WORKS

Naha City Hopital

Light of "Yui"

“Compassionate medical care, for the community.”

We sought to discover a light that would embody the spirit of Naha City Hospital, drawing inspiration from two words its cherished philosophy and “Yui” the guiding concept for the new hospital.

“Yui” is a uniquely Okinawan concept rooted in a culture and spirit passed down through generations̶one of people connecting with and supporting one another. We asked ourselves whether this spirit of “Yui” could be expressed through light. Light stays close to people, connecting one space to another. Where people gather, it gently embraces the places and people within them. In this way, the “Light of Yui” flows throughout the hospital, softly connecting people and spaces.

The philosophy of “compassionate medical care” also led us to consider how light can support both the mind and body. While it may be an overstatement to say that light itself promotes healing, we believe that light can help people feel safe and at ease, while allowing them to experience the natural rhythms of the day. In doing so, it can gently support the innate strength and vitality within each person. As a team, we continually asked ourselves how light could engage with these inner strengths and gently draw them out.

With everyone who spends time in the hospital in mind, we sought to create a lighting environment that quietly supports their everyday lives.

Morning at the entrance. Along Hospital Street, the “Light of Yui” takes on a cool, pale blue reminiscent of the clear morning sky, marking the beginning of a new day. In the waiting area, where people gather, the light traces a gentle arc as it gradually shifts to a warmer tone. In front of the reception desk, red wavelengths are added to the light, bringing warmth and vitality to the faces and presence of the nurses.
As evening approaches, the " Light of Yui" gradually shifts throughout the entrance to a warmer tone. By changing the color of the light in response to the passing of the day we create a calm and soothing lighting environment from dusk into the night.
Outpatient Reception. The “Light of Yui” extends from the reception area to the waiting area beyond, tracing soft arcs that gently connect the spaces.
Inpatient Ward Corridor. The “Light of Yui” extends along the corridor and comes together at the staff station, forming a gentle visual cue that lets people know nurses are there.
Rehabilitation Room. Just as a breeze flow between windows overlooking the sea and mountains, the “Light of Yui” traces sweeping curves. Infused with crisp blue-green and cool white light, it creates a refreshing environment for comfortable movement. The color of the light changes with the time of day and from day to day, giving the space a different expression each time.
Preoperative Corridor. To help ease the tension of patients awaiting surgery, the “Light of Yui” continues along the corridor in a soft, gentle arc. Guided by the gentle flow of light, patients can make their way to the operating room with a greater sense of calm.
NICU•GCU. Babies in the NICU and GCU are at a stage when they would normally still be in the womb, requiring a dimmed, low-lux environment. At the same time, a sense of brightness is important for reassuring parents and supporting staff who spend long hours in the space. To achieve this balance, cove lighting envelops the entire room in warm light while keeping the illuminance reaching the newborns low.
Chemotherapy Room. Seeking to ease patients' minds during extended treatments, nurses at the former hospital had integrated aromatherapy into care. Building on this idea, the new hospital enables them to choose light colors to complement the scent. The lighting scene shown here is inspired by hydrangeas.
In the Dialysis Room as well, lighting scenes are incorporated to help patients spend the long hours of treatment in more peaceful state of mind. The lighting scene shown here is inspired by hibiscus.
Obstetrics LDR. To help expectant mothers feel as relaxed as possible during childbirth, customizable lighting scenes are available. The photo shows a setting inspired by the seas of Okinawa. Waves of light shift gently to match the rhythm of deep breathing. The “Light of Yui” stays softly close to mothers at the very moment a new life is born.

2025／Okinawa Prefecture

Architectural Design : Azusa sekkei / WORLD Architects and Engineers / KUNIYOSHI SEKKEI

Lighting Design : DAISUKI LIGHT

Photography : Akito Goto

＊Received a “Awards of Merit” at the IES Illumination Awards 2026

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