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Healing Space Crafted with Concrete and Natural Wood in a Community-Focused Center

Authors:
Tatiana Kaisidou, Vasiliki Katsana
Healing Space Crafted with Concrete and Natural Wood in a Community-Focused Center

Project in-detail

Constructed with a blend of concrete and natural wood, the center incorporates extensive outdoor spaces and therapeutic gardens, providing a supportive environment for individuals and families affected by lung cancer.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a 4x4 meter grid system for efficient spatial organization.
02
Features extensive outdoor therapeutic gardens interconnected with indoor spaces.
03
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for durability and aesthetic contrast.
04
Designed with large glass surfaces to maximize natural light and views.
05
Includes a communal kitchen to foster social interaction among users.

## Project Overview

Located in Krakow, Poland, the facility is designed as a social center for individuals diagnosed with lung cancer, alongside their families and support networks. Situated in an area affected by significant air pollution, the structure aims to create a supportive environment that addresses the community's urgent need for healing spaces. The architectural intent is to reduce the negative impacts of environmental factors on respiratory health through carefully organized recreational and therapeutic areas.

### Spatial Strategy and Functional Layout

The center employs a 4x4 meter grid system that guides both spatial organization and aesthetic coherence across two levels. This grid facilitates a logical flow between functional areas while promoting interaction among users. Important spaces include a ground-floor reception area that welcomes visitors, a play zone for families, and a gym that supports physical therapy. An open-air kitchen and patio emphasize social engagement and relaxation. The first floor features a library for quiet reflection, a cinema for entertainment, and consulting rooms designed for healthcare professionals to meet with patients in a discreet manner.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

The material choices for the building reflect a focus on both aesthetics and sustainability. A concrete frame ensures structural stability, while wood cladding introduces warmth and a natural feel. Extensive use of glass maximizes natural light and provides views of the surrounding greenery. Additionally, wooden blinds offer control over light and privacy. The combination of wooden and concrete flooring establishes a balance between durability and comfort. The selection of materials aligns with eco-conscious practices, promoting sustainability throughout the project's lifecycle.

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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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