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Reflective Water Elements Enhancing Tranquility in Hospice Design

Author:
Klaire Viduya
Reflective Water Elements Enhancing Tranquility in Hospice Design
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A reflective pond serves as the focal point for a tranquil hospice environment, connecting patients and families to nature while facilitating moments of contemplation and emotional support.
5 key facts about this project
01
Reflective pond enhances the sense of tranquility and encourages contemplation.
02
Shorter walls provide unobstructed views of the sky and surrounding garden.
03
The design facilitates a gradual transition from private moments to shared experiences.
04
Natural light is maximized through carefully positioned openings in the structure.
05
Meditative exit pathway guides visitors toward expansive outdoor gardens.

Channel is a design focused on creating a peaceful environment for individuals in hospice care. Located in a supportive setting that emphasizes emotional well-being, the design prioritizes calmness for both patients and their families. By connecting the interior spaces with nature, Channel enhances the experience of those facing life's final moments.

Entrance and Visual Connection

The entrance of the space features a shorter wall that provides visitors with early views of a symbolic garden beyond. This design choice creates a sense of openness and invites people into the area with a gentle welcome. Inside, a reflective pond is prominently placed, capturing light from above and expanding the sense of space. This simple design element encourages reflection and contemplation right upon entry.

Reflective Pond as a Central Element

The pond is a key feature in Channel. It not only contributes to the visual appeal but also symbolizes calmness and thoughtfulness. Water is known for its soothing qualities, and here it reflects the light, creating a dynamic and peaceful atmosphere. The gentle movement draws attention, allowing users to pause and gather their thoughts amidst the emotional intensity of their surroundings.

Meditative Exit Experience

The pathway leading from the room creates a thoughtful exit experience. It is designed to give people a quiet moment of pause before they leave. This exit feels significant, understanding the weight of the moment for both patients and family members. As visitors move along this pathway, they are guided toward the expansive gardens, symbolizing transition. It provides a gentle reminder of the world outside, helping to ease the journey forward.

Engagement with Nature

Throughout the design, there is a strong focus on connecting with nature. The use of shorter walls enhances panoramic views of the sky and gardens, making the surroundings feel bright and welcoming. This connection plays an important role in the emotional well-being of users, helping them feel grounded during a difficult time. Nature becomes more than just a backdrop; it is an integral part of the experience.

The careful use of light, water, and outdoor views creates a space that promotes comfort and reflection, supporting the needs of patients and their families during these valuable moments together.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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