Located in Taichung, Taiwan, this 120-square-meter pharmacy, designed by Waterfrom Design, is a testament to the innovative spirit of healthcare. The design is a departure from the conventional pharmacy, with a central laboratory table, greenery, glass shelves, and copper details designed to encourage a more natural interaction between pharmacists and customers. The central table, crafted from solid wood, is a century-old tree trunk seamlessly integrated with a glass portion where moss and plants thrive. 
Copper lighting fixtures adorn the ceiling, while a selection of greenery hangs overhead, creating a forest-like atmosphere. This open and inviting feel extends throughout the space, with several laboratory-style tables providing comfortable seating for conversations. Traditional brown bottles are displayed on glass shelves lining the pharmacy walls, and test tubes are secured on copper racks, juxtaposing laboratory equipment with potted plants. 
Waterfrom says, “The design harked back to the original purpose of medicine — extracting molecules from nature to synthesize healing drugs, and thus came the idea of establishing a green space in the laboratory, combining seemingly conflicting qualities of the primitive and the technological.” To further contrast the typical pharmacy aesthetic, the store’s walls are covered in pebbles, providing a rough texture. A copper spiral staircase, resembling a bottle opener, serves as a reference to DNA structure and stands as a centerpiece.
The upper level showcases a laser-cut perforated pattern of inlaid triangles, evoking a visual of “scattered leaves.” Color is introduced through bright panels placed on the glass shelves, transforming the traditional three-generation pharmacy. The pharmacy’s innovative design raises the bar for healthcare in Taiwan, redefining health and emphasizing well-being. It seamlessly blends functional aesthetics with experimental spirit, creating a space that is both welcoming and inspiring.
Project Information:
Architect: Waterfrom Design
Location: Taichung, Taiwan
Area: 120 sqm
Year: 2023
Photographer: Kuomin Lee
