August 2010 Newsletter
Dental Couple Unveil Plans for Premier Llano Dental Facility
This fall, construction will begin on an environmentally friendly Tuscan-inspired dental office for owners Chip and Jennifer Parrish, D.D.S. The modern, yet rustic 3,200 sq. ft. structure, located at the corner of South Hickory Street, will be the first building greeting visitors as they drive into Llano on Highway 71.
With a metal roof, limestone facade, intricate stone walkways, and dry creek beds winding through native hill coutry landscaping, the exterior design, developed by Moman Architects, is striking and blends perfectly with the surroundings. Green concepts are also being incorporated such as a water cistern for collecting rainfall.
The interior is expertly designed by Practice Design Group to assure optimum function and use of space. As seasoned practioners, the Parrish’s were seeking additional clinical support areas and efficient placement of their advanced equipment so it did not dominate the layout.
“A primary design goal was the integration of technology within a comfortable and richly decorated office,” says Pat Carter, IIDA, Practice Design Group.
Pat, a registered Interior Designer, partners with her husband Jeff, a former dentist, to create stylish and streamlined dental businesses that take into account everything from procedural focus and patient demographics to equipment choices and desired aesthetics.
Westridge Construction [link to www.westridgeconstruction.com] is scheduled to have Parrish Family & Cosmetic Dentistry ready for move-in spring 2011. This is the second successful undertaking of the Practice Design Group, Moman Architects team and they are anticipating many more to come.
Designing for the Healthcare Industry: A 21st Century Niche
The healthcare industry is one of the nation’s largest and strongest, providing a myriad of services to millions of citizens. Healthcare environments have changed dramatically from the early 20th century where utilitarian structures might house pale green walls, greige room dividers and institutional furniture. Today, many hospitals, surgery centers, medical and dental offices now rival modern hotels and stylish retailers in design, appeal and functionality.
Interior designers and architects specializing in the healthcare sector understand the importance of balancing high quality materials, efficient space planning, and ADA compliance with a creative aesthetic. To stay competetive, medical professionals must employ the latest tools and technology available while ensuring patients have a pleasant experience that meets their sophisticated expectations. Several key elements including color, finishes, lighting, furnishings, art and accessories, complement the practical yet appealing spaces.
Manufacturers have also made great strides in offering unique commercial options from fashionable antimicrobial flame retardant fabric to more comfortable furniture.
Renowned interior designer and Washington, D.C.- based Principal of Perkins+Will, Tama Duffy Day notes, “Healthcare facilities have come so far, and with great opportunities for the future.”