Designing a headquarters for a rapidly growing network of clinics presented an opportunity for a 54 year-old podiatry practice to highlight a successful and influential brand while providing patients and staff with a light-filled, contemporary space.

A new, more spacious headquarters location provided the opportunity for the Weil Foot and Ankle institute to introduce their innovative brand. “We wanted to create a new, modern space that offers both patient comfort and employee satisfaction,” says Dr. Wendy Benton-Weil, Coordinator of Special Projects at Weil Foot and Ankle Institute.

Weil Foot & Ankle Institute turned to JDJ Architects, Chicago to design the light, airy 23,000 square foot space, teaming up with Manish Shah, director of architecture and Ashley Chavez, interior designer.

Large windows and beautiful views provided the “wow” factor for the main clinic space on the first floor, and creative design enabled views from all common areas, with privacy where required.

A color palette of serene whites and grays was chosen, punctuated with touches of copper and bronze to add richness. “It’s a Center for Excellence, and we wanted a state of the art facility,” says Dr. Benton-Weil. The reception area features comfortable seating throughout, a coffee bar and an adjoining retail shop, where patients can browse through a selection of shoes, oils, lotions, braces, nail polishes, medications, socks and more. “It’s a comfort issue,” says Dr. Benton-Weil. “Our reception area has a calming effect, and our patients love it.”

JDJ Architects selected finishes for healing aesthetics and durability. “We wanted to create an ambience that has a positive effect upon the well-being of those who use the space, from patient to clinical staff,” says Shah, who heads up JDJ Architects’ health care practice. He noted that design for healthcare today is heavily influenced by the hospitality industry, with sophisticated furnishings, relaxing seating areas encouraging quiet conversation and amenities such as coffee bars, TVs, wireless access and more.

“JDJ Architects is seeing an increased demand for medical and healthcare offices that offer a “consumer-friendly” experience as well an enjoyable workspace for healthcare professionals and administrative staff,” said Shah. “We’re designing facilities that anticipate the future of healthcare, with careful consideration to workflows, patient and staff safety, privacy and technological advances.”

Other touches include contemporary pendant lights and slatted wood supports framing the reception desk, which is also accented subtly with lights. A graceful curve divides the wood entryway floor from the carpeted reception area. Dr. Benton-Weil brought in a muralist to showcase the Institute’s values with a painting accompanied by text in bronze.

The main floor also includes a physical therapy space, an MRI area and 13 treatment rooms, which are sleek and uncluttered, warmed by wood doors and bronze veining on the floors.

The fourth floor of the building houses the Weil Foot and Ankle Institute headquarters and administration space, accommodating about 75 employees working in administration, support, IT, call center and billing roles. The traditional gray and burgundy tones from the logo accent the walls and floors. Floor to ceiling windows bring plenty of light to the central open space. “The open space promotes more interaction and more effective communication,” says Dr. Benton-Weil.