Mark R. Hafen, AIA

Veterinary architect Mark Hafen previews his upcoming hospital design video primer.

Stop wasting your time fussing over trivial things and start learning how to coexist peacefully with your construction team. Get to the meat of important conversations to keep your project on track.

Hanging with Hafen: It's easy being green?and lean

Hanging with Hafen: Lessons from Dr. Dan

Veterinary architect Mark Hafen, AIA, cites wireless technology as an exciting innovation in design and describes how its implementation is beneficial to the staff and the bottom line.

Open and airy

This photo tour, developed by veterinary architect Mark Hafen, AIA, gives you a glimpse at 11 different exam rooms. Find inspiration in the shape, materials, and functionality of these great examples.

This photo tour, developed by veterinary architect Mark Hafen, AIA, gives you a glimpse at eight different reception desks. Find inspiration in the shape, materials, and functionality of these great examples.

This photo tour gives you a look a eight reception areas and advice from veterinary architect Mark Hafen, AIA, about what key decisions you should make about your own.

Marketing experts say that the most significant factor affecting the perceived value of a product is the place where it is purchased.

Developing a strong overall concept is the most important step in getting a floor plan right.

Today's veterinary market is being pulled by two opposing trends.

From the windows to the walls, smart construction leads to big energy savings.

Soon-to-be-moms, nursing moms, and toddlers are a part of practice now more than ever. And as an ever-increasing number of female veterinarians seek employment, and eventually ownership, women's needs will influence facility design even more.

When people shop for used cars, they kick the tires and check under the hood. When they shop for veterinary services, the evaluation is more subtle. But in both cases, they form lasting opinions based on first impressions. That's why it's critical to minimize noise and odor. Simply put, if your clinic stinks, clients may worry that your medical care stinks, too.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) made discrimination based on physical disability illegal. The law was originally designed to eliminate employment discrimination, but it applies to public access as well. Any new facility, addition, or significant remodel built after Jan. 26, 1992, must conform to the ADA. The act specifies that second-floor offices, apartments, and conference rooms be accessible as well. While the following isn't an exhaustive list of ADA requirements, it does offer common compliance guidelines that can help prevent a lawsuit.