Excerpt: Grafted Skin designed by Terra Firma Architects is an example of the ability of design to seamlessly merge functionality and hospitality. The goal was to maintain the clinic’s core operation while giving patients a feeling of warmth and ease. The design sought to create a strong statement, distinguishing itself from the turmoil, in the midst of the constant hustle and bustle of an urban intersection.
Project Description
[Text as submitted by architect] In the bustling heart of Ahmedabad city, a unique challenge presented itself: how to seamlessly blend the clinical precision of a skin clinic with the warmth of a hospitality project. The client’s vision was clear from the outset: a space that transcended the sterile atmosphere of a hospital, instead offering a welcoming environment that celebrated healing and recovery. The original plan involved renovating a small bungalow on the ground floor, but as discussions progressed, the client opted for a fresh start.
Thus began the journey of creating a composite structure, combining the old with the new, and completely revamping the clinic’s identity. The objective was twofold: to ensure the clinic retained its essential functionality while exuding a sense of comfort and ease for patients. In the midst of an urban crossroad’s constant hustle and bustle, the design aimed to make a bold statement, setting itself apart from the chaos.
Conceptual Transformation: Exposed brick emerged as the cornerstone of the outer façade. Its timeless appeal, when used as screens to enhance privacy and filter light, contributed to a cozy and inviting atmosphere. This choice broke away from the traditional clinical aesthetic, ensuring the clinic felt more like a haven than a hospital.
Inside, wood and brass took center stage, complemented by soft pastel hues that injected life into the space. Plants strategically placed near windows and along facades breathed fresh air into the clinic, fostering a soothing ambiance essential for post-procedure recovery. Pastel tones throughout, from reception areas to surgical spaces, created a serene environment, promoting tranquility and peace.
The combination of exposed brick, wood, brass, and pastel tones formed a cohesive design, exuding timeless elegance. The integration of plants added a touch of nature and vitality, making the space feel vibrant and refreshing. Every aspect of the design aimed to create an environment that met both functional requirements and the need for serenity.
The Design Journey: The Outpatient Department served as the starting point for the transformation. Challenges abounded in arranging various elements while maintaining cleanliness and organization. A terrazzo backsplash extended from the basin to the bed area, with a versatile brass rod holding cushions, mirrors, napkins, and circular profile lights. Wooden finishes in storage units set the tone for the wood and brass theme, which extends to doors and medicine displays.
Mint blue hues were introduced in the reception and main corridor, providing a pop of colour while keeping the wood and brass elements intact. To infuse creativity and personality into the clinic, commissioned wall art adorned the walls. As the project evolved, a first floor was added to accommodate expanding needs. The lower walls were fortified with mosaic tiles to withstand the rigours of trolleys and machines.
Wooden strips were thoughtfully placed throughout the space to maintain cohesiveness and meet the client’s specifications. Different coloured mosaics were employed in various spaces to evoke distinct emotions and atmospheres. The design seamlessly combined practicality and aesthetics, resulting in a visually appealing and efficiently functioning skin clinic.
In the heart of Ahmedabad, this transformed skin clinic stands as a testament to the power of design to harmoniously merge functionality with warmth and hospitality. It is a haven amidst urban chaos, offering patients not only healing but also a serene and welcoming experience.
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