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Vertical Rain Fountain and Fluid Natural Light in a Triangular Concrete Hospice

Authors:
Daewoong Kim, Shun Sasaki
Vertical Rain Fountain and Fluid Natural Light in a Triangular Concrete Hospice

Project in-detail

A vertical rain fountain enhances the sensory experience within a triangular concrete structure, where expansive natural light and landscape integration create a serene environment for terminally ill patients.
5 key facts about this project
01
A vertical rain fountain serves as a central element, enhancing the sensory experience within the space.
02
The triangular layout promotes efficient circulation while ensuring structural stability.
03
Large glass panels facilitate abundant natural light and connect occupants with the surrounding landscape.
04
Private rooms are strategically oriented to maximize views and privacy for residents.
05
Materials include charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, emphasizing sustainability and durability.

## Overview

"Echoes in Rain" functions as a hospice designed for terminally ill patients, emphasizing a serene and contemplative environment. Located within a thoughtfully selected site, the design aims to foster emotional well-being and connections among residents, visitors, and the surrounding landscape. By integrating architectural elements that reflect life's transience, the project addresses the unique needs of its inhabitants while promoting introspection and connection to the natural world.

## Spatial Configuration and Sensory Experience

The building adopts a triangular form, which symbolically represents strength and stability. This geometric layout supports fluid circulation within the hospice, facilitating movement and engagement with both indoor and outdoor environments. The design incorporates features such as strategically positioned staircases and terraces that encourage exploration of nature, enhancing residents' overall experience.

Central to the therapeutic atmosphere is a vertical rain fountain, which channels rainwater through the building and culminates in a focal point that enhances auditory and visual stimulation. This feature invites reflection and contemplation, aligning with the overarching intent to provide a meditative space for occupants.

## Materiality and Interaction with Environment

The material palette is selected to enhance the emotional resonance of the hospice. Concrete is utilized for its durability, while glass allows for abundant natural light, creating transparency between inside and outside. Wood is incorporated to add warmth and tactile comfort, fostering a homely atmosphere. Structural steel elements provide elegance and stability, allowing for open spaces free of visual obstruction.

The materials also engage thoughtfully with the surrounding geography, cultivating a harmonious relationship with nature. This integration not only promotes a sense of belonging but also contributes to the overall emotional and spiritual well-being of the residents, reinforcing the connection between the built environment and the natural landscape.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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