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Circular Care Spaces Featuring Natural Stone and Light-Filled Rooms in a Mediterranean Sanctuary

Authors:
Margot Parein, Margaux Prouvé
Circular Care Spaces Featuring Natural Stone and Light-Filled Rooms in a Mediterranean Sanctuary

Project in-detail

Emphasizing a circular layout and abundant natural light, this Mediterranean sanctuary integrates natural stone and therapeutic gardens to provide a compassionate environment for end-of-life care.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates a circular layout that encourages social interaction and a sense of community among residents.
02
Therapeutic gardens are integrated throughout the site, promoting healing through nature and providing tranquil spaces for contemplation.
03
Large glass panels offer unobstructed views of the Mediterranean landscape, enhancing the connection between indoors and outdoors.
04
Natural stone cladding provides both durability and a tactile quality that merges the hospice with its environment.
05
Flexibility in room configurations allows for adaptive uses to meet varied needs of patients and families.
The Mediterranean Hospice project represents a thoughtful exploration of architectural design tailored to the delicate needs of individuals at the end of their lives. This building is designed as a supportive sanctuary that integrates therapeutic spaces with an inviting atmosphere, prioritizing both the well-being of its users and a harmonious relationship with its surroundings. The architectural language speaks to the essence of care and community, embodying the fundamental principles of compassion in design.

Functionally, the Mediterranean Hospice serves as a multi-dimensional facility equipped to accommodate patients, their families, and caregivers. It features an array of carefully planned spaces that facilitate social interaction and personal reflection. The organization of the project is deliberate, with the ground floor providing communal areas that foster a sense of togetherness, while upper levels cater to privacy. This layered approach ensures that the hospice balances socialization needs with the essential need for solitude.

Among the critical components of the design is the circular layout that promotes connectivity. The central gathering area is particularly notable, serving as a focal point for community events and social gatherings. Surrounding this central hub are various therapy rooms, dining areas, and lounges that encourage interaction while being easily accessible. Such spatial organization not only enhances functionality but also instills a sense of belonging among users, which is crucial for emotional support during challenging times.

The choice of materials is integral to the overall aesthetic and performance of the building. Employing natural stone for exterior walls establishes a tactile relationship with the surrounding environment. Concrete elements provide structural integrity while reflecting a contemporary architectural style. Additionally, the use of wood accents in window frames and balconies introduces warmth and homeliness, contributing to a comforting atmosphere. Expansive glazing throughout the design is particularly significant, as it facilitates abundant natural light and fosters visual connections with the serene views outside, thereby engaging users with nature as part of their experience.

Exploring the landscape surrounding the hospice reveals another layer of the architectural thought process. Spaces are designed to blend seamlessly with Mediterranean flora, creating a therapeutic garden that encourages walking, contemplation, and communal gardening. Providing pathways and designated seating areas within these gardens enhances the connection to nature, transforming the outdoor environment into a refuge that actively supports the emotional and psychological well-being of both patients and visitors.

Uniquely, the Mediterranean Hospice stands out due to its combination of circular design principles and adaptive spaces. This design choice minimizes the conventional linear progression typically found in healthcare facilities, embodying a more inviting and less clinical approach. Rooms can be adjusted or repurposed to meet varying needs, fostering a responsive environment. Moreover, the facility embraces sustainable practices through material selection and site planning, which underscores a commitment to environmental responsibility.

The Mediterranean Hospice serves not just as a structure, but as a holistic environment that prioritizes comfort, dignity, and support. Each element, from the spatial organization to material selection and landscaping, works cohesively to create a nurturing atmosphere suitable for its purpose. For those interested in understanding this project further, it is recommended to explore the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs that detail the thoughtful ideas behind this impactful hospice. Insight into these elements offers a deeper appreciation for the architecture that fosters compassionate care in a tranquil setting.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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