Solid Light Hospice is designed to address the challenges of end-of-life care within a thoughtful architectural framework. Located fifteen minutes north of San Francisco, it combines built structures with the surrounding landscape to reflect both acceptance of dying and the appreciation for life. The project features interconnected pavilions under a sweeping canopy, creating a balance between private and communal spaces.

Architecture and Site Integration

The design is dominated by a canopy that provides a distinct visual and functional role. Made of glass and containing Building Integrated Photo Voltaics, it collects solar energy while minimizing heat gain in the spaces below. The pavilions, which blend into the hillside, encourage guests to explore the area and experience the natural environment that encircles them.

Spatial Organization

Inside, the layout includes private patient rooms, a library, a chapel, a kitchen, a dining room, an underground entry skylight, a meditation room, and a parking lot. This organization allows for privacy while also promoting social interaction among guests. The patient rooms are not just separate areas; they are arranged in a tower at the northwest corner for maximum views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the bay. Each room can be reached via a glass elevator that moves through trees, blurring any boundary between the inside and outside.

Materials and Aesthetics

Use of mass timber in the chapel introduces warmth to the space. Inspired by stained glass found in historical buildings, the chapel’s design allows light to filter through in an abstract manner, creating a soothing atmosphere. Choosing suitable materials elevates the overall aesthetic and contributes to the calming experience intended for visitors.

Connection to History

Set on the former Kirby Battery site, the design acknowledges the historical context of the area. The existing concrete structures are incorporated into the pathways, encouraging visitors to engage with the site’s past while enjoying its peaceful surroundings.

The library plays an important role as a quiet area for reflection. It sits between sturdy walls and is partially below ground. A glass roof allows natural light to enter, creating a welcoming space for contemplation and thought.