Community-Inspired Healing Spaces: Innovative Healthcare Design in Fernandina Beach
Community-Inspired Healing Spaces: Innovative Healthcare Design in Fernandina Beach
Commercial Interior Design Fernandina Beach, FL

Community-Inspired Healing Spaces: Innovative Healthcare Design in Fernandina Beach

Design Challenge

In the vibrant community of Fernandina Beach, Florida, Studio M Interior Design faced an exciting opportunity: creating a new healthcare facility for Beaches Dermatology that would not only meet functional medical requirements but also embrace the unique character of the local community. Marsha Faulkner was tasked with designing a space that would feel both professional and welcoming, with the practice’s philosophy of reflecting the flavor of each neighborhood they serve.

Our mission: Design a healthcare facility that balances clinical functionality with the warm, coastal aesthetic of Fernandina Beach, creating a space that puts patients at ease while maintaining the highest standards of medical practice.

Our Solution

Embracing our role as healthcare interior designers, we:

  1. Collaborated closely with architect Mike Koppenhafer of FK Architecture & Interior Design to ensure a seamless integration of architectural elements and interior design.
  2. Created an airy, open reception area with high ceilings, exposed beams, and abundant natural light, establishing a welcoming first impression that defies traditional clinical environments.
  3. Incorporated a neutral color palette of whites, creams, and light woods, complemented by natural textures that reflect the coastal character of Fernandina Beach.
  4. Selected sophisticated mesh pendant lighting fixtures that add visual interest while maintaining a clean, modern aesthetic.
  5. Designed custom reception and check-in areas using natural wood and subtle textures, creating a professional yet approachable focal point for the space.
  6. Integrated comfortable seating arrangements throughout the waiting areas, with carefully selected furniture that balances style with durability and ease of maintenance.
  7. Curated local artwork that celebrates the natural beauty and community spirit of Fernandina Beach, adding color and character to the space.
  8. Created functional yet inviting treatment and examination rooms, ensuring medical efficiency while maintaining the warm, calming aesthetic established in the public areas.
  9. Incorporated thoughtful details like herringbone wood-look flooring, driftwood-inspired accent pieces, and natural stone elements that reference the coastal environment.
The Result

Our design approach transformed this new construction project into a healthcare facility that truly embodies the spirit of Fernandina Beach while meeting all medical requirements. The innovative design resulted in a space that:

  • Welcomes patients with a bright, open environment that immediately puts them at ease, reducing the anxiety often associated with medical visits.
  • Showcases the perfect balance of professional healthcare design and coastal charm, creating a unique identity for this Beaches Dermatology location.
  • Features thoughtfully designed workspaces that enhance staff efficiency and satisfaction.
  • Incorporates natural elements and textures that reflect the coastal character of Fernandina Beach.
  • Demonstrates how healthcare facilities can be both clinically functional and aesthetically pleasing.
  • Creates a foundation for the practice’s community-centered approach to dermatological care.

This project stands as a testament to Studio M’s expertise in healthcare interior design, highlighting our ability to create spaces that honor local communities while providing all the functionality required in a modern medical facility. The success of this project has led to an exciting new collaboration with Beaches Dermatology for updates to their Ponte Vedra offices, continuing our partnership in creating community-inspired healthcare spaces.