Urban Industrial masterfully blends raw, utilitarian aesthetics with local warmth and sophistication, creating a space that feels more like a contemporary gallery than a medical facility. Polished concrete floors and a feature wall of exposed brick are anchored by a striking desk crafted from reclaimed native Rimu and blackened steel. Overhead, the building’s ‘bones’, ductwork and piping, are intentionally exposed, celebrated rather than concealed, and illuminated by warm Edison bulb pendants. Large, Crittall-style windows flood the space with natural light, a nod to both classic factory design and modern Kiwi architecture. The waiting area would swap sterile seating for comfortable, deep-toned leather sofas and minimalist furniture, creating a calm, lounge-like atmosphere. To soften the industrial edge and ground it in Aotearoa, the design incorporates lush greenery, a living wall of native ferns, and displays bold art from local artists. This approach transforms the typically intimidating dental environment into a sophisticated and welcoming space that feels both edgy and reassuringly professional, subverting patient expectations from the moment they walk in.
