DentZist
[DentZist is a Combination of Dentist and a Word in Persian “Zistan” with the meaning of Living]
The building positioned next to the Zargandeh River and the water-filled aqueducts that have existed in the past years have caused the formation of old Sycamore trees in this area. Since the organic texture of this area is still preserved, this building has a good view of these valuable trees thus increasing the existential value of this building.
The most valuable existing elements were the tall windows, the unit's placement at the intersection of an alley and a main street, and the views of the ancient Sycamore trees in the surroundings. Therefore, maximizing the views and bringing these visual elements into the interior to enhance the quality of the internal space was a priority for this project.
The main challenge of the existing condition was the restricted area and the multitude of necessary uses demanded by the clients of the project. Based on this challenge, a key question arose: How can we create a space that, given the limited area, addresses all the needs of the young dentist couple who spend[Living] a substantial part of their day there while also providing a lively and dynamic environment for their visitors? Additionally, it needed to accommodate various spatial domains, including private, semi-private, and public zones, within a dynamic context and utilize all the existing unit's capacities to maximize the efficiency of the space.
Using the orange color as a familiar sign in all areas where visitors are present creates continuity and integrates this energy throughout these spaces. This color manifests itself in various elements sometimes in signage and markers, and at other times in the furniture and accessories present in the atmosphere.
The separation of spaces has brought two significant advantages. Firstly, the waiting area is completely separated from the treatment space, allowing visitors to experience[Living] a more tranquil atmosphere. Secondly, this separation can enhance the quality of treatment by isolating it from a functional and hygienic perspective. Considering the energy shortages in Tehran, especially during the hot seasons when power outages are common, there is a need for optimal efficiency in the treatment space. This situation can lead to secondary issues for patients during treatment due to the connection of essential dental equipment (such as suction devices, compressors, and dental units) to the power supply. Therefore, an Uninterruptible power supply (UPS) has been installed in this unit. Additionally, to reduce costs, the existing ventilation and plumbing systems were utilized with some minor modifications.
Upon entering the corridor, which serves as the connector between the public areas and specialized treatment spaces, various changes become apparent to the viewer. The transition in the color spectrum of the lighting and the use of epoxy flooring as an antibacterial material are distinctive elements. The connection of the black cornices in the waiting area to the frame of the corridor entrance creates a path for the visitors. As this extension leads to the treatment rooms, which are separated by glass doors, it provides greater transparency and clarity for the audience. In this case, the glass surfaces invite the visitors towards them. Conversely, the white frames and solid doors in the corridor gently prompt the audience, without explicit signs, to approach the specialized areas reserved for the healthcare staff with more caution.
In the treatment area, the effort has been to simplify the space and avoid unnecessary details to provide visual tranquility for the patient. The use of an adjustable ceiling-mounted television, tailored to the patient's sleeping position and orientation, is another feature included in this space. The choice of sheer curtains not only controls sunlight but also reflects the valuable image of the Sycamore trees to the audience.
The use of modular boxes in all sections of the clinic, while moving and changing volumes has created spatial diversity, and has brought significant economic savings to the employer. In addition, its parts are dismantable and can be used in a different arrangement in the future.
