
Thin rays of light filter through ornate wooden-latticed blinds and stained glass windows, illuminating the patchwork floor, which dazzles with its myriad colors and patterns. Sophisticated golden-rimmed wall lamps suggest homage to the iconic Orient Express and plush seats adorned with elegant floral patterns and a refined wooden bar counter create an inviting ambiance for casual conversation or reverie.
This setting may sound like that of a grand hotel lobby, but it is in fact the interior of Narrative 8811—a wheelchair-accessible elevator bus built to spec for Fuke Hospital in Saitama Prefecture, northwest of Tokyo. Conceived by Dr. Takaki Fuke, the hospital’s chairman, and brought to life by the esteemed industrial designer Eiji Mitooka, this striking vehicle aims to provide patients with extraordinary experiences.