Nest: A Dental Clinic Redefining Space and Tranquility

Pao-Chieh Chou's Award-Winning Design Brings Nature Indoors

Located in a unique corner building, Nest takes full advantage of its location by incorporating large floor-to-ceiling windows at the entrance and repositioning the staircase to maximize the 270-degree lighting advantage. The clinic's design, inspired by the image of a nest, is a harmonious blend of the building's round and elegant look, the functionality of the nearby shopping area, and the foot traffic.

Nest's unique properties lie in its three-dimensional curves and unadorned atmosphere. The designer used CNC punching, arranging, and assembling techniques to create each curve, forming a distinctive visual experience. The interior, dominated by a light beige, uses mineral paint with delicate textures to create organic curves on each wall. The handmade texture of the paint, similar to human skin, gives the space a tranquil atmosphere.

The design realization technology used in Nest is a mix of solid wood, pebble dashing, rattan, glass, mineral paint, woodwork, dried flowers, and light cement. The color scheme, based on the concept of 'natural' and 'pure', uses light cement to create seamless flooring with a light beige mineral coating for the ceiling, floor, and walls. The designer then used natural elements such as solid wood, stone, and rattan to embellish the vibrancy, making the overall visual harmony and beauty.

The clinic, a two-story store in a new building, has a total area of 280.9 square meters, with a reception desk area, a waiting area, a basic treatment clinic, and an advanced treatment clinic on the second floor. The designer changed the stairway and interior partitions based on structural safety to maximize light and attract the attention of passersby. The design aims to provide visitors with a cozy atmosphere and a comfortable treatment experience.

The project, completed in February 2023 in Taiwan, faced several challenges. The completion of 280.9 square meters of commercial space in a very short period was very challenging. The designer took three presentation techniques, especially for time and care. The first was jointless flooring. It had to be completed in seven days and 12 steps, and it had to be done at once, otherwise, there would be color differences and cracks. The second is the three-dimensional curves. Different from the standard rectangle or circle, the irregular curves presented an indoor test of the designer's control of 3D concept and experience. Thirdly, the position of the staircase is changed.

In conclusion, Nest is a testament to Pao-Chieh Chou's innovative approach to design, combining functionality and aesthetics to create a tranquil, nature-inspired sanctuary. The design, a winner of the prestigious Silver A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award in 2023, is a testament to innovation, creativity, and a keen understanding of space and light.