LuxLinea: A Beacon of Light and Design Innovation in Shibuya's Urban Tapestry

In the ever-evolving urban landscape of Shibuya, Tokyo, the LuxLinea ophthalmology clinic stands out as a visionary addition to the city's architectural tapestry. Designed by KTX archiLAB, this new clinic, part of the esteemed Total Eye Care network, offers a space that harmonizes clinical precision with a sophisticated urban sensibility. The design of LuxLinea is not just functional; it is a masterpiece in how architecture can shape and enhance the patient experience while engaging with the surrounding environment. Its unique design features are sure to pique your interest and leave you curious to explore more.

LuxLinea is located on the ground floor of a mixed-use building with dual glass facades that directly connect to Shibuya's lively energy. However, due to the building's transparency, maintaining patient privacy and managing daylight reflections posed a significant challenge. KTX archiLAB addressed this challenge with an ingenious solution. The architects used light as a dynamic medium, transforming the clinic into a living entity interacting with its environment in real time. Their innovative solutions are sure to impress and inspire you.

During the day, LuxLinea's glass walls are illuminated by vertical lines of light, creating a sense of curiosity and welcome for passersby. This interplay of light reduces glare and turns the clinic into a radiant landmark in the urban landscape. The design aims to engage the public and invite them into a space that is not just a part of the city but a sanctuary for those seeking care. LuxLinea is a testament to the clinic's role in the urban landscape, creating a sense of belonging and connection for all who visit.

The entrance and reception counter are strategically placed at the more minor corner of the trapezoid, where the two glazed sides converge. This placement maximizes natural light and creates a welcoming entry point that feels open and accessible. The waiting area, aligned along the glass facade, extends this feeling of openness. Patients are seated along the perimeter, separated by transparent acrylic panels. These panels, illuminated in the same vertical light pattern that characterizes the exterior, provide an excellent solution to the dual concerns of privacy and health. They shield patients from the outside world and act as barriers against airborne contaminants, a critical consideration in today's healthcare environments.

You'll notice subtle design changes as you go into the clinic. The examination and treatment rooms, which are light-sensitive, are set back from the front entrance and can be accessed through gates bordered by illuminated panels. These rooms provide a quiet and focused environment for care, insulated from outside activity. The waiting area uses mirrored ceilings and walls, which serve a dual purpose. During the day, the mirrors reflect the city's surroundings, blending the outside with the clinic. They become reflective surfaces at night, enhancing the interior light and creating a mesmerizing, kaleidoscopic effect. The overall result is a spacious, unique atmosphere where light and reflection constantly alter the environment.

LuxLinea is not just an ophthalmology clinic; it represents a new approach to healthcare spaces in the 21st century. KTX archiLAB has designed a space where design and function are closely linked, with every element serving a purpose, from the lighting patterns to the placement of mirrors. The clinic challenges traditional clinical design and showcases how architecture can enhance the patient experience. It aims to create a vibrant and engaging space that contributes to the city while providing a comfortable environment for patients. In a city known for its bold architecture, LuxLinea stands out as a symbol of considerate, patient-centred design that integrates well with the urban surroundings of Tokyo.

Designer Profile

KTX archiLAB is an architectural and interior design office based in Japan. Specialized in commercial and medical design, its portfolio includes a wide range of projects: Hospitality, retail, showrooms, offices, hospitals, clinics, and more. KTX archiLAB has received more than a hundred and sixty local and international awards for its projects conducted both in Japan and abroad.

For more information, please visit: http://ktx.space/

*This project is one of the shortlisted project in the Sky Design Awards 2024 - Interior Design - Institution Division