Award-winning design trends

June 1, 2006

Here's a look at the features the judges applauded at this year's Veterinary Economics Hospital Design Competition-and a look at what they'd do differently.

A great facility improves the medical care your team provides, raises the level of customer service, and offers team members a more comfortable working environment—which boosts job satisfaction and lowers turnover. And the trends judges saw in the 2006 entries to the Veterinary Economics Hospital Design Competition reflect significant changes in the veterinary profession, including higher standards of care, more advanced technology and diagnostic equipment, increased competition, and renewed focus on employee satisfaction.

These hospitals, with their dedication to innovation, represent the best of veterinary facility design. Of course, not every feature will work for your hospital, but think about how you might apply these concepts to your own building or remodeling project.

Avoid these turnoffs

Photo attributions

Superior Animal Hospital and Boarding Suites: John Carlson, Carlson Media Inc.

Emergency Animal Clinic of Collin County: Ralph A. Thibodeau, Ralph A. Thibodeau, AIA architects

West Suburban Veterinary Associates: Aimee Lesatz, Plaidfish Communications

Grady Veterinary Hospital: J. Miles Wolf, Wolf Photography

Harden Ranch Veterinary Hospital: Tom O'Neil, TGO Photography

Yorba Regional Animal Hospital: Larry Falke, Larry A. Falke Photography

Animal Emergency & Critical Care of Lynchburg Inc.: Jack Henley, Jack Henley Portrait