Habitat Veterinary Hospital

Habitat Veterinary Hospital is locally owned in Boise, Idaho. The practice owners came to us wanting more than just a new building. The ground-up general practice needed to be a testament to preserving the heart and soul of veterinary medicine while remaining resilient and a steadfast industry leader. They sought a wellness and community-inspired design to reshape the expectations of the typical vet visit. Their unique approach has led the practice design to win dvm360’s 2024 Hospital Design of the Year and IIDA Northern Pacific Chapter’s 2021 People’s Choice Healthcare awards.

From the first steps into the building, numerous large windows work to blur the distinction between indoor and outdoor spaces. The design choices focus on blending natural elements and organically occurring textures with plant walls, featured greenery, stonewalls, and water elements, all working to set the tone for a relaxed, fear-free atmosphere.

Habitat has two large exam rooms with private outside yards and separate entries from the parking lot. When needed, these offer a more comfortable alternative to the standard enclosed exam rooms for extra nervous animals, and dually decrease the spread of infectious diseases by keeping sick pets at a distance from others. On the contrary, the design also features an indoor window-less exam room to accommodate the needs and anxieties of birds coming from their local wildlife center.

The practice’s 5,925 square foot build is fully maximized with multi-use indoor and outdoor spaces. Polished concrete floors and durable, smooth walls and cabinetry surfaces can be found throughout, specifically chosen for easy cleaning. The surgical suite features advanced equipment, including scavenger systems, specialized cabinets, and oxygen delivery systems for optimal conditions of sterile procedures. Dentistry rooms are isolated yet accessible, with shared spaces designed for efficient workflow and infection control. Treatment kennels are strategically placed for observation and convenience, and exam rooms are equipped with sound machines to minimize stress.

Habitat’s leadership strongly advocates for a healthy work-life balance and wants the team to feel free to exercise during the day knowing they can freshen up with onsite showers. Numerous common spaces, like the doctor’s offices, break room, and full kitchen, include ergonomic furnishings and fully support collaboration amongst the team.