A Paradigm of Natural Design in Healthcare Spaces
Kimmel Studio proudly presents The Skin Center Westlake, a groundbreaking commercial medical spa in Westlake, OH. This project exemplifies the studio commitment to integrating architecture, interior design, and landscape architecture, creating a harmonious environment that redefines the traditional medical office experience.
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Gold 🏆 Winner
International Interior Design Awards 2024
The Skin Center Westlake
Health Care Interior Built
Firm
Kimmel Studio Architects
Designer
Dani Crawford
Design Team
Devin Kimmel, Dani Crawford
Location
Westlake, Ohio
Country
United States
Photographer/Copyright
Horgan Photography
A Natural Approach to Wellness
The design transcends the sterile aesthetic typically associated with healthcare spaces, embracing warm, natural materials and biophilic principles to foster serenity. Upon entering, patients are welcomed by a palette of warm wood-look millwork, textured tiles, and lush greenery, evoking the ambiance of a high-end spa.
Biophilic elements play a central role, incorporating living plants and organic textures that connect patients to nature and promote emotional well-being. This natural aesthetic not only enhances visual appeal but also supports relaxation and stress reduction, creating a space where patients and practitioners alike feel at ease.
Thoughtful Space Planning
The layout prioritizes flow and functionality, ensuring a seamless patient experience. The reception area, with its comfortable seating and soft lighting, sets a calming tone from the outset. Treatment rooms are designed with ergonomic furniture, soothing
tones, and subtle lighting to promote relaxation while enhancing practitioner efficiency.
For employees, Kimmel Studio designed administrative offices and break areas with the same attention to detail, ensuring a supportive and inspiring workspace. This cohesive approach fosters well-being, job satisfaction, and productivity, reflecting the studio commitment to holistic design.
Overcoming Challenges with Innovative Solutions
One of the most significant challenges was maintaining the serene, natural aesthetic while adhering to commercial medical building codes and budget constraints. To achieve this, the team employed cost-effective yet durable solutions:
● Laminate wood-look millwork: Offers the warmth and beauty of natural wood
while meeting budget and durability requirements.
● Fire-rated coatings for natural wood: Used on select wood elements to enhance
safety without compromising aesthetics.
● Material selection: Prioritized finishes that withstand heavy use, medical-grade
cleaning products, and the test of time.
Through meticulous planning and creative problem-solving, Kimmel Studio minimized combustible materials to under 10%, ensuring compliance without sacrificing the desired organic ambiance.
A Testament to Design Excellence
The Skin Center Westlake exemplifies Kimmel Studio’s dedication to blending functionality with aesthetic innovation. By overcoming challenges and pushing boundaries, the studio has created a space that prioritizes comfort, wellness, and the
human experience.
Patients and employees alike benefit from this thoughtfully designed environment, which transforms the perception of healthcare spaces. The Skin Center Westlake stands as a testament to the transformative power of design, seamlessly merging healthcare and aesthetics into a unified, inspiring whole.