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Circular Design Featuring Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Wood Panels for Holistic Healing Spaces

Authors:
Dominika Bednarek, Aleksandra Tarnowska
Circular Design Featuring Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Wood Panels for Holistic Healing Spaces

Project in-detail

Utilizing a circular layout with cross-laminated timber and charred wooden shingles, this hospice creates a nurturing environment that prioritizes family interaction and therapeutic access to nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Glazed walls enhance natural light and connect patients to the surrounding landscape.
02
Circular layout promotes accessibility and fosters family interactions throughout the facility.
03
Charred wooden shingles provide fire resistance and integrate with the natural environment.
04
Dedicated therapeutic gardens support alternative therapies alongside traditional care.
05
Convertible family rooms allow for flexible use and enhance patient visits.

The "Homely Hospice" project is an architectural undertaking designed to provide a comforting and supportive environment for terminally ill patients and their families. Located in a serene natural setting, the project prioritizes the integration of healthcare, emotional support, and family connection. By evoking a domestic ambiance, the hospice seeks to redefine the experience of end-of-life care, moving away from traditional clinical environments.

The architectural design incorporates natural elements, promoting well-being through the relationship between the built and natural environments. Key functional areas include private patient rooms, communal spaces for family gatherings, and dedicated therapeutic areas. The layout enhances movement throughout the space, facilitating interaction among families and caregivers, which is essential in hospice settings.

Designing for Comfort and Healing

One of the defining characteristics of the "Homely Hospice" is its circular layout, which facilitates easy navigation and encourages communication among patients and their visitors. This unique organization contrasts sharply with the linear designs typical of many healthcare facilities. The interior spaces are configured to foster family engagement, with private rooms equipped with convertible furniture to accommodate visitors.

The design also embraces significant use of glazing. Large windows and sliding glass doors maximize the influx of natural light while providing unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape. This connection to the outdoors not only enhances aesthetic quality but also serves therapeutic purposes, allowing patients to engage with their environment.

Integration of Nature and Therapy

The architectural design emphasizes nature's role in healing. Landscaped gardens and outdoor therapy areas are seamlessly integrated into the facility, creating spaces where patients can participate in activities that include interaction with therapy animals. These thoughtfully designed outdoor spaces promote mental well-being and physical activity, essential components of holistic care.

Materiality plays a crucial role in the project’s success. The use of sustainable materials such as wood, concrete, and extensive glazing contributes to the homely atmosphere. Wood offers warmth and comfort, while concrete lends structural stability and sound attenuation necessary for quiet reflection. Green roof systems enhance insulation, contributing to overall energy efficiency and environmental sustainability.

With its family-centric approach, unique spatial organization, and thoughtful material choices, the "Homely Hospice" stands apart from typical hospice facilities. The architectural design focuses on creating a meaningful and comfortable environment that prioritizes patient dignity and familial support.

For an in-depth understanding of the project’s architectural plans, sections, and details, it is encouraged to explore the project presentation. This examination will provide further insight into the innovative architectural ideas and design strategies applied throughout.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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