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Curved Walls and Natural Stone Integrate in a Tranquil Therapeutic Residence

Authors:
Young jin Yang, Jin hyun Kyoung
Curved Walls and Natural Stone Integrate in a Tranquil Therapeutic Residence

Project in-detail

With its flowing curved walls and abundant natural light, this residence harmoniously integrates therapy spaces and a serene garden environment to foster mental wellness for its occupants and clients.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curved walls enhance spatial flow and create a calming atmosphere.
02
Extensive use of glass maximizes natural light while framing views of the garden.
03
Dedicated outdoor therapy spaces foster a connection between nature and healing.
04
Natural stone elements are seamlessly integrated into both the interior and exterior.
05
Lightweight fibers used in construction allow for dynamic light patterns within the space.
The project titled "Passage of Sense" demonstrates a thoughtful exploration of architecture focused on promoting mental well-being in a residential context. Designed for a psychiatrist couple, this project embodies the intersection of living space and therapeutic environment, resulting in a cohesive design that prioritizes psychological comfort and connection with nature.

At its essence, "Passage of Sense" represents a shift in how architectural spaces can be leveraged for emotional healing and daily living. The design integrates therapy areas with residential spaces, allowing the couple not only to dwell within their home but also to provide mental health services to clients in an inviting and soothing environment. This dual function highlights the project's unique capability to blur the boundaries between personal and professional lives, creating a space that is both a home and a sanctuary for mental health.

The architectural approach emphasizes natural light as a fundamental aspect of the design. Extensive use of glass allows for the permeation of daylight, enhancing the occupants' connection to the outdoors and the changing atmosphere throughout the day. The dynamic interplay of light and shadow plays a crucial role in the architectural experience, creating a tranquil ambiance that contributes to the therapeutic aims of the project. The design includes various apertures and strategically positioned windows that frame views of the garden, promoting an ongoing relationship between the interior spaces and the surrounding landscape.

Materiality is another cornerstone of this architectural endeavor. The project incorporates a palette that includes concrete for its structural robustness, natural stone for an organic aesthetic, and lightweight fibers that contribute to the fluidity of the curved walls. These materials have been chosen not only for their functional properties but also for their tactile qualities, which enhance the sensory experience of users within the space. The thoughtful selection of materials reflects the design’s ethos, merging durability with a softness that is essential for a healing habitat.

The garden serves as an integral element of the overall design, with outdoor areas designed to complement the indoor environment. This relationship between internal and external spaces is significant, as it provides opportunities for therapeutic sessions to take place in nature, further promoting feelings of well-being. The integration of greenery throughout the project not only fosters a calming atmosphere but also aligns with the principles of biophilic design, which emphasizes the connection between humans and nature. The garden is envisioned as a living environment that evolves with the seasons, reinforcing the therapeutic framework of the project.

Unique design approaches abound in "Passage of Sense." The flowing, curved walls create an inviting and warm interior while fostering a sense of movement and exploration within the space. This design choice is intentional; it encourages occupants to interact with their surroundings, promoting mindfulness and self-reflection. The spatial configuration is deliberately organized to provide areas of varying intimacy and openness, allowing for both solitary reflection and social interaction.

The overall architectural design fosters an atmosphere of mindfulness and tranquility. The thoughtful placement of therapy spaces within the home encourages a holistic approach to healing, allowing therapy to feel like a natural extension of daily life rather than a clinical obligation. This atmosphere is further enhanced by the careful consideration of light and materials, which together create a cohesive and harmonious living experience.

In summary, "Passage of Sense" serves as a profound illustration of how architecture can be employed to enhance mental wellness. Its integration of residential life with therapeutic function, alongside the careful attention to materiality and light, creates a unique project that stands as a model for future designs in similar contexts. For those interested in exploring this project further, the architectural plans, sections, and immersive design details offer valuable insights into the intent and execution of this thoughtful architectural endeavor.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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