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Timeless Serenity Crafted with Cast Concrete and Expansive Glass for Hospice Care

Authors:
Robin Cals, Sjoerd Boomars
Timeless Serenity Crafted with Cast Concrete and Expansive Glass for Hospice Care

Project in-detail

Crafted from cast concrete and expansive glass to reflect the tranquil coastal landscape, this hospice seamlessly integrates nature and comfort, providing a serene environment for patients and their families during a pivotal time of life.
5 key facts about this project
01
The building's central courtyard offers a natural gathering space, enhancing social interactions while maintaining privacy for residents.
02
Floor-to-ceiling glass windows maximize daylight and provide unobstructed views of the surrounding coastal dunes.
03
Cast concrete construction ensures durability while harmonizing with the natural textures of the landscape.
04
Careful landscaping incorporates native plant species, creating a seamless transition between the indoors and outdoors.
05
Dedicated meditation areas are designed to promote tranquility and reflection, catering to the emotional needs of residents and families.
Villa Duin is an architectural project designed as a hospice care facility situated along the tranquil coastal dunes of the Netherlands. This project represents an integration of architecture and nature, providing a serene environment conducive to the emotional and psychological well-being of patients in their final stages of life. The design reflects a thoughtful approach that prioritizes comfort, connection to the landscape, and a sense of community for residents and their families.

In terms of function, Villa Duin serves as a hospice, offering spaces where patients can receive care while surrounded by their loved ones in a peaceful setting. The design incorporates a variety of spaces tailored to the needs of its users, from private patient rooms that ensure personal comfort to communal areas that promote interaction and support. The layout is purposefully structured, facilitating a sense of flow and accessibility throughout the facility.

The important components of Villa Duin include a central courtyard that acts as the focal point for the building. This outdoor space not only provides a visual connection to the landscape but also encourages social interactions among residents, their families, and staff. The patient rooms are designed with large windows, allowing natural light to fill the interiors and providing patients with scenic views of the coastal environment. This connection to nature is a central theme of the design, promoting a calm atmosphere conducive to reflection and peace.

Unique design approaches are evident throughout the project. The architects have thoughtfully employed a material palette that emphasizes warmth and tactile experiences. Cast concrete serves as the primary construction material, chosen for its durability and ability to blend into the surrounding landscape. Large expanses of glass facilitate transparency and openness, creating a visual dialogue between the indoor spaces and the natural world outside. Furthermore, wooden finishes within the building soften the concrete's starkness, contributing to a welcoming environment.

Accessibility is another critical consideration reflected in the design. Circulation pathways are designed to be intuitive, allowing users to easily navigate the space while accommodating individuals with varying mobility needs. The strategic placement of communal areas distanced from patient quarters creates a balance between social interaction and personal privacy.

Overall, Villa Duin embodies a sensitive architectural response to hospice care, demonstrating a commitment to enhancing the quality of life for its residents. The integration of natural elements, thoughtful spatial organization, and a cohesive material palette all contribute to its overall design philosophy. Those interested in exploring this project further can delve into aspects such as architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs to gain deeper insights into the unique ideas driving this project. Engaging with these elements will provide a comprehensive understanding of how Villa Duin successfully marries architecture with the profound purpose of 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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