Architecture project // Horticultural Therapy Space Featuring Rammed Earth and Wood Accents for Holistic Care

Horticultural Therapy Space Featuring Rammed Earth and Wood Accents for Holistic Care

Author:

Tanaya Choudhary

Integrating horticultural therapy with rammed earth construction and warm wood accents, this hospice redefines end-of-life care by fostering a deep connection with nature and community engagement.

5 key facts about this project

Rammed earth walls provide natural thermal mass and reduce energy consumption.

Community gardening spaces empower residents through horticultural therapy.

Extensive use of wood emphasizes warmth and connection to nature.

Large windows ensure abundant natural light and visual connection with the landscape.

The design promotes accessibility and mobility throughout all areas for residents.

General keywords

hospice healthcare maharashtra community nature therapy sustainability wellness gardening residential

Project specific keywords

rammed earth horticultural therapy natural light community gardens private spaces accessible design thermal mass farming integration wood accents open layout

## Architectural Analysis Report: BLISS - Hospice for the Terminally Ill

### Overview

Located in Dhapewada, near Nagpur, Maharashtra, the BLISS hospice project presents a fresh perspective on end-of-life care, prioritizing holistic healing through connections with nature and agriculture. The design aims to redefine the perception of hospice spaces, moving away from their traditional role as somber waiting rooms to vibrant environments that encourage engagement with life. This approach emphasizes the well-being of terminally ill patients by fostering emotional support and community interaction.

### Site Integration and Layout

The architectural layout of the hospice is strategically organized to harmonize with the existing farmland, reinforcing its connection to the natural environment. The design employs organic forms that resonate with the surrounding landscape, instilling a sense of balance and tranquility. Ground and first floor plans incorporate distinct spaces for private and communal activities, ensuring that residents have the privacy needed for personal reflection while also promoting social interactions through shared areas.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

The selection of materials is oriented toward sustainability and local resource utilization. Key components include rammed earth, which enhances thermal performance and deepens the connection to the land; wood, used for both structural integrity and aesthetic warmth; and extensive glazing, which invites natural light and fosters visual engagement with the outdoors. This strategic use of materials not only contributes to energy efficiency but also ensures a serene environment conducive to healing.

### Therapeutic Outdoor and Community Spaces

Central to the design are spaces that promote therapeutic engagement with the outdoors. The integration of horticultural areas encourages patients to participate in gardening, fostering a sense of purpose and emotional connection to their surroundings. Additionally, community areas such as the library utilize large windows to enhance cognitive and emotional stimulation, linking residents with the natural beauty of the landscape. The architectural approach thus emphasizes the importance of natural light, ventilation, and an indoor-outdoor relationship, all of which contribute significantly to the overall experience of those within the hospice.