DESIGN SNAPSHOT

Just What the Doctor Ordered

Compiled by Amelia Boldaji / Photo courtesy of Elizabeth Neal

FOR PAUL HENRIQUES OF PREMIERE CONTRACTING, every job presents its own unique set of challenges – but when Dr. Steven Doering of Driftwood Family Dental approached him about a new offi ce remodel, there was one hurdle in particular that caught his attention: It had to be completed in about four months. Filled with ideas but on a fi xed timeline, the project utterly transformed a space that had previously been a blank slate – and proved that even a commercial design can dazzle with a dash of coastal chic.

Planked Ceiling

According to Paul, the ceiling was the centerpiece that really set the tone for this project. As one of the fi rst design decisions they made, these rough-cut cedar planks were individually stained twice over the course of three days to achieve a hue that’s reminiscent of weathered driftwood – tying its distinctive eff ect directly to the dental practice’s name, and matching it with several other driftwood-inspired accents throughout the offi ce.

Recessed Uplighting

With the ceiling as the main feature, it only seemed fi tting that at least one design concept would evolve to put it on prime display. Starting with essentially four bare walls, Paul constructed a soffi t around the entire room with recessed LED uplighting to give the space a soft glow – and to give eagle-eyed offi ce visitors a glimpse of the soothing deep-sea blue paint behind the wooden ceiling planks.

Reception Area

As part of their design collaboration on this space, Dr. Doering sent Paul numerous pictures of other visually interesting dental offi ces, including one with a reception area that particularly appealed to him – which Paul was able to recreate in a nearly identical manner. With its dropped middle section and supporting columns, this open workspace is fi nished with a white quartz countertop and pairs perfectly with the old coastal cottage vibe of the shiplap wall in the background.

Vinyl Plank Flooring

In keeping with the driftwood theme, it made sense to match the tone of the fl oor with the ceiling – while also bearing in mind the heavy foot traffi c concerns of a commercial space. Fortunately, they were able to fi nd a highly durable luxury vinyl plank fl ooring that both complements the other components of the offi ce and will be able to withstand the high-humidity coastal climate for many years to come.