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Retractable Rooftop and Sustainable Timber Create Mobile Palliative Care Units

Authors:
Hosam Habib, Susanne Siepl-coates, Dipen Patel, Andrea Regnier
Retractable Rooftop and Sustainable Timber Create Mobile Palliative Care Units

Project in-detail

A retractable rooftop combined with sustainable timber construction offers a mobile solution for palliative care, enhancing the experience of terminal patients while promoting a seamless connection to nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Retractable rooftop design allows for outdoor connectivity and exposure to nature.
02
Constructed with cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and eco-friendliness.
03
Charred wooden shingles provide enhanced durability and weather resistance.
04
Flexible interior spaces adapt to diverse patient needs and activities.
05
Integrated technology supports personalized care and enhances patient autonomy.
The Mobile Hospice project serves as a novel approach to providing palliative care through an adaptable architectural design. It integrates the principles of mobility, comfort, and personalized care, establishing a new paradigm in the experience of terminal illness. The primary focus of the project is to create a supportive environment that enhances the quality of life for patients by allowing them to engage with their surroundings rather than confining them to traditional hospice settings.

The architectural design emphasizes a versatile layout that accommodates both indoor and outdoor experiences. The incorporation of a retractable roof enables interaction with the natural environment, promoting a therapeutic connection to nature that is often absent in traditional facilities. The project is equipped with adaptable spaces that facilitate communal interactions while maintaining privacy and comfort for individuals and their families.

Unique Design Approaches and Features

One of the key distinctive features of the Mobile Hospice is its flexible spatial configurations. The design includes areas that can transform based on needs, allowing for various activities such as social gatherings, individual reflection, or family time. By integrating open-air lounges alongside enclosed spaces, the design fosters engagement with nature while providing a secure environment for care.

Another significant aspect is the integration of technology to enhance personal care. The designed mobile care unit allows for personalized experiences through a digital interface, providing options for customization based on the patient's preferences. This approach encourages active involvement in care decisions, a crucial aspect of enhancing psychological well-being.

Integration of Materiality and Functionality

The project employs a careful selection of materials, focusing on sustainability and comfort. Lightweight metals provide structural integrity, while sustainable timber offers warmth and a natural ambiance. Glass elements ensure an abundance of natural light while creating a sense of openness. These choices are made with the intention of creating an inviting atmosphere that is reflective of the project's core principles.

Furthermore, the architectural design includes specialized furniture, such as ergonomic lounge chairs, designed to support comfort and accessibility for patients with varying mobility levels. The overall layout encompasses functional areas, including a nurse station, kitchenette, and restrooms, ensuring that all necessary elements for care and interaction are available within the mobile unit.

The Mobile Hospice project represents a shift in how architecture can influence the experience of end-of-life care. By prioritizing mobility, emotional engagement, and personal choice, it sets a precedent for a new model of palliative care. Readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation for detailed insights into architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs that highlight this innovative approach to hospice care.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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
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