Q&A: Practice design on a dime
Sprucing up your practice's exterior is easier and cheaper than you might think.
Your first step: Visit other professional buildings—like doctors' offices and law practices—in your area to gain inspiration, says Veterinary Economics Editorial Advisory Board member Dan Chapel, AIA, owner of Chapel Associates Architects in Little Rock, Ark. There are plenty of things you can do with $500 to impress your clients. Start with the door—scratches from claws and metal leashes can take their toll, but a quick coat of paint can do wonders. If your door is really worn down, consider replacing it with a metal or metal-glass combination door.
Dan Chapel
Clients (and their pets) need a place to wipe their feet, so replace any worn-out, stained doormats. Consider planting flowers or other foliage, but don't overplant—keep your walkways simple, clean, and easy to navigate. Also, some clients visit early in the morning or past sunset, so make sure your outdoor lighting is sufficient. Finally, consider investing in a professional-looking sign that lists the practice's name and phone number.
