Get inspired!

16,979 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Oxygen Capsules and Water Walls in a Tranquil Healing Environment Designed for Lung Cancer Care

Authors:
MICHAŁ HATTWICH, KONRAD ZMYSŁO
Oxygen Capsules and Water Walls in a Tranquil Healing Environment Designed for Lung Cancer Care

Project in-detail

Incorporating oxygen capsules and a central water wall, this healing environment fosters recovery for lung cancer patients through a carefully designed landscape that promotes tranquility and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Oxygen capsules provide a private space for patient relaxation and meditation.
02
The central water wall enhances acoustic comfort and promotes a calming atmosphere.
03
Green roofs contribute to sustainability and biodiversity in the urban setting.
04
Natural timber is utilized extensively in furnishings to create a warm environment.
05
Dedicated pathways facilitate seamless movement between therapeutic and communal spaces.
The Waterwall Garden is a contemporary healthcare architectural project developed for the Lung Cancer Care Center in Kraków, Poland. This design transcends traditional hospital frameworks by integrating therapeutic landscapes and functionality, prioritizing patient well-being and recovery alongside essential healthcare services.

Central to the design is a harmonious relationship between architecture and nature. The project incorporates a main park square, a post-treatment recovery center, and a water wall patio. These areas are meticulously arranged to facilitate movement and social interaction, supporting both private and communal experiences. The use of natural materials and elements is deliberate, reflecting an understanding of the psychological benefits of greenery and open spaces in medical environments.

Patient access and comfort are prioritized with strategically designed pathways that lead throughout the garden. The inclusion of commercial spaces such as a café enhances accessibility and encourages use by local communities, fostering a sense of belonging.

Innovative Design Approaches

A unique aspect of the Waterwall Garden is the integration of oxygen capsules designed for individual relaxation and meditation. These enclosed spaces offer patients a tranquil area away from clinical settings, promoting mental well-being through personal reflection and rejuvenation. The central water wall serves as both a visual and auditory focal point, contributing to a calming environment through the soothing sound of flowing water.

Sustainability is another key focus of this architectural project. The use of green roofs not only insulates the building but also provides additional green space for plant life and wildlife. This choice demonstrates forward-thinking design, balancing ecological responsibility with urban healthcare needs.

Architectural Elements and Materiality

The material selection is intentional, aimed at creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Glass is prominently used for facades, enhancing natural light and visual connectivity within the space. Concrete contributes to structural stability, while natural timber is utilized in decking and furnishings, reinforcing the organic aesthetic of the garden.

The color palette, dominated by soft greens and warm yellows, supports a serene environment conducive to healing. By integrating these elements, the Waterwall Garden exemplifies a comprehensive understanding of how architecture can influence patient recovery and overall health.

To gain a deeper understanding of the project, readers are encouraged to explore the detailed architectural plans, sections, and design ideas presented within the project overview. These elements provide further insights into the innovative approaches used in the Waterwall Garden, revealing the thoughtful design underlying this healthcare facility.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16,979 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy