FOCUS ON LOW VISION
STORE DéCOR
The Elements of Style
by Erinn Morgan

A rounded reception desk and inviting product displays help create a space that is both comfortable and efficient

The Atlanta-based Eye Elements was just a glint in the eyes of husband-and-wife optometrist team Teri and Michael Hung until Teri found the right space.  

"I was working at an ophthalmology clinic, but I wanted to do more primary care optometry," she says. "With private optometry, you're able to build long-term relationships in a more personal, relaxed atmosphere."

The right space was in a small "destination shopping" center close to home. "That way I can service the community I live in," she says.

The center is located in an upsc-ale part of Atlanta and features good retail neighbors. "We are literally right next door to a Starbucks, which many people use as a meeting place, for interviews and for catching up with clients," Teri Hung says. 

The Hungs wanted a design for their new 1,300-square-foot space that would reflect the appealing nature of the neighborhood.

"We wanted it to feel spacious for the best work efficiency and so customers feel comfortable to roam around and not be cramped," she says.

Since the space was also to include two exam rooms, a pre-testing area, a contact lens area, one bathroom, and an office/lab area, this was no small task.

PROFESSIONAL HELP

Knowing she wanted a warm and inviting, high-end look designed while she and her husband maintained their full-time jobs, Hung decided to hire a design firm. "I found the space, then spent two to three weeks calling six or seven design centers," she says. "I wanted to make sure we could work together."

The pair selected Seattle-based Ennco Display Systems, Inc., and plans and blueprints were developed over the course of a month.

More time was also taken up by researching contractors and construction companies. "We interviewed eight companies and found one that fit within our budget and was professional and experienced," she says.

For the next six months the Hungs worked hand-in-hand with Ennco designer Jennifer Liu on everything from lighting and cabinetry to tiles and colors.

DREAM DISPENSARY

Efficient traffic flow is key

The Hungs' attention to detail paid off. The dispensary, which is linked to the waiting area for openness, has a modern, airy feel with light colors and a careful balance of incandescent, fluorescent, and halogen lighting. Other
features include:

■Reception desk. Rounded with a wavy overhang for a futuristic look, the desk has a custom inlay pattern that is both upbeat and abstract.

■Traffic patterns. Carefully calculated to give opticians an efficient work environment and give patients a welcoming space, the area is inviting.

■Product. The dispensary, which takes up about half of the available space, showcases 500 frames.

FINAL RESULTS

While the construction plus design costs tipped upwards of $110,000 (including carpet, labor, and materials), Teri Hung says it was worth every penny. "I could have done it cheaper, just putting up shelves and glass on top," she says. "But this way, it looks nice and makes people feel good."

Plus, she says, their average ticket sale is double the national average of about $260, including lenses.

The dispensary is already getting people wandering over from Starbucks—and current patients love the new design too. "I had a patient in today who said it's the best-looking office she has ever seen," she says. "Which means a lot to me after all the hard work. It's nice to have the appreciation."