A Commercial Space With Heart, Soul, and Spurs
A Before & After of an Equine Sports Medicine Practice in Texas - completed two years ago, this projects remains one of my favorite commercial design projects to date.
When I was asked to redesign the reception area and intern living quarters for an Equine Sports Medicine practice in Texas, the goal was not simply to make the spaces look better. It was to create an environment that reflected the professionalism of the practice while remaining warm, welcoming, and authentic to its surroundings. This project became a complete transformation - from furniture and styling to custom furnishings and branding.
The Reception Area
The original reception space lacked cohesion and a clear identity. While functional, it felt dated and visually busy, with mismatched furnishings and little connection to the quality of care the practice provided. My objective was to create a warm, refined environment inspired by Texas ranch life while maintaining a timeless aesthetic.
This wasn't an ordinary veterinary office. The practice is recognized for its exceptional equine care, with a state-of-the-art barn and surgical facility that serves horses from across the region. Every aspect of the property reflected a commitment to excellence, and the reception area and living quarters needed to carry that same standard.
Design Goals
• Create a calm and welcoming first impression.
• Celebrate the equestrian heritage without feeling themed.
• Select durable, commercial-friendly materials.
• Improve flow, functionality, and visual balance.
• Strengthen the practice's brand identity.
The Design Process
Every project begins with understanding how a space functions before selecting a single piece of furniture. For this project I developed the overall design concept, sourced furnishings and accessories, commissioned a custom leather sofa and throw pillows, coordinated manufacturing and shipping to Texas, created the styling plan, and completed the final installation so every detail reflected the vision for the practice.
A Custom Piece
The reception area needed a sofa substantial enough for the scale of the room while remaining comfortable for clients. Rather than purchasing an off-the-shelf piece, I designed a custom leather sofa that was manufactured specifically for the project and shipped to Texas. It became the foundation for the entire design palette.
Sources & Design Details
• Custom leather sofa and throw pillows
• Custom metal wall logo
• Curated collection of equestrian and Texas books
• Leather and linen accent pillows
The Barn Apartment
In addition to the reception area, I redesigned the intern apartment within the barn. The goal was to create a comfortable, welcoming retreat after long days caring for horses. Even smaller spaces, including the area beneath the staircase, were thoughtfully planned to maximize function while maintaining the same warm, relaxed aesthetic found throughout the property.
A Great Client
This project was also a reminder of what can happen when a client trusts the design process. From the custom furnishings to the smallest styling details, I was given the creative freedom to design spaces that felt authentic to the practice while elevating the everyday experience for both clients and staff.
The Heart Of The Project
Good design isn't simply about creating beautiful rooms. It's about creating spaces with heart - places that reflect the people who use them, tell an honest story, and continue to feel welcoming years after the project is complete.
This Texas Equine Sports Medicine practice remains one of my favorite projects because it reminds me that the most meaningful interiors aren't defined by trends. They're defined by authenticity, craftsmanship, and the people they were created for.
Looking back, I realize this project wasn't really about designing an office. It was about creating a place that reflected the people inside it - honest, hardworking, welcoming, and deeply connected to the land and the animals they care for every day.
For interior design services or inquiries regarding custom furnishings, please contact bonjourmaisond@gmail.com.
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