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Exploring Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Light in a Tranquil Hospice Setting

Author:
Paulina Pluto-prądzińska
Exploring Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Light in a Tranquil Hospice Setting

Project in-detail

Charred wooden shingles envelop a structure designed to maximize natural light and foster a sense of tranquility, creating an environment tailored for the care of terminally ill patients.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance fire resistance while providing a unique aesthetic.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to sustainable construction and thermal efficiency.
03
The bent A-frame design maximizes daylight and creates dynamic interior spaces.
04
Therapeutic gardens are integrated into the layout for healing connections to nature.
05
Flexible common areas allow for varied patient and family interactions.

# Analytical Report on the Architectural Design of a Hospice Facility

## Overview

Located within a serene landscape, the hospice facility is designed to cater to the needs of terminally ill patients, promoting an environment conducive to healing and comfort. The intent is to create a space that supports emotional and physical well-being through a design that reflects tranquility and a connection to nature. This facility employs architectural forms and spatial arrangements that aim to enhance patient experiences by integrating healing elements throughout the layout.

### Spatial Organization

The layout of the hospice is organized into distinct functional areas to cater to various needs:

- **Patient Care Zones**: Patient rooms are designed for privacy and comfort, maximizing natural light and views of the surrounding landscape. Open and accessible layouts facilitate smooth movement for both patients and caregivers.

- **Therapeutic Areas**: Areas such as the Gait Therapy Zone and communal dining spaces promote therapeutic practices and enhance social interactions among residents.

- **Community Spaces**: Inclusive facilities, including lecture halls and libraries, focus on engagement and education, enriching the experiences of patients and their families.

- **Landscaped Outdoor Areas**: Walking paths and gardens are integrated into the site to connect the building with nature, further enhancing the healing atmosphere.

## Material Choices and Sustainability

The selection of materials carefully balances functionality and aesthetic expression. Key materials include:

- **Wood**: Treated timber is prominently featured in facade elements, providing a warm and inviting atmosphere.

- **Glass**: Extensive use of glass enhances natural light throughout the facility and fosters an open environment.

- **Concrete**: This durable material serves structural purposes and defines pathways, contrasting with the more inviting wooden elements.

- **Stone**: Used in landscaping and pathways, stone accents ground the design in the natural environment.

The facility incorporates sustainable design principles by utilizing locally sourced materials and implementing energy-efficient building systems. The orientation of windows and strategic roof overhangs minimizes reliance on mechanical heating and cooling, supporting eco-friendly architectural practices.

## Design Characteristics

Several unique features distinguish the hospice facility:

- **Connection to Nature**: The design facilitates easy access to gardens and outdoor therapeutic areas, blending indoor and outdoor spaces.

- **Adaptive Space Design**: Layouts are configured to accommodate the evolving needs of patients, promoting versatility in care.

- **Focus on Human Experience**: The integration of natural light, quiet zones, and communal areas prioritizes emotional well-being, creating a comforting atmosphere.

- **Architectural Form**: The wave-like structures and varied roofing contribute to an engaging visual design while offering functional benefits.

The design of this hospice reflects a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted aspects of terminal care, aiming to enhance quality of life for patients and their families through thoughtful architectural solutions.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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Chair
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Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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