International awards for two master’s theses in healthcare design

Karl-Johan Gydell’s thesis, with the title “Golden Slumbers Family Hospice”, was awarded the 1st price at the Architecture for Health Student Award, by ENAH, European Network Architecture for Health. The award ceremony took place in Berlin on the 29th of February. Supervisors were Johanna Eriksson and Susanne Clase from Chalmers University of Technology.

Quote from the jury statement:
"The idea of a family hospice as "a temporary home for families with children, offering a comprehensive care and support for the entire family regardless of whether the child or parent is ill" is considered by the jury to be very relevant and innovative. In terms of design, the design also impresses with its detailed and precise elaboration. The result is a clearly structured ensemble with a high quality of stay, which fits perfectly into its surroundings and whose rooms are tailored to the respective needs of use. Graphically well presented, the project also leaves no doubt about its feasibility."

Keli Kadriu developed her thesis "Healing Before: Enhancing Mental Well-being in Young Adults through the Built Environment" during her Erasmus exchange period at Chalmers. Her supervisors were Cristiana Caira and Jens Axelsson from Chalmers University of Technology, and Margherita Vanore from IUAV University of Venice.

The thesis received an Honorable Mention at the CNETO Award 2023 (more information in Italian). CNETO (Centro Nazionale per l'Edilizia e la Tecnica Ospedaliera) is an Italian National Centre for Healthcare Construction and Technology.

The thesis also received the Award Special Prize on Gender Equality – Architecture by IUAV University of Venice.

Quote from the jury statement:
"The thesis, developed in an international context, thoroughly addresses the care needs of young adults' vulnerabilities and their right to health through inclusive design, capable of qualifying urban spaces, gardens, and architectures in their civic role." (more information in Italian)

Both awardees have taken courses in healthcare architecture at the Department of Architecture and Civil Engineering. These courses are conducted by teachers connected to the Centre for Healthcare Architecture.

Congratulations to Keli and Karl-Johan!