On Brand COMMERCIAL Design

BY JORY GATTIS, IBB DESIGNER

jory@ibbdesign.com

@jorya.gattis on Instagram

Photography by AD Media Group

I initially met Dr. Thomas Grant at a dinner party back in 2016, and we became fast friends! Shortly thereafter, he also became my dentist and client. I’m often hesitant working with friends, but I was thrilled when tasked with bringing his new office vision to life. While medical spaces may not feel like a creative opportunity, his unconventional ideas got me super excited about this project. By the end of our first sit down, I thought he had completely lost his mind, and I couldn’t have been more thrilled! His descriptions and inspiration photos were somewhere between a high-end pop art gallery and a Gucci boutique, and I’ll be darned if that’s not what we made happen!

Much like his meticulous eye with dentistry, Dr. Grant had specific visions for everything - from the carpets to the art lights. All these things combined allowed us to create a workspace encompassing what he loves, while simultaneously sharing them with the community. Illuminated chattering teeth caricatures by local artist, Lindsay Ekstrom of LX Artworks, line the hallways, and custom wallpapers by Ashley Leftwich and Sarah English, owners of Ever Atelier, are featured in the space. You’ll also see several sweet tooth-themed sculptures and other pieces by Tyler Shields and Olivia Bonilla.

When we began the design process for the interior, Grant had fallen in love with a black and white tiger print fabric that acted as our jumping off point. The task was then for me to create a functional layout and source just the right hospitality grade frames in contrast fabrics that would wear well in a commercial setting. We then found a practical way to feature our inspiration fabric with commercial grade durability. Next, we added industrial tables and lighting to juxtapose the more delicate fabric. These elements give the eye a place to rest as it wanders through the various points of interest.

Throughout the whole process, I worked alongside our vendors to not only ensure that our selections were sensible, but also to keep everything on track for our tight timeline. With a confirmed grand opening deadline, there were many emails, revisions, and favors called in, but we were able to make it happen. Before the first patients walked through the doors, I was there with my crew to lay rugs, place furniture, and start styling. And just like any other design project, Dr. Grant was left with growing room for the space to evolve as he continues to curate more art.

Yet another thing that made Dental Care of Frisco one of D Magazine’s Best Dentists of 2022 is his team, and I’m not just talking about the amazing ladies who keep the place rocking and rolling! Therapy dog Dolly Mae @dollymaethefrenchie and her nephew Elvis @elvisuptosumthing can regularly be seen making their rounds, napping at the front desk, and most important, providing love and attention to those of us who get a little more anxious when it’s time to hop in that chair.

If more commercial spaces took their cue from Dr. Grant, we would be lining up for our bi-annual cleanings and wouldn’t have to lie nearly as much about our flossing habits! Dental Care of Frisco is not only made special by the beautiful environment, but also the smiles and laughter that fill the suites. Everyone who works here truly practices what Dolly (Parton) preached. “If you see somebody without a smile, give ‘em one of yours!"

For more information on Dental Care of Frisco, visit www.dentalcareoffrisco.com.