Up and Adam [Ries]

FYI – Lancelot is considered to have been the greatest and most trusted of all the knights of the Round Table.

A few weeks ago I let on that I had taken on a freelance client for interior design services, as you can read in this post. Now I’m ready to spill all the exciting details! I was contacted by a local chiropractor who expressed interest in “revamping” his office. He asked if that was something I would be interested in helping him with. It was quite difficult to restrain my excitement as I calmly said, “Of course!!” After meeting with him and his staff to learn the function of each space in the office, we discussed ideas for a short time and I was off, floor plans in hand. Although the building already has a great flow and adequate patient space, I had to agree with the staff that a spa-inspired remodel would enhance their patient experience. The office was originally built in the 1970s, with an addition completed in the early 2000s. About two weeks after our initial meeting, I presented my ideas for what has become Phase 01, consisting of the main entry vestibule, waiting room and patient bathroom.

Because the thought of chiropractic adjustments can often cause anxiety and fear, I knew the entry and lobby must be a calm and comfortable space for patients waiting on their appointment.  Accessibility requirements also had to be maintained.

I mounted all of my ideas onto 3 boards, consisting of rendered floor plans, perspective drawings, furniture and finish selections, and inspirational imagery. Both doctors were pleased with what I presented and expressed eagerness to begin transforming their waiting room! A few changes have occurred from that original presentation to what is happening now, but the main design is essentially the same. Here is a rendered floor plan of the rooms of Phase 01 followed by a condensed version of the overall waiting room design.

The vestibule which you pass through from the main entrance is the south-west room. The lobby itself is a C shaped room with only one narrow window (south wall) and a bathroom in the south-east corner. The two north doors lead into the hallway of treatment rooms. Centered in the north wall is a counter and window into the receptionist area. The niche on the west wall is actually a closet area with a wall cabinet beside (formerly housing a built-in aquarium).

As the rooms were originally painted a consistent off-white, the rich green and beige paint I selected will instantly warm the entire space. The paint colors are Sherwin Williams 6143, Basket Beige, and 6151, Quiver Tan. The carpet selected is for the main lobby, while the ceramic tile will line the bottom half of the bathroom walls. The most notable feature of the room will be the slate wall fountain on the east wall, becoming the focal point and adding the soothing sound of trickling water. Last but not least, adding a few plants (unfortunately silk because of the very limited natural lighting) will complement the dark wood tones of the furniture and bring life and brighter color into the space.

All three rooms of Phase 01 have been painted, furniture is being ordered piece by piece and it won’t be long until the carpet and bath tile are installed. I am anxious to see the completed space, and am already beginning to think about what will become Phase 02 of the office remodel.

Since undertaking this project, I am still working part-time at the company where I interned. I also have two additional design clients whose projects will be fighting for time in my schedule very soon.

Freelancing feels like school again. I now have a reason to stay up way too late certain nights of the week. My desk is a disaster area of floor plans, sketches, drafting instruments, paint chips and Prisma markers. Calling manufacturers to request product literature, fabric samples and negotiate pricing. And I love it.

Next on my list of projects? Finding time to install a double window this weekend and designing some quick business cards for myself.