Dr Lee’s Eye Clinic

Jinju, South Korea


Welcoming patients with a cosy feeling of home in a medical setting

The task accorded to space stylist, Hyemin Lee, was to introduce a feeling of hominess at Dr Lee’s Eye Clinic. As Korean medical centres typically lack a cosy, inviting vibe, the project aimed to change that stereotype and find a perfect balance between a cosy living room feel while presenting an advanced medical facility in the same space.

The clinic’s space is divided into two main sections: an examination room and surgery centre, and a waiting room for patients. The primary focus for the space stylists was to put the visitors at ease. By reflecting familiar spaces where visitors would sit on a comfortable sofa and enjoy a cup of coffee – at home or in a hotel lobby, for example – the clinic’s waiting room signalled comfort, ease and even relaxation.

The colour scheme for the clinic consisted of soothing colours only, as the stylists’ team was acutely aware that the visitors to the clinic were patients with discomfort in their eyes. What they sought in furniture pieces was comfort, durability, sustainability and beauty. To this point, Hyemin Lee states, “we looked for beautifully crafted pieces, and the answer was only one; Fritz Hansen.”

Having spent some time living in Denmark, Hyemin Lee reflected on the inspiration gained from that experience: “The concept was brought to reality thanks to my personal memories of living in Copenhagen. The Scandinavian home made me realise the importance of a secure and beautiful home. Hence the project was greatly inspired by the good old memories from Denmark.”

Beautiful textiles in soothing colours, soft seating and natural light complemented with ambient pendant lighting create a uniquely beautiful and calm waiting space. Among the curated mix of seating, Arne Jacobsen’s organically shaped Egg™ and Swan™ chairs add iconic Scandinavian elegance. Small Stub™ side tables are perfect for placing that cup of coffee or a book upon. A cosy cluster of VIA57™ and Fri™ lounge chairs invite visitors to wait in easy comfort, as does the curvy Alphabet™ sofa. Planner™ shelving segments the space without taking away the feeling of light airiness. And at the long Essay™ table sit ten front upholstered Series 7™ chairs. The different arrangement ensures every visitor, whether waiting alone or with others, has a comfortable and relaxing experience.