Hyangsimjae: A Unique and Intimate Clinic Design

Combining Family Medicine and Dermatology in a Healing Space

The architects at 100A Associates aimed to create an atmosphere of privacy and healing within Hyangsimjae Clinic. By limiting simultaneous access and the number of people staying in the clinic, they have successfully crafted a space that allows patients to fully rest and recuperate. Natural elements, such as light, are incorporated to enhance the healing experience, providing a sense of tranquility and comfort.

What sets Hyangsimjae Clinic apart is its commitment to treating patients with utmost care and compassion. The name itself, Hyangsimjae, translates to "a house that treats people with all its heart." This philosophy is reflected in every aspect of the design, ensuring that patients feel cared for and supported throughout their medical journey.

The exterior design of Hyangsimjae Clinic stands in stark contrast to the bustling cityscape. The architects intentionally created a crude and plain appearance, using handcrafted techniques to achieve a coarse texture. The addition of metals and glass adds a touch of elegance to the rough exterior, blending urbanism with a sense of artistic presentation.

With a building area of 130 square meters, Hyangsimjae Clinic is a compact yet impactful space. Its layout and circulation planning are carefully designed to create a sense of time and tranquility. Patients are welcomed through a garden and guided slowly into the private areas of the clinic. The kitchen, strategically placed near the entrance, serves as a display of the doctor's hopes and intentions, setting the tone for the patient's experience.

Hyangsimjae Clinic is located in Daegu, Republic of Korea, and was completed in 2019. The design process involved extensive research and creative problem-solving. The challenge was to create a space that focuses on treatment while providing a classical ambiance, but the architects at 100A Associates simplified this aspect to allow patients to connect with the doctor's garden and heart, facilitating true healing and relaxation.

Hyangsimjae Clinic has received recognition for its outstanding design. It was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Architecture, Building, and Structure Design category in 2022. This prestigious award honors designs that demonstrate creativity, resourcefulness, and a commitment to improving quality of life. The clinic's unique approach to combining medical specialties and creating an intimate healing environment has made it a standout in the field.

Photography credits for Hyangsimjae Clinic go to Jae-yoon Kim, and all intellectual property rights belong to 100A Associates. With its innovative design and focus on patient well-being, Hyangsimjae Clinic sets a new standard for medical facilities, providing a space where healing and trust can flourish.