PRACTICE DESIGN & SETUP
5. OFFICE DESIGN AND FLOOR PLAN
Design like you mean it: Plan a space that scales with you
One of the first steps in expanding or launching a new practice is determining how much space you need. This depends on current patient flow and anticipated growth. A general guideline is to allow about 400 square feet per dental chair, though this varies by specialty and layout. Be mindful of structural features, such as columns or wall jogs, that can affect usable space.
Beyond square footage, it’s about using every inch efficiently. A well-planned layout protects profits and enhances the experience for patients and your team. Partner with a contractor experienced in dental builds, a design team like Henry Schein’s Integrated Design Studio (IDS), and your Henry Schein equipment specialist to bring your vision to life.
These professionals understand the unique demands of dental practices — from electrical and HVAC to soundproofing — and will help create a space that flows seamlessly from reception to treatment.
“Instead of viewing your space as just a checklist of items, think carefully about how you’ll actually use each area — and how that ties into the overall flow and function of your practice,” says Jennifer Rhode, senior manager of IDS.
Your architect, designer, and equipment specialist can organize the space into three zones: public/patient areas, treatment rooms, and private/staff areas. This approach helps estimate construction costs and ensures your floor plan supports your clinical goals.
A key design feature to prioritize is the central sterilization center. Many practices struggle with instrument turnaround, leading to unnecessary inventory. Centralizing sterilization increases efficiency and supports faster room turnover. Ideally, the sterilization center should be within 30 feet of all treatment rooms and designed for a linear dirty-to-clean flow.
Creating an experience through design
Your office design is a core part of your brand — from the parking lot to the operatory. It’s not just about visuals; sound, smell, lighting, and layout all impact how patients feel.
“Choose a design team that gets your vision and can manage everything from surfaces to finishes,” says Rhode.
Your space should:
- Support team efficiency
- Put patients at ease
- Align with clinical flow
- Allow for future growth
- Be clean, modern, and low-maintenance
Design for both what patients see and sense. Use lighting and layout to showcase tech like same-day crowns, while keeping treatment delivery out of direct view to reduce anxiety.
Accessibility matters. Universal design welcomes all ages and abilities — and signals thoughtful care.
Today’s trend: spa-inspired spaces with private suites, soft seating, and sensory touches like music or lighting zones. Neutrals with bold accents offer calm and professionalism. Your team can help you choose materials that are both stylish and durable.
Smart design does more than look good — it earns trust and drives patient satisfaction.
GETTING STARTED:
- Involve your Henry Schein equipment specialist early to plan for digital dentistry and scalable technology
- After your contractor outlines the space, physically mark where equipment will go
- Have your equipment specialist visit the site at key milestones to ensure plumbing, air, electrical, and vacuum are installed correctly
- Collaborate on fine details — outlet placement, reinforcements, trim spacing — with your design and equipment team. Your equipment partner and designer (space planner) will work together on fine details, such as trim measurements, number and location of outlets, etc.