Update your tool box

The first time I painted the interior of my bungalow, I got it all wrong. First, I picked bone white—a classy name, but a boring off-white just the same. Second, I used an old, wide, flat paint brush that looked like it'd been stuck in an electric socket.

Then I visited the paint store and met the brush of my dreams. It swept me away—from lupine to positive red to brown bag. Now, I paint like a pro. Whether you're painting a room or building a hospital, the right planning and tools make all the difference. Use these tools to make your building project a success:

• The expertise of veterinary architects. Even if you decide to go with a local architect, a veterinary architect can consult and offer guidance on your project. Because they've worked on lots of facilities, they know the specific issues you'll face, such as noise and humidity control.

• Know-how from colleagues. Visit recently built hospitals to get a first-hand look at building features that you might like to incorporate into your facility. Most important, ask owners about the materials that you want to use. Find out about ease of use, durability, and their overall satisfaction with the product. An upfront time investment here could save you a costly remodel later.

• An inspiration notebook. Include floor plans, pictures of hospital designs you admire, product and equipment information, and anything else you might gather along your research trail.

• The Veterinary Economics Hospital Design Conference, Aug. 23 to 25 in Kansas City, Mo. Here you'll meet veterinary architects, accountants, and manufacturers who will address all aspects of the building process. One-on-one architect consultations are an attendee favorite.

• www.HospitalDesign.net The site offers case studies, photo galleries, and floor plans so you can see how veterinary facilities came to life. Plus, you'll find articles on financing, planning, materials, and more.

• This annual supplement. We packed these pages and the corresponding Web exclusives to the brim with time-tested expert advice and guidance.

Jessica Harper

Through feedback from readers and attendees of the Veterinary Economics Hospital Design Conference, we know that you're likely in one of three places: working toward your dream hospital, building or remodeling, or reaping the rewards. We've tried to present information that will help all of you. Are you primed for an excellent building experience?