Working on commercial projects is always an exciting challenge, and my recent experience with Barbara Solano on the new PD Labs facility was no exception. (Yes, I am a bit late posting this, but here you go!)
Barbara, a meticulous planner and professional organizer, brought me on board to assist in selecting the fixed elements for their newly constructed medical facility and compounding lab.
Navigating the Challenges of Commercial Projects
Unlike residential projects, commercial design often requires a phased approach. I don’t always have the luxury of selecting all fixed elements at once, and in this case, the construction company had pre-existing relationships with vendors. This meant I could only choose from a limited selection—often just three options—presented at each meeting.
Another layer of complexity came from the nature of the business. Since PD Labs is a compounding pharmacy, every surface we selected had to meet strict hygiene and ADA compliance standards. Functionality was just as important as aesthetics, which required extra diligence in material selection.
This was the first image I took when I got involved with the project
Blending Old and New: One of the unique aspects of this project was incorporating cabinetry from their previous location. While the color of the existing cabinets didn’t align with our vision for the new space, Barbara made the strategic decision to repurpose them for storage areas rather than public-facing sections. This not only saved costs but also ensured that the primary spaces reflected the modern, clean, and professional aesthetic we aimed for.
Collaboration and Problem-Solving: Because I wasn’t involved in the initial architectural planning phase, I had to navigate evolving challenges as they arose. Barbara was fantastic to work with—her deep understanding of color and design made for a truly collaborative process. We brainstormed solutions together, ensuring that every decision aligned with both function and aesthetics.
Working Within a Budget: As with many projects, budget constraints meant we had to make strategic compromises. While we couldn’t always get our first-choice materials, we prioritized wisely and ultimately created a space that is both visually appealing and highly functional.
A Shoutout to PD Labs PD Labs specializes in compounding customized medications, offering pharmaceutical solutions tailored to individual needs. They focus on innovative approaches to wellness, including bioidentical hormone therapy, mitochondrial health, and neurodegenerative conditions. Their commitment to quality healthcare makes them a leader in the field, and it was an honor to contribute to their new space.
I was able to snap a few photos during the ribbon-cutting event, although it was quite the challenge to avoid having people in the photos without their consent. If you are in the area, why not go and have a look or contact the facility if you are in need of a Functional Medicine approach!
PD LABS – COMPOUNDING PHARMACY
