Cradle to Memories

ABOUT

To commemorate the Mount Elizabeth Hospital’s first major refurbishment project since its establishment in 1979, Cradle to Memories: Objects Rebirthed from 45 Years of Mount Elizabeth Hospital showcases ten objects from the hospital that have been rebirthed into timeless keepsakes by industrial design students from the National University of Singapore (NUS). 

Led by Associate Professor Hans Tan from the NUS Division of Industrial Design, students transformed 10 selected objects from the hospital that were being replaced as part of its makeover, such as phlebotomy chairs, baby cots, as well as lightboxes, medical storage bins and lamps. In addition to the medical equipment, there were also handrails, call bells, clocks, patient gowns and even the wall tiles from the hospital facade. 

Tasked to reimagine the objects beyond the healthcare setting, the students redesigned each materially while acknowledging their inherent quality and character. They were also inspired by memories shared by long-time staff from the hospital, which have also been documented in a video and book created as part of the exhibition. For instance, retired patient gowns have been turned into pillow sets that honour the work of hospital surgeons and seamstresses. The original wall tiles of the hospital were also repurposed into a sound installation that showcases their historic significance and overlooked beauty. 

Creative direction and exhibition design by Couple, research and text by In Plain Words.

ORGANISER

Mount Elizabeth Hospital

As the leading private hospital in Singapore and in the region, Mount Elizabeth Hospital (MEH) has been serving generations of families since 1979. Renowned for its comprehensive range of medical care and depth of clinical expertise, MEH continues to pursue medical excellence through innovation while remaining committed to providing quality care.

CO-ORGANISER

Hans Tan

Hans Tan is a designer-maker, curator, and associate professor at the Division of Industrial Design, National University of Singapore. 

CONTACT

Name: Hans Tan
Email Address: [email protected]

Top image: Image courtesy of Mount Elizabeth Hospital

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