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Curvilinear Sanctuary Crafted from Concrete and Glass for Healing and Reflection

Authors:
Lim Dabin, Han Seongju, Kim Ijin, Yu Hyewon
Curvilinear Sanctuary Crafted from Concrete and Glass for Healing and Reflection

Project in-detail

Crafted with curvilinear forms and natural light, this concrete and glass sanctuary provides a reflective space designed to support healing for parents experiencing grief.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curvilinear architectural forms create a fluid environment that promotes emotional comfort.
02
Extensive use of glass maximizes natural light while enhancing visual connectivity with nature.
03
Dedicated spaces for music and meditation support diverse healing practices.
04
Strategic placement of water elements fosters tranquility and reflection throughout the sanctuary.
05
The design prioritizes sustainability through the integration of minimal-impact materials.
The project, titled "The Womb," is an architectural design focused on creating a supportive environment for parents who are grieving the loss of a child, particularly those mourning children up to the age of twelve. This architectural endeavor translates the sensitive themes of grief and healing into physical form, establishing a sanctuary that serves both as a space for reflection and as a place for communal healing. The design employs natural elements, thoughtful materials, and deliberate spatial arrangements to foster a sense of security and comfort.

The central concept revolves around the metaphor of a womb, encapsulating the protective and nurturing qualities associated with that imagery. The architecture offers a series of interconnected spaces, each designed to facilitate various forms of interaction, introspection, and emotional support.

Spatial Arrangement and Key Areas

The interior spaces are thoughtfully organized to maximize comfort and usability. Notable areas include:

1. **Meditation Room and Small Beach:** This area is intended to evoke calm, featuring soft surfaces and possibly water elements that create a serene ambiance conducive to introspection and meditation. Enhanced light dynamics here further support emotional introspection.

2. **Piano Room:** Designed as a space for artistic expression, the piano room serves not only as a venue for music but also as a contemplative area where parents can engage in creative output as a means of coping with grief.

3. **Living Room:** This communal space encourages shared experiences and interaction among bereaved families. Its design promotes an inviting atmosphere, with ample natural light that plays a pivotal role in enhancing the emotional connectivity amongst occupants.

4. **Bedroom:** The bedroom serves as a personal sanctuary, allowing visitors to retreat and reflect in privacy. The design promotes softness in materials and lighting, reinforcing a sense of comfort and reassurance.

5. **Kitchen and Dining Area:** This space emphasizes nourishment and social connection, reinforcing bonds among those who are sharing the grieving process. The design supports communal activities, helping to create a sense of togetherness.

Unique Design Approaches

This project distinguishes itself through its commitment to creating an emotionally resonant environment. The metaphorical interpretation of a womb informs not just the overall design language, but also the materials selected for the construction. Concrete may be utilized for its smooth and organic forms, while glass elements enable a seamless interaction between the interior and the surrounding environment.

The architectural design integrates light as a focal feature, intentionally utilizing natural light to facilitate various emotional states. The interplay of light serves multiple functions: it represents hope, evokes memories, and creates a calming atmosphere essential for recovery. Each spatial area is carefully designed to make the most of natural light dynamics, further enhancing the overall experience of each room.

The intention behind "The Womb" is to challenge conventional architectural approaches by prioritizing emotional health alongside functionality. This project serves as a potential model for future architectural designs focused on emotional well-being, emphasizing that spaces can be crafted to address specific human conditions and experiences.

For a more comprehensive exploration of "The Womb," including architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural ideas, we encourage you to delve deeper into the project presentation. This will provide further insights into the design's innovative approaches and spatial arrangements, solidifying its role as a significant contribution to architecture aimed at fostering emotional healing.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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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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