Studio Twenty Seven Architecture transformed a former liquor store in southeast into a dental clinic offering nonprofit services to the local Marshall Heights community. Along with KIPPDC Benning Road School, the new Kids Smiles clinic bookends the 4000 block of Benning Road SE and anchors an entire block of urban redevelopment.

Using a design palette borne of utility, the Studio created a warm, inviting space for patient visits and education. Studio Twenty Seven Architecture draped the brick, nondescript, existing building with a folding perforated aluminum screen. The screen takes the place of the typical pull down security grills found in the neighborhood and creates a distinctive sun-screening and facade element for the clinic. Deeply punched openings in the side walls and roof allow light to penetrate deep in to the core of the twenty-one by fifty-six foot deep space. Colors on the walls of the punched openings imbue the light with bright tones that match the interior finishes.

View Detailed Plans (PDF)
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