The majority of surveyed Australian’s will visit their GP more than 3 times a year, that’s over 248 visits during their lifetime. This number doesn’t begin to factor in any additional dental, cosmetic, specialist medical or hospital appointments. So, with a notable portion of your patient’s time spent in medical facilities, discussing one of the most important topics – their health. Why has the medical sector been left behind when it comes to design + architecture? We think it’s time to start reimagining the traditional medical experience, starting with your next medical fit-out.
If you have ever treated a patient that suffers from ‘white coat syndrome’ then you already know the importance of building healthcare centres or medical clinics that help reduce anxiety and enable positive health outcomes. Creating spaces that distract, calm or even engage patients can increase their desire to see medical professionals, help reduce health-associated symptoms such as high blood pressure, and in some cases even impact a client’s sense of wellbeing. Furthermore, redesigning medical spaces to be aesthetically pleasing or even fun, can reduce stigma or perceived biases surrounding services such as mental health check-ups or gynaecologist visits. So, you want to start reimaging your fit-out? Before you press play on any elevator music or start hanging ‘keep calm & carry on’ posters – let’s talk design.
The quality + attention to detail that can be afforded at varying budgets and scopes is staggering when it comes to medical and wellness designs. In Australia, you are surrounded by talented designs who are constantly aspiring for better. However, sometimes it can be difficult to picture the medical fit-out direction you may want to take. Thankfully, international & local healthcare clinics are producing design inspiration that truly reimagines the patient experience.
Located in New York City is a boutique-like gynaecology, wellness and primary care clinic called Tia. This healthcare space was reimagined for women by women – paring a retail-like environment with residential-style exam + waiting rooms. The clinic fit-out looks nothing like a typical doctor’s office and was built to open conversations up between women and medical professionals. Designed by the LAB at Rockwell Group, this space features an energy-filled design including colourful prints created by female artists. The Tia clinic sets a new standard for women health services, priding itself on providing a highly personalised & compassionate experience, as the modern medical home for women.
Designed by Collectivus, this cosmetic surgery creates a luxurious and inviting environment without the space feeling clinical or cold. The decision to have a treatment or surgery with a plastic surgeon is never made lightly, and therefore the clinic must make patients feel confident in their decision & provide a positive experience. The Sharp Clinic features comfortable private seating in an open + light-filled space, that includes entertainment options & a stylish kitchen. The design is balanced through doses of warmth and polished features – showcasing superior finishes, sophisticated elements & perfectly executed detailing. The clinic truly succeeds in creating the ultimate in-patient experience, with an environment that feels more like a high-end spa than a medical space.
Cingulum Health located in Rosebery Sydney has successfully captured the essence of biophilic design to reimagine how their healthcare services are delivered. The neurological clinic takes a holistic approach, incorporating biophilic elements that help patients feel more connected to their surroundings. Too often clients go into medical settings that are overwhelming and not conducive to recovery whatsoever, however Cingulum understands this experience & are committed to optimising their patients’ outcomes through design. This multi-disciplinary practice combines science + evidence-based medicine but, unlike a typical medical space, is enveloped in a sense of warmth and comfort. Cingulum features indoor gardens, fluted Tasmanian oak feature walls and an abundance of natural light and airflow to create a sense of both physical + mental wellness. The stunning yet affordable medical fit-out successfully radiates tranquillity while encouraging enhanced healing.
Tucked away in Berlin’s city centre is a dental practice like no other. This clinic situated at a busy traffic junction near the city’s railway line, takes full advantage of its location. The Urban Dentist was designed by Studio Karhard and takes the concept of a “cool bar”. The space features light-up walls with LED strip lights, circular pink seating pods, mirrored partitions and colourful stone surfaces with gold-hued detailing. The trendy dental space creates an atmosphere where patients can feel relaxed and fearless – avoiding typical dental fit-out elements such as white + glossy surfaces. This dental office does an incredible job of distracting anxious clients and reimagining the dental experience for the modern customer.