Pedra Silva Arquitectos . photos: © Pedra Silva Arquitectos . + AJ
We wanted the reception area to communicate with the outside walkway and flow into the public space. The ‘wrap-around’ ceramic wall design with curving corners helps bring movement and provides connection and continuity to the outside realm. The reception desk itself is made of concrete which joins this element to the floor and ceiling while limiting the use of excessive materials, and above the desk is one of our favourite Alvar Aalto-designed ‘hand grenade’ suspended lights. The corridor features the same concrete material as the reception desk making the transition less jarring as customers journey through the clinic.
Another key aspect involved the technical side of the design within the actual dental theatres. Over the years we have built up a deep understanding of workflow, equipment and procedures within world-class surgical and operating spaces. Practical and ergonomic solutions for technical equipment, instruments and waste disposal are also fundamental and must work seamlessly with any design concept. Working in tandem with the client’s consultants and suppliers we were able to ensure compatibility with all equipment and client working practices. From an aesthetic viewpoint, bright, white materials were applied to clinical areas with easily cleanable and highly resistant qualities, such is the demand for these spaces.
The overall result is a minimalist, free-flowing design which maximises the use of space. The custom-made ceramic wall and iconic furniture also work in tandem to create an interesting dynamic affecting surfaces, light and reflection.
The wide-ranging project further involved branding including the development of a client logo, graphic identity and business cards. Our team collaborated closely on this element to ensure the new branding not only complemented the architecture, but also helped promote ‘Maida Smiles’ character and ethos. The underlying brand design was therefore developed as a reinterpretation of the act of laughing, in turn creating a story around the circle and the smile – mirroring the ‘leitmotif’ ceramic discs.
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