COHN PLASTIC SURGERY

Vestavia Hills, Alabama

The design concept for the Cohn Plastic Surgery medical practice is to create a quiet relaxing sanctuary with a spa-like environment and a relaxing experience for patients undergoing complex medical procedures often provided in an institutional environment.

The building design is a pristine white structure of painted brick and stucco with cedar trellis’s sited in a quiet, woodsy setting. Inside and out, the building offers patients and care providers a tranquil, calming environment.

To achieve the purposeful, unique aesthetic goal for this medical practice, the Williams Blackstock architecture and interiors team worked in close partnership with the surgeon and staff. The resulting design optimizes their level of service by merging state-of-the-art surgery and clinic requirements with a gentler atmosphere for patients and staff. The exterior elevations, axial interior plan, and intentional selection of finishes—lighting, furniture, fabrics, even the signage—together impart reassurance, calm, and comfort.

The patient-oriented, empathetic sensibility is further underscored by a well-organized floor plan with corridors that axially terminate in exterior courtyards and large bay windows that bring light and transparency throughout the entire interior space. A small, landscaped courtyard with wood trellis and bubbling fountains sets the tone at the entrance to the reception space which overlooks a comfortable living room for waiting which looks out over another landscaped courtyard. Resort-like and warm, the coastal- inspired palette of soft cream colors, wood and, luminous sand-colored limestone, well-placed courtyards, and pleasing views to the outdoors complete the vision. The connection to nature offers patients, loved ones, and staff healing moments of respite and reflection.