A Hospice Center for the Homeless
Rome, Italy
Spring 2022
This project began with a master plan for a public park and private hospice center on the Caelian Hill in Rome, Italy. It required an intense study of the surrounding context and typography of the site.
Most importantly, I chose to establish important connectivity of the site with surrounding areas. I rebuilt the podium of the Temple of Divine Claudius, which restores the memory of the temple and re-establishes the site's connection with Piazza San Giovanni e Paolo. I created a formal public park access from the Forum including a bridge over the road. Finally, a trident serves vehicular circulation off of the Via San Gregorio.
The hospice center takes advantage of topography with a series of private, terraced working gardens behind it, which overlook the Palatine Hill.
For the Hospice center itself, I focused on studying traditional Roman brick construction and villa and hospital building typologies. The building is modest yet dignified in character, according to its hospice function.
The interior character of the building is defined by a series of Guastivino tiled-vaulted spaces, which create a welcoming entrance sequence. These vaults also create a beautiful gathering space in the refectory for the homeless to enjoy their meals. The hospice also maintains a strong relationship with the landscape, creating a healthy place for guests to recover.
