The Ukrainian Foundation “Helping Hand” invites architects, interior architects, and interdisciplinary teams to participate in an open conceptual competition for the design of a PTSD Therapy and Psychological Support Center.
The aim of the competition is to develop an architectural and interior design concept for a facility intended for:
- individuals affected by war-related trauma
- participants of psychological therapy
- training programs and workshops
- community meetings
- temporary accommodation for participants of therapeutic programs
The Foundation is seeking designs that combine therapeutic sensitivity, architectural clarity, and a human-centered approach to space.
The proposed building should create an atmosphere of safety, calm, and dignity, while also being functional and easy to use on a daily basis.
1. Competition Objective
The objective of the competition is to obtain an architectural and interior design concept for a PTSD therapy center that:
- supports the therapeutic process
- ensures a sense of safety and psychological comfort
- offers flexible spaces for various forms of therapy
- integrates architecture with its surroundings and greenery
- creates a welcoming, non-institutional environment
Special attention should be given to:
- the calm character of the space
- access to natural light
- acoustic comfort
- intuitive circulation
- human scale and the warmth of materials
2. Functional Program
Ground Floor – Social Zone
- café or dining area
- large training room for 50–60 people
- space for a board, projector, and facilitator’s desk
First Floor – Therapy Zone
- 4 individual consultation rooms up to 15 m² each
- 4 group therapy rooms up to 30 m² each
Group therapy rooms should allow seating arranged in a circle and flexible layouts.
Consultation rooms should include two armchairs and a small table or shelf.
Second Floor – Accommodation Zone
A small lodging facility for participants attending two-day or longer training sessions.
Scope:
- guest rooms
- shared bathroom with showers
- relaxation/lounge area
Additional Spaces
- restrooms on each floor
- relaxation rooms or waiting areas
- circulation spaces encouraging informal interactions
Site Development
- benches
- greenery
- site fencing
- parking for approximately 50 cars
3. Architectural and Interior Guidelines
The design should emphasize:
- human-centered design
- simplicity and clarity of spatial layout
- therapeutic atmosphere
- flexibility of spaces
- connection with nature
4. Technical Notes
General guidelines:
- tiled flooring in rooms
- ceilings without decorative patterns
- blinds in windows
5. Scope of Competition Submission
Participants should present:
- site development plan
- floor plans
- basic sections
- interior design concept
- visualizations of key spaces
- a brief description of the design idea
7. Evaluation Criteria
Projects will be evaluated based on:
- quality of the spatial concept
- support for the therapeutic process
- clarity of the functional layout
- atmosphere of the space
- integration with surroundings
- feasibility and practicality
8. Expected Outcome of the Competition
The goal of the competition is to select a concept that best combines high architectural quality, social sensitivity, and clear spatial organization.
The winning concept may become the basis for the implementation of the PTSD Therapy Center operated by the “Helping Hand” Foundation.
Competition entries should be sent to the email address: competition@handofsupport.org
Центр психологічної допомоги "Рука Підтримки" 