"Cool design" wasn't the primary goal for Dr. Nancy Binford's renovation of her practice, Balcones OB/GYN, located next door to Seton Medical Center Austin on 38th street in Austin, Texas. "I wanted to create an experience for my patients' that was soothing-more like a spa than a clinical office," said Dr. Binford, ob/gyn and founder of the practice.

Since ancient times, art has been used as part of the process of healing. This was the inspiration for the design of Dell Children's Medical Center.

The idea hasn't gone unnoticed. Balcones OB/GYN was the only medical office featured in the UPtown DOWNtown tour on October 22, Austin's first-ever commercial design tour organized by the International Interior Design Association.

Her spa design inspiration dates back four years ago when Dr. Binford decided to leave a large group ob/gyn practice to launch her own. Doing so allowed her to build from scratch a practice that she felt best supported the needs of her patients-including a new patient environment.

A substantial amount of research has pointed to psychological and physiological benefits on patients and staff who view actual or replicated natural scenery. The restorative power of gardens, plants, water features and soothing sounds can make patients feel more calm during a anxious visit to the doctor.

Dr. Binford linked up with Elizabeth Clarke, local interior designer currently at GSC Architects, to make this vision a reality. "We incorporated Dr. Binford's passions of nature and the Balcones to create a soothing experience that begins in the waiting room of the office and seeps into the hallways and patient rooms," Clarke said.

Balcones Canyonlands, a National Wildlife Refuge located in the Texas Hill Country to the northwest of Austin, is an area favorite for Dr. Binford. For the design, Clarke used earth tones and nature-found materials like stone and wood throughout the space to replicate the calm aspects of the outdoors.

"It's the overall experience," remarked Binford. "We put value on all aspects of the care process which means providing the best medical care and also creating a peaceful environment."

Balcones Obstetrics & Gynecology, PA
3705 Medical Parkway
Suite 540
Austin, TX 78705


(512) 452-8888