Intensive Care Units (ICUs) are highly technological environments where light and sound strongly influence patient comfort, orientation, and recovery. However, current ICU lighting is static, overly bright, and emotionally disconnected, disrupting circadian rhythms and contributing to stress and disorientation.

This project proposes Komora, a responsive lighting system that translates sound into light to complement existing sonic ambiances developed by Dr. Gijs Louwers. Komora dynamically adapts its brightness and colour temperature to the rhythm and tone of ambient sounds, creating a calm and supportive sensory environment.

The focus was on human-centered design, technical feasibility, and integration into existing ICU infrastructure. Through prototyping and user testing, Komora demonstrated that synchronized light and sound can reduce perceived tenseness, enhance comfort, and support circadian alignment without hindering clinical workflows.
By transforming sound into light, Komora shows how subtle, sensory-aware design can improve patient well-being and create more humane, restorative ICU environments.