If you have ever come across an unimpressive office fitout Sydney wide, then you know first-hand how the appearance of a medical centre matters just as much as the manners of health professionals themselves.
Thankfully, there has been a revolution of late, with health centres updating their interior spaces to provide therapeutic benefits.
At Consilo, we have been designing and creating sophisticated healthcare practices since the 1990s and see ourselves as part of the foundational movement to improve health settings.
We have turned countless medical practices into outstanding, functional, standards compliant spaces packed with solutions.
In this blog, we will cover some of our top design tips for a successful medical centre design or upgrade.
Create a Calming Atmosphere
A calm atmosphere tends to be not too cluttered or too bare. Nordic design is frequently utilised to create a minimal atmosphere that is neither too clinical nor corporate, however, any style can be used with the right amount of tact. Biophilic design is one such alternative that has been gaining a lot of traction of late. Biophilic design introduces natural design elements and references to nature to boost mood and create visual interest. Biophilic design elements can be added into the medical sphere through the use of nature images on wall panels, small pot plants (whether faux or real) and natural “earthy” materials such as exposed wood.
Choose Your Colour Palette Wisely
Light, bright colours create an airy effect, which also ensures that there are no dark corners that can become dirty without your noticing (something you will appreciate if small children visit your practice). Colour psychology can also be employed to make sure you’re choosing colours that actively nurture a calming, trustworthy atmosphere, without isolating any patients who have visual impairments. For example, depending on your clinic, you may wish to consider colour blind installations, or colour contrast elements designed to aid patients with dementia related vision changes.
Carpet, Floorboards, Tiles or Sheet Vinyl?
In patient-centred design, flooring materials must be carefully chosen to reduce the risk of infection. Other considerations, such as hygiene, odour control, stain resistance, moisture resistance and cleanability, all come into play long before it’s time to think about colour schemes and patterns. In order to meet Australian standards, your flooring will also need to be non-slip and suitable for the abilities of your patients.
If you are prepared to invest in regular cleaning services, then carpet may be an acceptable option. However, whether you prefer carpet, wooden floorboards, tiles or vinyl, your flooring type needs to be compliant for medical environments.
There are options within each category that resist infection, stains, odour, moisture and mould, but it’s advisable to work with a qualified designer-builder with extensive experience in the healthcare sector like Consilo in order to find the best option.
Finally, antimicrobial coatings can provide an extra layer of protection.
Make Use of The Entire Space
In healthcare settings, it’s important that patients are oriented toward reception the minute they step through the doors. The entire space should work to direct patients through the premises and keep them away from private consultation rooms and other restricted areas. There should also be enough space for patients to both enter and exit the building at the same time, and for wheelchair users. An intelligent design-driven approach to space is the best way to build a functional design.
Contact Consilo for Professional Medical Office Fitouts Australia-Wide
At Consilo, we design and create stunning healthcare practices that cover all aspects of space assessment, project management, council applications and relevant permits. We have decades of building and design experience specific to health settings and can provide services in hydraulics, equipment analysis, and engineer and consultant engagements.
