Canadian studio Atelier Échelle has transformed an dental clinic in Montreal, crafting a space that exudes a “warm and inviting residential atmosphere.” The design cleverly integrates medical equipment with light wood features, creating a harmonious blend of functionality and comfort.
Clinique Monkland is situated on the parlour level of a century-old building in the Notre-Dame-de-Grâce neighborhood. The 90-square-metre area has been reimagined by the local firm Atelier Échelle, aiming to shift the perception of orthodontic clinics from sterile to homely.
The studio describes its vision as one that “reimagines the typical orthodontic clinic experience as a warm and inviting domestic environment.” This approach is evident in the reception area, where a compact walnut desk with a ridged front and rounded corners stands proudly in front of a white-painted brick fireplace.
Surrounding the fireplace, custom millwork covers the full wall, providing ample storage and display space for styling books and artwork. On either side of the room, green velvet benches invite waiting patients to sit comfortably—one bench is straight, while the other angles gracefully to fit within a large bay window.
“The reception was conceived as a living room by preserving an existing brick fireplace and adding long, custom velvet benches along the side walls,” Atelier Échelle explains. This thoughtful design choice enhances the welcoming atmosphere of the clinic.
Fluted glass panels offer privacy for the adjacent consultation room, which is accessed through a doorway that connects to the rest of the space. “A corridor echoes the original layout of the building, distributing the technical apparatus on one side and consultation rooms on the other,” the studio elaborates.
Inside the consultation rooms, the ambiance is further warmed by white oak flooring and trim, complemented by a coffered ceiling that discreetly conceals electromechanical and dental equipment above. “This bespoke design also offers something for the reclined patients to observe as they receive dental care,” Atelier Échelle notes.
The cabinets are painted a soft mint green, while the patient chairs are upholstered in rich brown leather, contributing to the contemporary feel that permeates the entire clinic. This innovative design not only enhances the aesthetic but also elevates the overall patient experience. The subtle elegance of the space harmonizes historical elements with warm wooden hues and homely accents, elevating the experience of visiting the orthodontic clinic through carefully considered design features, Atelier Échelle remarked.