One Man’s Junk Is Another Man’s Treasure

When I’m working on a dental office design project I am always looking for interesting materials that will help me to create a unique space and interior branding message that is consistent with my client’s overall branding. One of the sources for fun and interesting materials is the local architectural salvage store. At Doc’s Architectural Salvage I can find all sorts of interesting treasures that can be incorporated into a project to help give it that special something that will make a memorable impact on the dentist’s patients.
For example, old doors are very versatile. Old barn doors can be brought inside and used as part of a conference room or meeting area where double doors are required. Another neat feature is to use a door as the top for a conference room table. The unusualness of this alone is enough to stimulate an emotional response in patients and have them talking about their trip to the dentist to all of their friends. Of course, this is what we want out of the interior design!
The rich patina and distressed nature of so many of the objects to be found at a salvage store go a long way toward setting a definite mood. By choosing the right pieces, richly worn but not broken down, a real feeling of comfort and hominess can be achieved. Additionally, so many pieces capture a grandeur that isn’t often seen in late 20th century architecture and furnishings.
I’m also a big fan of mixing and matching materials and textures. So, when I use something like an old chair or sofa, I like to breath new life into the piece by adding new cushions or upholstery. New throw pillows also go a long way to helping to create a rich and comforting mood. With the older pieces throw pillows made of leather really add a subtle up-scale touch to a waiting room. Of course, we have to be conscious to use leather that has been treated for commercial applications. After all, while the room may look like someone’s living room, it is going to receive a lot more wear-and-tear than one!
Also, adding a resin panel with an interesting pattern or color in place of glass in doors can help provide cohesion to a theme. This feature is also a good way to allow natural light to pass into hallways from waiting areas without diminishing privacy. I recently used Lumicor’s Botanicals in Natural Leaf in the French Doors leading from the waiting room to the treatment rooms as part of the remodel of Dr Robin Raub’s offices in Noblesville, Indiana. This same leaf theme was also picked up in the upholstery fabric and coordinated with the framed prints of woodland ducks that Dr Raub has throughout his office.
So, even though the office is getting a facelift, this does not mean that everything in it has to be brand new. Remember, one man’s junk, with a little creativity and innovation, can become another man’s treasure that will help to create a unique interior design and interior branding message that sets the new office apart from all it’s competitors.