Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation American Cancer Society, Hope Lodge
Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation American Cancer Society, Hope Lodge provides free lodging and amenities for cancer patients undergoing treatment in Houston. The lodge acts as a home away from home for the patient and a family member, who have access to a suite, clean linens, resource library, recreation rooms, kitchen and personal pantry, meditation room, transportation to treatment, and a nurturing community of volunteers.
The design concept seeks to develop a building as a sanctuary, providing refuge and a sense of rejuvenation and hope, helping to generate the energy and camaraderie necessary to promote the healing process. Careful consideration was given to the specification of healthy and natural building materials along with advanced mechanical and water filtration systems to ensure a healthier environment.
Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation American Cancer Society, Hope Lodge is located just blocks away from the Medical District to ensure patients and their families are in close proximity to local cancer treatment centers.
Utilizing biophilic principles to create a strong sense of community, Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation American Cancer Society, Hope Lodge employs the time-honored cloister typology – focused on a central garden – to promote rejuvenation, healing, and wellness.
All communal spaces surround the central healing garden, allowing for natural daylight to permeate the building and offer biophilic views.
The natural elements visually transition from the healing garden into the interior spaces to maintain the patients’ connection with nature and constantly communicate the concept of rejuvenation, healing and growth.
