Towards a More Empathetic Hospital Environment Through Furniture

What would it feel like to enter a hospital that welcomes you gently and compassionately? Partanen & Lamusuo Ltd. had the opportunity to answer this question when they won the invitation competition to redesign the main lobby and phlebotomy areas at Kuopio University Hospital (KUH) in 2008. The win also allowed them to design the furniture for the spaces, leading to the creation of Palad’s TUMA furniture family.

“Our goal was to rethink hospital design and create spaces where waiting and being are as pleasant as possible. The ergonomic TUMA furniture at KUH reflects softness and biological inspiration: there are no sharp edges, reflecting the natural curves of the human body,” say Palad’s lead designers Partanen & Lamusuo.

Partanen & Lamusuo made the KUH public spaces approachable and increased comfort for all users, from staff to visitors. The natural forms and imagery of the space and furniture bring calmness and well-being, creating a human-centered environment. Natural light and carefully placed views of the outdoors are part of the overall experiential quality of the spaces.

A standout feature in the main lobby is the custom-designed, upholstered bench group by Palad, positioned around the sculptural stair support beam designed by Partanen & Lamusuo. The backrests of the benches follow the natural forms of the supporting beam. The silver-grey fabric of the sofas blends seamlessly with the carved silver surface of the staircase, creating a harmonious and elegant ensemble.

“The ergonomic TUMA furniture at KUH reflects softness and biological inspiration: there are no sharp edges, reflecting the natural curves of the human body.”

Organic Harmony of Space and Furniture

The renovation opened up walls that previously defined the main lobby at KUH, creating a curving, organically cohesive space reminiscent of the TUMA aesthetic. Palad’s TUMA furniture family continues this concept on a smaller scale. The TUMA pieces echo the soft, flowing forms of the space and complete the sense of spatial unity.

“Rectangular, sharp-edged furniture did not suit the oval-shaped main lobby, so we designed TUMA furniture that curves organically to fit the space. Softly draped curtains around the lobby’s columns frame the area and create a serene atmosphere. People’s movements flow peacefully through the curving shapes of the facility,” describe Partanen & Lamusuo.

The inventive design of the TUMA sofas considers different types of users. The seating depth varies across the sofa, so everyone can find a comfortable spot where the back is supported and the feet reach the floor. The design makes sitting effortless and natural. At the same time, it introduces visual rhythm and gives the furniture an attractive, lively form language.

Versatility Through Design

The backrest of the TUMA sofa functions as a traditional support, but its design also opens up many practical possibilities. A convenient magazine holder can be integrated into the center, enhancing the functionality of the space and providing users with an easy storage solution. Both backrest options are used in the KUH main lobby.

Along the glass-walled corridor leading from the lobby, Palad designed TUMA sofas with practical tabletops integrated into the backrests. These work surfaces offer medical students and other users a comfortable place to work or take a break. The TUMA sofa is not just a seat—it is a versatile place for work and rest, supporting the diverse needs of its users.

The design and arrangement of TUMA furniture encourage multifunctional use. Visitors can easily sit down to chat with strangers or retreat to a private spot if they wish. The flexibility of the furniture solutions creates a warm and inviting atmosphere in the lobby, where both spontaneous interactions and moments of quiet can be part of everyday life.

Order, Flexibility, and Special Moments

For the café in the KUH main lobby, Palad designed TUMA tables that are permanently fixed to the floor. The goal was to create a solution where the furniture would remain in place during daily activity. This gives the tables a clear, defined position, contributing to the space’s rhythm and sense of order. The fixed structure brings calm and organization to a busy café environment, while carefully positioned elements enhance usability and aesthetic cohesion.

For the meeting room adjacent to the main lobby, Palad designed a custom-made conference table. The elliptical table serves as the focal point of the room, with integrated conferencing technology. Its design supports both formal meetings and more relaxed gatherings.

“From the start, versatility was central to the meeting room design. Primarily, the space serves as a work and meeting area for staff, but its proximity to the café means it can also be booked for a patient’s birthday celebration or for quiet coffee moments with loved ones. Designed as a flexible cabinet, the room can accommodate medical presentations and other events,” explain Partanen & Lamusuo.