Change your reception area with the flip of a switch
If your reception area seems dull, new light fixtures can provide a low-cost solution. Although most veterinary hospital waiting areas have plenty of light, the quality is often poor.
By Douglas R. Hurlbert, AIA
If your reception area seems dull, new light fixtures can provide a low-cost solution. Although most veterinary hospital waiting areas have plenty of light, the quality is often poor.
Many older clinics use 2-by-4 lay-in or surface-mounted wraparound fluorescent fixtures. Consider replacing these lights with new fluorescent fixtures that feature one-inch egg-crate louvers to direct light downward and eliminate glare. Replacement lay-in units cost $65 to $70 each, while surface-mounted fixtures average $70 to $75 each.
To reduce glare even more, install parabolic louver fixtures equipped with three-lamp T-8 technology. They feature an electronic ballast for quieter and cooler operation and three energy-efficient tubes that produce more light than four standard fluorescent tubes. These lay-in units cost $100 each. Replacement lights are available at most light-fixture supply houses.
Also install recessed can lights to highlight signs, artwork, or retail displays. These $25 units can make big impressions on clients.
Douglas R. Hurlbert, AIA, is an architect in Inman, S.C., who specializes in veterinary clinic design. You can reach him at unitas @sprintmail.com.
April 2001 Veterinary Economics
