The Care Café is located along the water's edge in northeast Indiana, designed to create a supportive environment for hospice care. It focuses on the needs of patients and their caregivers, aiming to provide comfort and accessibility. The design seeks to normalize the hospice experience and foster connections within the community, while also addressing the challenges faced by families during this difficult time.

Design Intent

The layout of the Care Café uses a cross-axial zoning strategy. This allows users to easily move between public and private spaces and navigate from outpatient to inpatient care. Such a design approach supports the varying needs of families and patients, creating an environment that is both functional and calming. It enhances comfort, which is essential when dealing with illness and caregiving.

Key Architectural Features

A notable aspect of the Care Café is the cantilevered balcony, which serves as a platform for hot air balloon rides. This feature provides caregivers with a chance to take a break and gain perspective from above. It emphasizes the importance of moments of respite, allowing caregivers to recharge while still being close to their loved ones.

Floating Care Pavilion

An innovative floating care pavilion serves as a unique space for counseling. Located on the water, it merges the therapeutic effects of nature with the counseling experience. The central garden enhances this connection, providing views of the adjacent lake and peaceful surroundings. This garden promotes relaxation, benefiting both patients and their caregivers during their time in the facility.

Activity Zones

The lower-level dock offers areas for relaxation and functions as a starting point for counseling sessions in the floating pavilions around the site. These pavilions provide families with dedicated spaces to take breaks from caregiving duties while ensuring that patients receive continuous care.

The design prioritizes user experience, creating spaces that facilitate both social interaction and private moments. It establishes the Care Café as a welcoming refuge in the community.