Architecture and Palliative Care: Designing an Urban Hospice for Riga’s Evolving Healthcare Landscape
Keywords:
Palliative care architecture, Hospice design, End-of life care, Urban hospice, Evidence based design, Healthcare facility planingAbstract
The integration of hospice care within the urban fabric presents both architectural and societal challenges, particularly in Latvia, where dedicated hospice facilities are lacking. This article examines the evolution of hospice design and its application in the context of Riga, proposing an urban hospice by Māras Pond as a model for palliative care infrastructure.
The site’s strategic location, combining urban accessibility with therapeutic natural surroundings, informs a design that balances medical functionality, historical sensitivity, and community engagement. Spatial strategies prioritize patient well-being through carefully integrated indoor and outdoor environments, fostering psychological comfort and social inclusion.
This article highlights the critical need for dedicated hospice facilities in Latvia, advocating for a comprehensive approach that integrates evidence-based design principles, sustainability, policy support, and public awareness to transform the future of palliative care in Latvia.
