Dermatology Clinique D is designed to acknowledge human wellbeing over medical gear

Compiled by Pari Syal

Photography: Raphaël Thibodeau; courtesy V2com

Read Time: 2 mins

Reception desk

Ar. L. McComber ltée transforms a trivial space in Quebec, into a cutting-edge and welcoming dermatology clinic…

Comfort is of paramount importance for patients suffering from sensitive skin ailments related to stress; and dermatologist, Dr. Danielle Brassard wants her patients to relax and be comforted as soon as they enter her clinic.

Waiting room

Consequently, the waiting room offers the most breathtaking view of the entire space and patients are invited to take off their shoes and help themselves to coffee/tea, while they await their turn.

Using light – which is a critical component of any dermatological treatment – as the starting point, the design team at L. McComber has opened up the space with an open plan, with translucent elements serving different functions within the clinic, letting the abundant natural light filter in all around. Enveloped wall-to-wall in acoustic tiles, the ceiling is left exposed to make the area feel more spacious.

 

Reception desk with light therapy machines behind glass capsules

Light therapy machines sit imposingly in the centre, behind reception, whilst the curved translucent glass walls that encapsulate them give away their function, as they emit an entrancing purple light, when in operation. A long, solid ash reception desk wraps around this central core, with an entrance on either end: dermatology (main entrance) and light therapy (secondary entrance).  

 

Examination Rooms

Break-out area

Moving the consultation rooms away from the exterior wall, a bright and lively service corridor facilitates nurses, technicians and physicians to move about their chores comfortably, away from the curious glances of the patients. Six examination rooms, featuring frosted glass ceilings, form a long white wall punctuated by six high wooden doors. With its imposing opalescent glass wall and lowered ceiling, the relaxation room for the clinic’s professionals looks like a glowing cube.

 

3D parametric logo

Natural light is supplemented by programmable LEDs hung high as well as recessed to suit the various spaces and functions. All signage is designed in collaboration with graphic designer Atelier Chinotto using a sleek and understated font; a high point being the 3D parametric extrusion of the 2D logo, where the depth of the grooves offers a stunning play of light and shadow.

 

Phototherapy Desk

Clinique D endorses how a complex, specialized care space does not necessarily have to be dominated by technological equipment. It can be inspired by the human warmth of the people that inhabit it and the place that it calls home.