Cavendish Clinic

Manukau

Right from the start of the project, MMiD wanted to create a contemporary space that was the opposite of the usual reality.

When one thinks of medical facilities, the mental image that springs to mind is one often of cold, cramped spaces, unattractive green paint, aged linoleum, uncomfortable chairs and a distinct sense of unease.

Right from the start of the project, MMiD wanted to create a contemporary space that was the opposite of the usual reality. It needed to feel open, welcoming, comfortable and sophisticated, a place that would not only appeal to the multi-cultural clientele, but also shine above all other surrounding medical facilities in the Auckland area.

The original 1751 square metres of retail space encompassing eight units in two buildings on Cavendish Drive was sold to a consortium of medical professionals who wanted to create a specialist medical centre that included MRI, CT scanning, ultrasound, X-ray and Orthopedic consultation. Three units were combined with adjoining ramps to connect the various specialists together forming one supercentre that works seamlessly.

Establishing a good flow that wasn’t repetitious was key to ensuring that the spaces never felt clinical. Although each reception area, sub wait and consulting room is unique from the other, the centre is tied together through consistent materials such as wooden screens, custom designed furniture and cabinetry, light fittings, and floor and wall treatments with differing pops of colours and textures. Abstract artwork and photography of birds and parrots injects colour sitting adjacent to tropical palm and basket weave wallpapers making the rooms feel alive. The different floor coverings were custom designed and coloured by MMiD and to provide a point of difference, a broadloom carpet was installed instead of carpet tiles, adding life to what could have been a typically generic fit out.

Traditionally a sterile and daunting environment, the MRI was a space they wanted to ensure patients felt relaxed and at ease. A ceiling mounted light box now takes the patient on a journey to the ‘Pacific’. An interpretation of a contemporary pacific design is found around the walls in soft shades of green ensuring a feeling of calmness is kept within the space. The CT scanning, X-ray and treatment rooms feature rich tropical murals that provide a point of interest for the sometimes-overwhelmed patients. These bold designs and patterns are backdropped with Resene Half Cararra and Resene Quarter Thorndon Cream, warm neutrals chosen to enhance but not overpower the feature graphics.

No stone has been left unturned; bathrooms and staff only areas are featured with lively colours and patterns providing staff with an escape from the frontline. In order to continue a connection between the interior and exterior of the building, there is a direct and obvious link between the hues of colour in the carpet, signage and path-finding throughout.

Architectural specifier: Gulf Architects; Tash McIntosh Moorman, MMiD (McIntosh Moorman Interior Design)
Building contractor: DTR Solutions
Client: Auckland Ortho; SRGMRI
Photographer: Sam Hartnett
Project: Resene Total Colour Awards 2015