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Corten Steel Framework and Therapeutic Gardens Define a Contemporary Hospice Design

Authors:
Nóra Anna Kiss, Michele Castellana, Eszter Molnár
Corten Steel Framework and Therapeutic Gardens Define a Contemporary Hospice Design

Project in-detail

With a framework of Corten steel and extensive therapeutic gardens, the design creates a calming environment tailored for hospice care, emphasizing connections between nature and the well-being of patients and families.
5 key facts about this project
01
Corten steel exterior harmonizes with the natural landscape.
02
Extensive therapeutic gardens designed for patient interaction and reflection.
03
Patient rooms feature panoramic views of surrounding green spaces.
04
Charred wooden shingles enhance durability while providing a unique aesthetic.
05
Cross-laminated timber panels ensure rapid construction and sustainability.

The 'Tree of Life' project is designed as a hospice facility that focuses on providing comfort and support for individuals facing terminal illnesses. The architectural design emphasizes integration with natural elements, creating spaces that promote healing and tranquility. Nestled within a landscaped environment, this project serves both patients and their families, facilitating connections through thoughtfully organized spaces and amenities.

The design reflects the core philosophy behind hospice care, prioritizing emotional well-being and dignity for patients. Functionally, the building is structured around a central core, which houses essential service areas such as reception, dining, and administrative offices. Surrounding this core, patient rooms and communal spaces provide varying levels of privacy and interaction, catering to diverse patient and family needs.

Architectural Design and Materiality The architectural choices made in the 'Tree of Life' project are centered around sustainability and comfort. The extensive use of glass promotes transparency and helps dissolve the boundaries between indoor and outdoor environments, allowing for ample natural light and views of the adjoining gardens. Corten steel is prominently utilized for structural elements, offering durability and a weathered aesthetic that evokes the qualities of the cedar tree, a symbolic reference throughout the design. Wood is incorporated not only in structure but also in finishes, serving to create a warm atmosphere that reassures patients and visitors alike.

The landscaping complements the architectural framework, with gardens designed to serve as therapeutic retreats. Pathways and seating areas allow families to engage in outdoor activities or quiet reflection, fostering a sense of community while respecting individual needs.

Unique Design Approaches A distinctive aspect of the 'Tree of Life' project lies in its conceptual framework. The design mirrors the natural growth of a cedar tree, with the trunk representing the central support structure and branches symbolizing the individual patient rooms. This approach emphasizes interconnectivity among spaces while allowing patients to feel grounded in their surroundings.

The layout encourages interaction between patients and the natural landscape, providing numerous areas for relaxation and family engagement. The careful arrangement of spaces enhances the therapeutic experience, promoting connections with nature and each other, vital for emotional support in hospice care.

Overall, the architectural plans and sections of the 'Tree of Life' project exemplify how design can enrich the patient experience in hospice settings. For additional insights into the project’s specific elements, including architectural designs and ideas, exploring the project presentation will offer a comprehensive understanding of this thoughtful and purposeful design approach.

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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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