FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

"Love Infirmary" Redesign Transforms Ren-ai Elementary School's Health Center

Ren-ai Elementary School in Taipei city, Taiwan, has unveiled the innovative "Love Infirmary," a transformative redesign of its health center, created by Daisuke Nagatomo and Minnie Jan. The project, which began in September 2021, addresses critical issues such as insufficient circulation, dark interior space, and inadequate medical equipment storage. The redesign introduces a biophilic approach, incorporating natural light, textures, and smooth curved surfaces to create a calming and functional space for students in need of medical attention.

The "Love Infirmary" is inspired by harmonious water ripples coexisting in one space, with each circle representing a specific function, such as the nurse's office, beds, breastfeeding rooms, and counter. The design aims to calm injured students when they come for treatment, providing a welcoming and supportive environment.

Constructed with wood carpentry and prefabricated furniture components, the health center features an anti-alcohol finish on the majority of surfaces for easy cleaning. The 14m width, 9.5m depth, and 3.3m height space, totaling 110m2, offers a clear path for injured students to find the nurse and receive treatment, as well as smooth circulation for the annual physical check-ups.

The "Love Infirmary" project is part of a campus design movement initiated by the Taiwan Design Research Institute and supported by the Ministry of Education. It aims to promote students' aesthetic sense by showcasing high-quality designed spaces, contributing to the overall well-being of the school community.

The "Love Infirmary" redesign was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in 2023 for its outstanding and creatively ingenious approach to improving the student experience and well-being. The project represents a significant step forward in addressing the challenges faced by the original health center, demonstrating the power of design thinking to articulate and solve complex problems.

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