We received the best news last week when we heard that two of our projects have been longlisted for the Health and Wellness Interior category of the first ever Dezeen awards! To say we are ecstatic is an understatement. We are so honoured to have made it not once, but twice onto the longlist among the best in international design, being judged by the very top international talent and some of our idols. It is like a dream. On foot of this recognition, we thought we’d introduce you to our longlisted projects. Today, Urbana Clinic on Clarendon Street in Dublin. All photography by Ruth Maria Murphy.
The brief for the Urbana laser hair removal clinic was to create a space that was unique, incorporated an original design and created a warmer, more inviting space for clients of both genders. KLD proposed a polished industrial design with a contemporary feel, with a clean and high-end look. The client wanted to ensure that the customer felt at ease throughout their visit, but also inspired and impressed by a luxurious and well-presented space. Key features included a concrete desk and custom concrete panelling, bespoke joinery and a corten steel shop front. Materials used included the corten steel, marble, white architectural grade concrete, brass and oak. Lush planting was used to soften the space with delicate lighting to contrast the structured, architectural design.
While Urbana was a huge challenge it was also a huge opportunity for creativity and innovation as the proposed design included seven therapy rooms, two consultation rooms, a reception/waiting area and retail display.
A project like this demands meticulous research and careful design acumen. The proposed design included seven therapy rooms, two consultation rooms, a reception/waiting area and retail display. The transformation from Urbana’s original premises to this new one could not have been more stark or dramatic. We looked at our client’s needs, their clients’ needs, their employees needs and the practical functionality of the space.
Acknowledging their new and desired target audience, we successfully made the transition from a feminine dominated presentation and facade to a more neutral industrial one, but one that was polished and therefore beautiful.
They say the devil is in the detail, and at KLD we know small details are so important, which is why they are considered for every project. Putting all these details together have ensured that Urbana looks, feels and sounds like a sanctuary, minding and comforting its clients in an audio-visually beautiful space where privacy and discretion requirements are met and exceeded, and the human experience of staff, clients and practitioners are tantamount. We believe this is a cutting-edge design, that meets each stakeholder’s requirement. This meticulous attention to detail and research led to the introduction of innovative features such as hidden waste disposal and ventilation and extraction functions in the treatment rooms. These innovative features single out Urbana from any of its competitors in Ireland, all without compromising on the design.
To ensure customers were afforded ultimate discretion, a separate male and female waiting area was created. Ceilings were painted in the same dark colour as the walls to create an almost cocoon-like feeling and seamless look emulating a warm space. All full height doors and walls were painted the same colour in order to read as one.
The whole design aesthetic provides a therapeutic feel acting as an oasis for customers coming in for what can be a tedious or painful process. This Urbana project is a template for future and or other laser hair removal businesses. A masterclass in space, material and function. The polished industrial feel contrasts and works beautifully with lush green plants that soften the space and provide the necessary calming tones.
While functional and practical, the end result is ultimately beautiful. With its striking, noticeable shop front and improved holistic experience with increased sales and bookings. The Urbana project has proved a milestone in KLD’s catalogue confirming the role of design as integral in any business or organisation but in particular in health and wellness, where a business can me made or broken according to the design. A truly 21st century laser hair removal sanctuary.
This was a wonderful project for interior architecture with an end result that is seen as a template for any future Urbana developments and indeed could be considered a best practice template for the intimate act of laser hair removal in a confined city centre space.