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Wooden Serenity Embraced by Nature in a Baltic Hospice

Authors:
Krzysztof Przybylo, Wojciech Smyczek, PIOTR SZENDERA
Wooden Serenity Embraced by Nature in a Baltic Hospice

Project in-detail

Framed by expansive glass windows and surrounded by a rich ecosystem, the hospice seamlessly blends with its Baltic setting while providing a tranquil and supportive environment for end-of-life care.
5 key facts about this project
01
Framed by trees, the design enhances connection with nature.
02
Expansive glass windows promote natural light and views of the landscape.
03
Private care areas are discreetly hidden behind frosted glass partitions.
04
Wood elements create a warm, inviting atmosphere throughout the interior.
05
Outdoor patios extend living spaces and encourage engagement with the environment.

The hospice project is a thoughtful approach to modern healthcare environments, set in a location that offers views of the Baltic Sea while connecting to the urban space of Gdynia. Designed to change how people view hospices, it focuses on comfort and community rather than fear. The building works with the landscape, placing emphasis on the natural surroundings as a means to enhance the overall experience for patients and their families.

Architectural Concept

The design aims to redefine the typical experience associated with hospice care. By embedding the building in the landscape, the structure encourages a strong relationship with nature. It sits among trees, allowing those who enter to feel a sense of belonging within the environment. This connection to the outdoors is central to the vision, providing an emotional benefit that can help ease the difficult realities of end-of-life care.



Design Elements

A key feature of the design is the use of large glass windows. These windows not only allow light to flood the interiors but also offer views of the lush surroundings. This creates a feeling of openness, helping to lift spirits and inviting nature inside. The connection to the outside world is reinforced through these transparent elements, enhancing the overall atmosphere of the space and providing a comforting setting.



Spatial Configuration

Inside, the layout offers a mix of communal areas and private spaces. This thoughtful arrangement caters to the varied needs of patients and their families. Some spaces encourage social interaction, while others allow for quiet reflection. Areas that provide medical assistance are carefully hidden behind frosted glass. This design choice respects the need for privacy while maintaining the welcoming character of the hospice.



Material Selection

The project features a selection of materials that support the overall aim of creating a warm and inviting environment. Wood plays a significant role, adding a layer of comfort that resonates throughout the interiors. Warm lighting complements this choice, creating spaces that feel cozy and reassuring, especially during difficult moments.



The design includes inviting patios, extending living spaces outdoors. This connection to nature enhances the overall experience, allowing individuals to find peace in their surroundings. Each detail reflects a commitment to rethinking how spaces can facilitate care and connection.

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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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