Veterinary Hospital Design Trends –
The Freshest Ideas from Around the World

Therian is committed to offering our clients the very best quality products and technology in terms of the design and fit-out of veterinary hospitals, clinics & kennels. As part of this we ensure our team is up-to-date with the latest trends in vet clinic design from around the world and how these can potentially work for our clients.

Bryan King, Therian’s Lead Architect shares the latest leading trends over the last 12 months in the veterinary industry in terms of architectural design. His discussion was based on his own experience in the industry as well as the annual Hospital Design Awards, a competition run by U.S. publication DVM 360, which focuses exclusively on veterinary hospital design.

Announced in mid-2023, these award winners offered great examples of both practical and aspirational new concepts and emerging trends in vet clinic design and fit-out. These include everything from maximizing natural lighting to effective noise and odour mitigation, outdoor exam spaces, and separation of canine and feline entrances. What’s clear is that the concepts underpinning contemporary vet hospital design have transformed over the last decade or two and continue to evolve.

Some veterinary clinics have embraced the interesting idea of open treatment areas that are visible from the client reception/waiting room area. This is achievable with clever architectural layouts and glass walls or partitions. Applied well, it helps to demystify veterinary medicine and some (where appropriate) of what occurs behind the scenes. It is also a nod to transparency in care and allowing pet parents to see for themselves that their animal is being demonstrably well looked after behind the scenes. While this approach would not necessarily work for all clinics or areas within a veterinary hospital, it’s definitely an intriguing approach that could be incorporated in part.

The era of “hospital green” or “clinical white” exclusively used in human and veterinary facilities is over. Modern vet practices are becoming ever more aesthetically appealing with the dynamic use of colour and texture to appeal to clients and speak to their brand.

This is easily achievable through paint colour choice. Paint, unlike fixtures, is easy to update or change. As an authority on colour, Pantone’s “Colour of the Year” (FYI in 2024 this is “Peach Fuzz”) is reflective of the latest trending colours. It is best to develop a preferred palette of three or four complementary colours as well as a background neutral. Many paint companies also have online resources for colour trends and for creating palettes of complimentary colours. (Alternatively, look to your bespoke branding and logo and use these colours.)

Current trends favour a calming “spa” style aesthetic extending seamlessly from the reception area throughout the facility into the medical areas, but options are diverse. Think polished concrete or timber-look flooring, muted colours, and material transitions with timber trims separating the lower-wall protection from the upper walls. Inclusions like built-in retail wall shelving help hold the space together. Materials chosen must be easy to clean and sterilize where required.

Designing a vet clinic that not only supports the needs of staff and animal patients but is also responsive to the needs of human clients is important. This means consideration of who the clients are and what will best achieve their comfort and confidence in the practice. This includes comfortable seating, accessibility, safety, and a welcoming environment.

Decorative aspects of vet clinic design bring the entire space together. Trending artwork inspiration includes large-format animal photographs or prints incorporating colours that complement your interiors, or abstract artworks to individualise the space and give it a unique sense of character. Another current trend is the use of greenery – think green walls, some plants (but not in a location where an enthusiastic dog may decide to mark their territory!), or out-of-the-way hanging pots.

Decorative lighting features are very popular and can create a streamlined feel by adopting a lighting style that complements your overall clinic aesthetic. From sleek and modern to classic to industrial – work with the right designer to ensure it all works together.

Moreover, we encourage exploiting natural light as much as possible with windows (transparent or translucent, depending on the outlook and privacy needs) and skylights. Natural sunlight is better than artificial (especially fluorescent) for humans and animals in terms of mood, well-being, and recovery. It is also a more sustainable option for both the planet and your clinic’s energy bills.

Mitigation of fear during vet visits, hospital stays, and in-vet boarding should be top of mind for vets, and this is of particular importance for cats. Ideas include creating separate spaces for dog and cat clients (e.g., waiting areas), cat-friendly examination tables with removable scratchy fabric surfaces, consult room cat towers, and use of Fear-Free Enclosures.

More vet practices in Australia and abroad are incorporating pharmacy control cabinets for security and safety, and advanced imaging technologies to better suit the unique needs of smaller animal patients.

With more than twenty years of industry experience with clients including vets, the RSPCA, boarding kennels, and others, we offer a holistic service focused on selling complete customised solutions and provide a wide range of solutions from world leading veterinary brands. We are very proud of the reputation we have built for providing the very best quality veterinary equipment available worldwide and playing an important role in helping ensure better animal health, well-being, and outcomes.

Contact us today for more information on everything from vet clinic design to veterinary technology, veterinary hospital equipment, and more, or for a fast 48-hour quote turnaround.

You can view Bryan King, Lead Architect full presentation here.