Furnishing practice and clinic: reception, waiting area, hygiene

A private practice is judged by the same standards as a hotel: the patient decides within the first few seconds what category they have arrived in. The difference lies in hygiene, which restricts the choice of materials much more than in any other property.

The Reception Creates the Impression

The counter, back wall, and waiting area are all within the same field of view. A calm back wall with indirect lighting, a console table or sideboard for documents, and a few large wall art pieces instead of many small frames are the most reliable options. What quickly destroys the impression are visible stacks of files and cables, which is why storage space should be planned into the counter design.

Waiting Area: Distance is Equipment

Patients dislike sitting close to each other. Individual armchairs with armrests appear significantly more upscale and comfortable than a continuous row of benches, because each seat has its own boundary. Where space is limited, benches with clearly separated seating positions are a compromise. Practically proven: seat height should be slightly higher than in a living area, as elderly patients otherwise find it difficult to stand up, and armrests that extend to the front and provide support when standing up.

Upholstery Must Withstand Disinfectants

This is where most incorrect purchases happen. Surface disinfectants attack open textiles and untreated leather. Suitable options include pigmented leather with a closed finish, see Leather, as well as artificial leather and specifically disinfectant-resistant fabrics. Aniline leather, velvet, and bouclé are unsuitable. Equally important are furniture on legs, allowing for cleaning underneath, instead of closed plinths.

Light That Doesn't Blind Anyone

In the waiting area, people sit and look upwards or straight ahead. Direct overhead lighting in the line of sight is uncomfortable, especially for patients who are lying down or leaning back. Indirect lighting components, wall lights with closed shades, and a warm, consistent light color throughout the premises are preferable. In treatment rooms, the opposite applies; here, task lighting is crucial, and both circuits should be separately switchable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which upholstery can withstand surface disinfectants?

Pigmented leather with a closed finish, artificial leather, and specifically disinfectant-resistant fabrics. Aniline leather, velvet, and bouclé are unsuitable.

Individual armchairs or a row of benches in the waiting area?

Individual armchairs with armrests appear more upscale and comfortable because each seat has its own boundary. Benches only with clearly separated seating positions.

What should one consider regarding seat height in a practice?

Slightly higher than in a living area and with armrests that extend to the front. Elderly patients otherwise find it difficult to stand up from a seated position.

Consultation by an Authorized Dealer

Casa Luxury is the interior world of an established, authorized Eichholtz specialist dealer. We are listed in the brand's official dealer directory and support object projects from selection to delivery, both online and in our showroom in Essen. For project inquiries, please write to info@casa-luxury.de.