A long-established clinic specializing in internal medicine and cardiology, which has supported local healthcare in Nakano, Tokyo, has designed a new branch.
The project involved renovating an old wooden house located across from the existing clinic, transforming it into a modern medical space that meets the evolving needs of the community.
Originally built in 1969, the structure required significant reinforcement.
During the renovation, both the interior and exterior finishes were stripped away to expose the framework for inspection. The existing columns and beams were found to be relatively thin and delicate. To accommodate the new layout, some columns were removed or repositioned, while additional columns were added, and beams were either reinforced or replaced with stronger ones to enhance structural stability.
Evidence of past extensions was found on the roadside section of the building, where the foundation consisted only of stacked concrete blocks. To address this, the upper structure was temporarily lifted using jacks, allowing for the installation of a new continuous footing to properly secure it.
The original staircase was steep, with high risers and narrow treads. To optimize the limited space, a new staircase was installed, rerouted to ascend over the reception area.
On the first floor, a series of windows were strategically placed to work around existing columns, creating a bright and open reception and waiting area. A display shelf in the waiting space and mosaic tiles on the front of the reception counter were incorporated to highlight the clinic’s focus on beauty treatments, ensuring visibility from the street. The walls and ceiling were finished in light gray, while white was used for the reception, staircase, and display shelves to create a striking contrast and a refined color scheme.
The second floor was designed as a flexible open space that can be divided into three treatment areas and a powder room using curtains. To address the ceiling height variations caused by the building’s roof structure while also enhancing privacy, a series of triangular ceilings was introduced. Since many patients would be lying down during treatments, soft lighting was installed to illuminate the triangular ceilings from below, casting a gentle, diffused glow throughout the space. These design choices create a relaxing atmosphere despite the compact layout.
Since the two adjacent roads are classified as Article 42-2 roads, discussions were held with local authorities. It was decided that the setback requirements would be applied selectively—avoiding areas that would compromise the building’s structure while incorporating setbacks where possible. The existing entrance and a long-side balcony within the setback area were removed, and a new perforated metal façade was installed to provide privacy for the second-floor treatment spaces.
This façade not only conceals the treatment room windows, external air conditioning units, and piping but also establishes a visual connection with the distinctive curved exterior of the existing clinic. The floating, white veil-like structure draws the attention of passersby, adding a unique architectural element to the design.
The completed project seamlessly bridges the clinic’s past with its future, preserving its historical presence in the community while introducing a renewed and upgraded medical facility.