to unforeseen circumstances. The building embraces a mixed-use philosophy, featuring health centers, community spaces, and cultural facilities layered vertically. The arrangement of these spaces facilitates easy access and navigation for patients and visitors, thus enhancing their overall experience within the medical environment. Specifically, lower levels are dedicated to general health services, while specialized facilities occupy the upper stories. This tiered layout supports efficient emergency response capabilities, enabling the building to shift its operations in case of urgent needs.

Key components of the Vertical Refuge include spacious atriums that foster interaction and connection among users. These central gathering spaces counteract the clinical atmosphere often found in traditional healthcare settings, promoting a sense of community and warmth. Natural light floods these areas, contributing to an uplifting environment that is crucial for both patient well-being and staff productivity.

A unique aspect of the project lies in its architectural approach to flexibility. The concept of 'void space' is thoughtfully integrated, allowing the facility to transform based on current demands. This innovative use of space is not only a practical response to different operational needs but also reflects a broader understanding of how architecture can serve dual purposes. By considering both medical and communal functions, the design actively engages with the surrounding urban landscape, fostering a sense of belonging and support for local residents.

In terms of material selection, the Vertical Refuge employs a careful balance of aesthetics and functionality. The use of durable aluminum panels and low-iron glass for the facade ensures that the building is not just visually appealing but also energy-efficient. These materials are integral to achieving performance standards while enhancing the overall architectural expression. The concrete and steel structural components offer necessary stability and resilience, crucial in a densely populated urban context where safety is paramount.

The sustainable design aspects of this project further illustrate its innovative approach to architecture. By optimizing natural light and implementing energy-efficient systems, the Vertical Refuge minimizes its ecological footprint. The strategically designed facade serves not only as a barrier against the elements but also as a dynamic feature that responds to the sun's path. This dual function enhances user comfort while maintaining the building's aesthetic integrity.

Exploring the architectural plans and sections reveals how the careful organization of spaces supports both functionality and user experience. The thoughtful flow between different areas, including public and private zones, emphasizes accessibility while respecting privacy needs. These architectural designs provide a clear understanding of how each space is utilized and interconnected, offering a comprehensive view of the project's intent.

In summary, the Vertical Refuge stands as a testament to the evolving nature of healthcare architecture, bridging essential medical services and community well-being within an urban setting. Its innovative design approaches not only prioritize healthcare delivery but also emphasize the role of architecture in cultivating resilient communities. For readers interested in a deeper exploration of the project, architectural designs, and further insights, engaging with the detailed project presentation will provide a comprehensive understanding of this unique endeavor.
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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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