Grand Rapids, Michigan2024
Eastown Pediatric Dentistry
Eastown Pediatric Dentistry
After practicing pediatric dentistry locally for a number of years, our client decided to establish her own practice in 2023, Eastown Pediatric Dentistry (EPD). Her vision was to create a modern pediatric dental collaborative, with the mission to create a patient-centered practice where prevention and education are the focus.
Photographer
Geoff Shirley
Builder
Construction Simplified
After assessing multiple local potential spaces, the selected suite was part of a five-tenant mixed-use block. The property offered great exposure, excellent spatial opportunities, and the required infrastructure to service a dentist office. Formerly an exercise studio, the existing space required a full reconfiguration to align with the dentistry’s programmatic and equipment needs. Our work focused on shaping the interior to reflect the character of the practice.
Removing walls and ceilings offered the potential to expose the existing structure to express a more loft / urban design aesthetic. The design crafts a modern tone by subtly blending the exposed roof structure with cedar finishes, felt wall coverings, and an artful color palette. The hygiene and treatment rooms are organized by a central circulation space and placed along the perimeter of the suite to maximize natural light. Cedar ceilings in select areas provide warmth and calmness to the patient experience. The reception, hygiene, and treatment rooms take advantage of the existing structure’s volume, by exposing its existing wood framing.
Key patient-centered areas included a kids zone and a prize zone. The kids zone offers a getaway for children, situated adjacent to the waiting area. Patients are welcomed by entering through a brightly-colored arched entry. The play area is finished with a felt wall covering to provide a soft inviting atmosphere while also absorbing sound. The prize zone is located near the check-out desk, offering sustainably responsible prizes and rewards. Thoughtful sustainability was an important factor throughout the entire design process. Site selection, material finishes, reuse of building systems, daylighting, and efficient core dental operation procedures were key aspects to meet the team’s sustainability goals. The site location prioritizes walkability and public transit in addition to the included parking. Material selection maximizes recycled content and provides features that improve the overall air quality and wellness of the space. Plants, natural wood finishes, abundant daylight, and soft felt materials prioritize mental wellness by providing a calming atmosphere for patients.
The final result is a modern, welcoming and sustainable office that reflects the owner’s passion for patient-centered care. MMA’s work with Eastown Pediatric Dentistry reflects their core principles based on trust, community, sustainability, inclusion, education, prevention, and fun.
