# Conversation-Encouraging Waiting Areas A Children's Healthcare Center in Japan Boasts a Warm Feel By Francesca Mercurio | Published 2021-10-28 | Art & Design Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/childrens-healthcare-center References: [archdaily](https://www.archdaily.com/970741/kitakami-children-health-and-support-center-uta-unemori-teco-associates?utm_source=feedly&utm_medium=webfeeds&utm_campaign=Feed:+ArchDaily+%28ArchDaily%29) Japan-based architects Unemori teco Associates (UtA) have collaborated with the firm Unemori Architects to design a two-storied [children's healthcare center](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/jawaher-boston-medical-district). The design team converted the first two floors of a commercial building in Kitakami, Japan into a unique complex dedicated to children's health. The space is 4,000 square meters and boasts a warm industrial aesthetic. Visitors are welcomed into a large central space with undulating floors and ceilings. The space is filled with large windows and light-colored wood which lends a warm and comfortable feel. The center includes an atrium, [a cafe](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/challe-caf), and a reception area, and plenty of seating areas that encourage conversation amongst families. The architects redid the exterior and [clad the entire facade with glass](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/t72-dental-clinic), creating a bright and fresh feel. Image Credit: Unemori teco Associates/Unemori Architects ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 5.4/10 - Popularity: 86% | Activity: 65% | Freshness: 10% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Gen Z, Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, South America, Europe, Asia, Africa ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Art & Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/artdesign) > [Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/design) ## Key Themes ### Key Themes Behind This Trend - **Conversation-encouraging Spaces:** Designing spaces that encourage conversation and social interaction can be applied to various industries, from healthcare centers to co-working spaces. - **Industrial Aesthetic:** The use of industrial materials such as exposed steel and concrete can create a modern and edgy atmosphere in various spaces, from healthcare to retail. - **Natural Light:** Designing spaces with ample natural light not only creates a warm and inviting atmosphere but can also improve productivity in workplaces and educational institutions. ### Where This Applies - **Healthcare:** Designing healthcare facilities that prioritize patient comfort and social interaction can be a disruptive innovation opportunity. - **Hospitality:** Designing hospitality spaces such as cafes and lobbies that encourage conversation and social interaction can create a unique and memorable experience for guests. - **Retail:** Designing retail spaces with an industrial aesthetic and ample natural light can create a trendy atmosphere that attracts customers and promotes sales. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Mural-Adorned Pediatric Clinics](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/odessa-brown-childrens-clinic.md) - [Residential-Reflective Tranquil Clinics](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/aloop-clinic.md) - [Therapeutic Architecture Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/heartland-whole-health-institute.md) - [Warm Medical Interior Designs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/oakv-clinic.md) - [Town-Like Children's Hospital](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/herzog-de-meuron.md) - [Vibrantly Designed Nursery Centers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/multichildcare-crche.md) - [Tent‑Filled Daycare Spaces](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/deya-day-care.md) - [Playful Contemporary Offices](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/playful-contemporary-office.md) - [Garden-Centric Health Centers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/carcavelos-health-complex.md)