DERMATOLOGY & OPHTHALMOLOGY MEDICAL OFFICE

Type: Commercial

Location: Caguas, Puerto Rico

Year: 2023

Status: Built

Design: Armando Rigau, Silvana Herrera

Collaborators: ERC Engineers PR (Contractor); IDS Mobiliario (Furniture)

Description: To accommodate two distinct medical practices, dermatology and ophthalmology, this office design revolves around the formal manipulation of a central volume, which we call the “fulcrum.” This oblique figure not only functions as the reception desk and admin office but also fosters a continuous visual connection between staff and patients that facilitates wayfinding and circulation.

The fulcrum’s distinct shape activates an interactive programmatic sequence within the office and creates a perspectival fragmentation that enhances spatial depth. On a typical visit, patients proceed to the check-in counter and waiting room. An access door, which helps to manage a smooth and controlled flow, leads into a corridor that connects to exam rooms and supporting spaces. Lastly, visitors reach the check-out counter, completing a loop around the fulcrum.

Materiality and colors are deployed strategically to distinguish and harmonize the overall aesthetic and functionality of the medical office. For instance, wood flooring in public areas around the reception reinforces the fulcrum concept, while in contrast, dark textures highlight restricted zones like exam rooms and support spaces. To accentuate the transition between these areas, a luminous line travels along the ceiling perimeter of the corridor. Rooms are color coded to reference each of the medical specialties. Other supplementary elements such as frosted glass doors and clerestory windows enhance natural light penetration, further enriching a sense of spaciousness throughout the office.