First Impressions Count: Design a Dental Reception Area

Posted by HJT Design

Investing in your dental office reception allows you to create the right impression, attract and keep clients. You need to create a warm, attractive and tranquil environment, which begins with the design choices you make for your reception area. Think of ideas that make it feel cozy, welcoming and homey, and translate it to other spaces.

Admittedly, traditional dental design ideas leave you with little room for innovation. Throw away the rulebook and start looking for inspiration from spaces that make you feel warm and comfortable such as your grandmother’s kitchen, your favorite boutique hotel or an image from your childhood holidays. You can translate your favorite colors, textures, and scents into design elements that will transform the reception area into a warm, welcoming space.

Color

Different colors affect people differently; you need to understand the impact color choices have on your space before settling on a color scheme.

Reds work well in commercial establishments as they imply wealth and energy. They stimulate excitement and may aggravate anxiety for people who already dread visiting a dentist.

Sophisticated blacks and purples create an elegant color scheme but may detract patients from your friendly image.

Greens are soothing and natural; however, they are largely associated with institutions.

Blues are quite relaxing but can make patients feel like time is passing more slowly.

Looking at these examples, you might need to combine two or more colors to find the right color scheme. For example, you can introduce green into the room through plants, or bring yellows in form of artwork or décor pieces placed at different points in the room. Make a list of colors you want to use and work with your designer to identify the best combination for your dental office reception.

Lighting

Lighting relates directly to how people feel. A dimly lit reception can make your patients feel sad, angry or depressed. Introduce as much natural light as you can into the room, which makes it feel airy and restful. You can add on to the natural light with an artificial light that mimics natural light or mood lighting if you are looking for a specific aesthetic. During the design, consider having the light from different directions to create a sense of balance.