Northwell Health
Building functional exam rooms for a trusted healthcare provider.
When Northwell Health decided to redesign their patient exam rooms, they turned to us to take their ideas from concept sketches to finished products. By leveraging our deep discovery process, we helped the New York region's largest healthcare system develop highly detailed exam room millwork that is as functional and cost-effective as it is safe and attractive.
What we did.
01.
Design Development.
With general design goals in hand, we encouraged Northwell to begin the project with an informational review process. Swapping 3D sketches and written questions, we based our ideas for engineering and fabrication on Northwell’s operational goals.
Early priorities were safety, accessibility, durability, and visual aesthetics. We explored each one in turn, touching on details from germ-resistant joinery to mop-resistant toe kicks.
We considered ADA compliance, access to plumbing, theft and security, and latex glove dispensers. We mapped out the storage needs for each drawer and shelf. Because many doctors’ offices are located in older buildings, we developed a mounting system that could be adapted for a wide range of wall types. By the end of our discovery process, we were ready to turn concept sketches into CAD drawings.
02.
Value Engineering
and Prototyping.
To help Northwell make the most out of their budget, we hardwired value engineering into our discovery process. We leveraged our global network of suppliers to find cost effective solutions on key components and presented budget-friendly finish substitutes.
We shared opportunities for price breaks on bulk orders, encouraged our client to consider so-called “lean” approaches to manufacturing and inventory management, and developed efficient installation methods to control on-site costs.
Our value engineering process led to further drawing refinements. Finally, a prototype review at Northwell’s offices gave all stakeholders an opportunity to review the product in real life and to see our installation efficiencies in action.
03.
Fabrication and Installation.
With design development complete, we shifted our focus to fabrication, completing an initial production run for two physicians’ practices in Staten Island, New York. Along with the exam room millwork, we also provided a custom five-station solid-surface reception desk, office cabinetry and counters, laboratory millwork, a nurse’s station, and other medical case-goods.
Ahead of installation, we confirmed site dimensions and street access rules; we coordinated blocking locations with Northwell’s project management team; and we aligned our installation with the GC’s plumbers and electricians. The finished product fit like a latex glove!
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