Architects and knowledge transfer in hospital systems: The introduction of Western hospital designs in Japan (1918-1970)

摘要

This article addresses hospitals as medical technology in itself and discusses the evolution of hospital design. As a case study, it focuses on Japan from 1918 to 1970. Hospital systems in this country experienced a major shift between the prewar and postwar periods. While the prewar period was characterised by the domination of numerous private small hospitals in urban areas, the postwar reconstruction was based on the extension of large public hospitals. This article demonstrates the major roles that architects played in introducing hospital designs in Japan and adapting the Western functional model for use in the country.