For many patients, a trip to the dentist brings anxiety. Some postpone appointments or avoid booking altogether. But the dental practice that Cologne-based design firm pd raumplan created for their client could transform that experience entirely. Here, patients—both children and adults—encounter a space anchored in an extraordinary theme: outer space. This inspired concept does far more than distract from dental apprehension; it embodies the cutting-edge technical sophistication of the treatments offered. The designers have seamlessly merged the futuristic architecture of the "RKM Tower 740" (by architect J. Mayer H.) with the practice's vision. Educational content on space brings this concept to life for young patients through interactive Tonieboxes—allowing for additional thematic storytelling throughout the space.

From the moment patients enter the waiting area—whether children or adults—they're immersed in slow-motion imagery from the cosmos, creating a calming prelude to treatment. Light becomes a design language here. Over 50 pulsating LED strips by Prolicht animate the entrance to the adult practice, producing an effect that feels almost otherworldly. Achieving this sophisticated lighting installation required close collaboration between the interior designers, lighting specialist, and carpenter through multiple design iterations. Despite their restrained material palette—glass, drywall, and cement-finish flooring—the spaces feel remarkably dynamic. As pd raumplan founder and interior designer Hubert Günther notes: "We deliberately chose a limited material vocabulary of glass and plasterboard with a cement-look floor. This focused colour strategy enhances the organically flowing floor plan."

Creating this space—impressive enough to win over even dental-phobic patients—demanded inventive planning. Within 580 m² and a corridor spanning over 50 metres, the designers crafted an engaging layout accommodating two distinct practice zones for children and adults, each with separate entrances, reception, and waiting areas, yet unified as a cohesive whole. This achievement was validated by the 2022 ZWP Design Award for "Germany's Most Beautiful Dental Practice"—a distinction the award has granted for over 20 years.

www.pd-raumplan.de

Photography Credits:

Ralf Baumgarten
www.ralfbaumgarten.de

(Published in CUBE Düsseldorf, Issue 04|22)