Silver Winner of the International Architecture & Design Awards 2025
Architect / Designer:
Dani Crawford
Studio:
Kimmel Studio Architects
Design Team:
Devin Kimmel, Dani Crawford
Copyright:
Horgan Photography
Country:
United States
This wellness facility redefines the conventional aesthetic of healthcare spaces by embracing warmth, nature, and tranquillity. Departing from the sterile and clinical environments commonly associated with medical interiors, the design introduces biophilic principles and natural textures to create a calming, spa-like experience for patients and practitioners alike.
Upon arrival, visitors are greeted by a palette of warm wood-look millwork, textured tiles, soft lighting, and abundant greenery. These elements work in harmony to foster emotional well-being and relaxation. Living plants and organic finishes not only elevate the visual appeal of the space but also establish a subtle connection to nature, known to reduce stress and improve overall patient comfort.
The interior layout was carefully developed to enhance flow and functionality. The reception area sets a soothing tone with its inviting seating and diffused lighting. Treatment rooms prioritise ergonomic comfort, neutral tones, and acoustical privacy, offering an environment conducive to healing and focused care. Behind the scenes, administrative offices and staff break areas were designed with the same thoughtful attention, promoting employee satisfaction, well-being, and productivity.
A central design challenge was maintaining this serene, natural aesthetic while navigating the strict requirements of commercial medical codes and project budget constraints. Creative material choices and compliance strategies were implemented to preserve the intended look and feel.Laminate wood-look millwork offered the visual warmth of natural wood with the durability and affordability necessary for a high-use medical environment.
Select wood elements were treated with fire-rated coatings to meet safety regulations without compromising design intent.
Finishes were chosen for their resilience, compatibility with medical-grade cleaning products, and long-term durability.
Combustible materials were limited to less than 10% of the interior, aligning with fire safety requirements while sustaining a cohesive organic atmosphere.
This project represents a thoughtful balance between regulatory rigor and design excellence. The result is a healthcare space that places the human experience at its core—inviting, nurturing, and emotionally resonant.
By merging aesthetics and functionality, this facility reshapes the expectations of what a medical environment can be. It is a testament to the transformative power of design to elevate healthcare, blending nature, comfort, and innovation into a space that supports healing for all who enter.
Kimmel Studio Architects
Kimmel Studio Architects approaches every project as a work of art — crafted to reflect the needs, values, and identity of each client. Led by Devin Kimmel, a trained architect and landscape architect, the studio brings a holistic design vision that integrates buildings seamlessly into their natural surroundings. From homes and museums to memorials, gardens, and stadiums, every project blends unmatched quality with thoughtful detail. Rooted in a deep understanding of architectural history, the studio designs both traditional and contemporary works with authenticity and innovation. Whether restoring a historic site or creating bold modern forms, Kimmel Studio’s respect for context and craft defines its work. With extensive experience in Chesapeake Bay waterfront design and preservation, the team expertly navigates both design and regulatory landscapes to deliver timeless, site-sensitive architecture.


