SHELTER OF LIGHT

As a serene healing sanctuary designed for end-of-life care, Shelter of Light offers solace, dignity, and a profound sense of peaceful belonging through its tranquil environment.

Nestled in the woodland beside Dushu Lake in Suzhou, the project provides a complete retreat from urban clamor and serves as a refuge for the soul. To foster a deep connection between people and nature, the design emphasizes a seamless integration of natural elements and architecture. Low, horizontal volumes and sloping roofs flow with the natural terrain, allowing the building to blend seamlessly with its surroundings. Skylights from the inclined roofs bring in natural light, symbolizing spiritual ascension and transition, while extended horizontal eaves reach outward, gently touching the earth and embracing nature.

At its heart lies an open circular courtyard, breaking away from rigid geometry and inviting nature inward. Sunlight, raindrops, birdsong, and the shifting seasons all weave their way into the space, transforming it into a living symbol of continuity and connection. Greenery envelopes the structure both inside and outside, deepening the bond between humanity and the natural world. Flanking the courtyard are thoughtfully composed spaces—a reading room, a gathering hall, a meditation chapel, and healing sanctuaries—each designed to meet diverse needs, from communal connection to solitary reflection.

The retreat prioritizes locally sourced, natural materials such as wood and brick to reduce carbon emissions while enhancing tactile affinity and ease of maintenance. A lightweight hybrid timber-steel structure ensures efficient construction and long-term adaptability. The integrated skylight system bathes the space in natural light and gentle breezes, minimizing reliance on mechanical ventilation and artificial lighting. This creates a soft, luminous atmosphere where light and air flow freely, cultivating a sense of quiet harmony.

Together, these elements shape a place that uplifts, nurtures, and gently awakens the spirit—a sanctuary where life's final chapter is cradled in serenity, beauty, and grace.