The architecture of the project "Home for Us" articulates a refined approach to healthcare design within the context of a hospice facility located in Changwon, South Korea. The project's primary function is to provide a supportive environment for patients and families, emphasizing community, well-being, and connectivity with nature. Through careful consideration of spatial organization and materiality, the project aims to redefine traditional healthcare spaces by fostering social interaction alongside individual healing processes.

The design incorporates distinct zones that serve various functions. Patient rooms are thoughtfully arranged to ensure both privacy and access to natural light, integrating expansive windows that connect the indoors with outdoor gardens. The communal areas, including lounges and dining spaces, promote interaction while maintaining a sense of comfort and security. Gathering spaces, such as the A5 Gathering Room, are strategically placed to facilitate social activities, nurturing a sense of belonging among patients and their families.

Material selection plays a pivotal role in the design outcome. Face brick confers warmth to the façade, creating an inviting appearance. Concrete is employed for its structural capabilities, providing necessary robustness while allowing for open, fluid interiors. Traditional Korean wood is used for interior finishes, enhancing the tactile experience within the spaces. Glass elements are abundant, allowing light to flood the interiors and blurring boundaries between inside and outside, which is crucial for fostering a connection with the surrounding landscape.

Unique Aspects of the Design Approach

The project distinguishes itself from conventional healthcare facilities through a foundational commitment to nature and community. The integration of internal gardens creates tranquil environments that serve as restorative spaces for patients, promoting a more holistic approach to care. Features such as the inner garden and cypress garden are planned to not only serve aesthetic purposes but also contribute to the therapeutic environment.

Furthermore, the design incorporates local cultural elements, including a Maru, a traditional raised wooden floor that connects the new building to its historical context. This element not only enhances the aesthetic quality of the space but also evokes cultural familiarity, creating a sense of place for residents and visitors.

The layout prioritizes flexible use of spaces, allowing areas to adapt to different functions throughout the day, which contributes to the overall efficiency of the hospice. This versatility supports the dynamic nature of patient care while reinforcing the importance of community interaction.

Holistic Wellness in Spatial Arrangement

The spatial organization within "Home for Us" reflects a keen understanding of the need for both solitude and community in a healthcare setting. By design, private patient areas offer comfort and serenity, while communal spaces encourage socialization and support systems among patients, families, and staff. The careful distribution of these spaces ensures that interactions can occur organically, helping to alleviate feelings of isolation commonly associated with healthcare environments.

The incorporation of pause spaces throughout the facility allows for reflection and tranquility, contributing to the overall well-being of visitors and staff. Each patient room features a dedicated balcony that extends the living space outdoors, reinforcing the connection to nature and providing essential personal outdoor areas.

Explore the project presentation further to review architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural ideas that illustrate the thoughtful design processes involved in creating a supportive hospice facility. Understanding these elements will provide deeper insight into the architectural design and its commitment to enhancing the healthcare experience.