Lowell, MA Maugel Architects hascompleted the dental office suite for Reichheld Ting Orthodontics (RTO) in Lowell, Mass. Located in the recently renovated Market Basket plaza on Wood St., the fit-up included six orthodontist bays, two consult rooms, sterilization, brushing stations, a 3D printing lab, waiting and reception and a staff lounge. This was Maugel’s third project for RTO, having previously designed offices in Acton and Westford.

The project began simultaneously with the state mandated lock downs last spring. The team of Maugel Architects, Pinnacle Construction, Design Day Mechanical and Shepherd Engineering worked diligently through COVID-19 restrictions to deliver the project safely and efficiently. Top priority was given to understanding COVID-19 precautions, researching the cleanability of materials and fixtures, and providing flexible design solutions that could be easily adapted once restrictions were lifted.

To create patient separation, Maugel designed brushed stainless steel frames that held Lumicor panels aligned with the ceiling soffits that can be removed once restrictions ease. Wall-mounted faucets at brushing stations and consult rooms were specified to minimize countertop surface cleaning, and wall tiles were installed at sink areas to withstand extensive cleaning.

The strip mall location presented a unique design challenge. The team worked through various layout options to ensure the long, narrow clinical space with limited natural light felt intimate, but not claustrophobic. While RTO mainly services youth, it was important to the doctors that the space be professional and sophisticated.

The RTO team is known for their Shark Nation mascot and patient reward system, which is advertised via vibrant wall posters throughout the dental suite. Maugel developed a neutral, yet intentional, finish palette to showcase the promotional materials rather than compete with it.

The patient experience was further enhanced through the selection of high end materials and finishes. Solid surface quartz was used to tie together different zones of the suite. The material is visible in the angled reception desk, brushing stations and ortho bays. In the ortho work area, the stone material flows continuously across countertops, up backsplashes and over partitions back to the floor. Not only does this reduce the spaces that dirt can collect, it emphasizes the sleek look desired by the doctors. The stone material was partnered strategically with wood tone laminate cabinetry to maintain the warmth of the space and create a welcoming environment for patients and staff.