Design Showcase: From Bank to Nouveau Clubhouse

A close-up look at Green Curve Studio’s design process and choices in converting an old bank building into a functional clubhouse/office for Kadan Orthodontics

Location: Devon, Pa

Square feet: 3,200

Designer: Jacek Slizynski, NCIDQ; Sherri Watson; and Susanne Slizynski—all with Green Curve Studio Inc

Project Time Frame: 3-month design process with a scheduled construction time of 4 months. Stretched to 12-month construction time due to COVID-19 shutdowns and delays in the product supply chains.

Completed: November 2020

Kadan Orthodontics came to Green Curve Studio with an interesting project: convert an old bank building into a functional orthodontic office to house a dual-specialty orthodontic and pediatric dental practice. The space posed several structural challenges and constraints that required creative solutions to give the practice what it wanted—quiet rooms for pediatric dental procedures with a “nouveau clubhouse” design aesthetic for the office located in an upscale Philadelphia neighborhood. The practice also wanted a minimal color palette with elegant finishes, special effect lighting, and ceiling designs that would project sophistication.

The challenges were many: Half the building was 2 feet higher, requiring interior ADA ramping; while a stairway leading to the second floor ran through the center of the space, requiring fire-rated demising enclosures. The Green Curve Studio team, however, was able to address these challenges head on and create a clubhouse/lounge feel, giving the space the look of a boutique European hotel. The space included hubs for “Instagramable” moments. The design team prepared all working plans, drawings, construction details, lighting design, ceiling, and casework design for permitting, bidding, and construction. The team also conducted an off-site construction follow up, a “rough-in” site visit, and a “punch-list” site visit to finally bring Kadan Orthodontics into a space that serves its brand.

Kadan Orthodontics Reception Desk — At reception and front desk, circular lighting features and seating were used to add an additional rhythmic layer to the space. The sofa and ottoman seating in the waiting area provides the lounge-like feel. The design team articulated surfaces through multiple soffit/header elements with extensive use of ribbed transversality elements. LED lighting was used in circular and linear configurations. The flooring materials used in the reception and waiting areas were carried through into the clinic area.

At reception and front desk, circular lighting features and seating were used to add an additional rhythmic layer to the space. The sofa and ottoman seating in the waiting area provides the lounge-like feel. The design team articulated surfaces through multiple soffit/header elements with extensive use of ribbed transversality elements. LED lighting was used in circular and linear configurations. The flooring materials used in the reception and waiting areas were carried through into the clinic area.

Clear glass panels with a 3M white film applied to each side create a “frosted glass” look without the drawbacks of real frosted glass which is a magnet for fingerprints and surface smudges. The wood slat ceiling feature warms up the interior, creating a visual delineation of spaces and serves as an acoustical baffle. Tubular LED luminaries were used between the slats.

Kadan Orthodontics Design Project — Trellis wood structures were used to add elements of transversality to create a sense of passage from one space to another. A wood and light trellis leads one past the brushing station and the ADA metal handrail becomes a design feature flowing into the treatment area. Green Curve Studio used upholstery fabrics and other finish materials with a large content of copper, silver, or zinc which deactivate viral and bacterial growth. The firm used large format Dekton (porcelain/quartz/glass) floor tile and a variety of nano materials for ease of maintenance.

Trellis wood structures were used to add elements of transversality to create a sense of passage from one space to another. A wood and light trellis leads one past the brushing station and the ADA metal handrail becomes a design feature flowing into the treatment area. Green Curve Studio used upholstery fabrics and other finish materials with a large content of copper, silver, or zinc which deactivate viral and bacterial growth. The firm used large format Dekton (porcelain/quartz/glass) floor tile and a variety of nano materials for ease of maintenance.

Green Curve Studio on orthodontic design trends:

The Gen Z and millennial impact. They like a less clinical new patient exam room that’s more like a sitting room, typically without an exam chair. With their digital lives, they favor computer-based or iPad presentations, and like to huddle rather than sitting across from a desk for a more personal connection. Given that they are more voyeuristic, transparency as part of the design is key, using translucent partitions, glass walls, etc.
Flex spaces are in. These non-designated work areas within the office layout can be used as call centers, instant consult spaces, or for holding virtual visits.
Growing demand for neuro-architecture. The concept considers how the designed environment impacts brain function, cognition, and emotions. This translates into incorporating soft geometry through furnishings, correct lighting temperature, and materials that reflect nature.
Emphasis on acoustical materials. These materials help compensate for the extensive use of glass walls and hard surfaces. Some of the products available include acoustical drywall, and lighting fixtures and translucent panels with acoustical attributes. These products can integrate with the interior space and replace fabric covered acoustical wall panels. OP