Miyabi: A Minimalistic Dental Clinic Inspired by Japanese Simplicity

Combining Tradition and Futuristic Design

The design of Miyabi draws inspiration from the simplicity and openness of traditional Japanese spaces, where the boundaries between indoors and outdoors are blurred. Tetsuya Matsumoto aimed to create a dental clinic that captures this essence while incorporating a futuristic touch. The interior features a minimalistic color palette of white and wood textures, evoking a sense of calm and tranquility.

What sets Miyabi apart is its innovative use of space and materials. To accommodate a low budget, the clinic employs a Japanese standard wooden structure and removes all walls in the reception and waiting area, replacing them with clear glass panels. This design choice not only opens up the space but also allows natural light to flood in, creating a welcoming and soothing atmosphere. The roof ceiling above the waiting area is free of any technical devices, resulting in a light roof line that adds to the overall aesthetic appeal.

The construction of Miyabi utilizes the standard Japanese wooden structure with a 910mm span, allowing for significant savings in materials and energy. The exterior walls are covered with corrugated metal siding, while the main facade features clear glass panels fixed directly to the wooden pillars. Inside, the walls are made using drywall techniques and finished in vinyl wall cloth, adding to the clinic's sleek and modern look.

With a gross built area of 205sqm, Miyabi offers a functional and efficient layout. Patients enter the clinic from the southwest, greeted by a fully glazed section that provides a complete view of the reception and waiting area. The entrance leads directly to the reception counter, where nurses register patients and guide them to their designated waiting spots. The clinic also includes a counseling room, treatment booths, an X-ray room, and utilitarian spaces, all strategically arranged to maximize functionality within the limited floor area.

Designed by Tetsuya Matsumoto, Miyabi is a testament to the designer's meticulous research and creative problem-solving. The project required finding innovative solutions to create a fully functional dental clinic within a limited space and budget. Matsumoto's careful selection of materials and attention to detail resulted in a design that exudes a high-end atmosphere while remaining cost-effective.

Miyabi, completed in November 2022, has received recognition for its outstanding design. It was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Architecture, Building, and Structure Design category in 2023. This prestigious accolade celebrates designs that showcase creativity, resourcefulness, and technical excellence, contributing to improvements in quality of life.

With its seamless blend of traditional Japanese aesthetics and futuristic design elements, Miyabi stands as a testament to the power of innovation and creativity in the field of architecture and design. This dental clinic not only provides a functional space for dental care but also offers a serene and visually captivating environment for patients.