Explore the Best Children’s Murals for Walls to Transform Any Room

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Mural Styles & Themes
Interactive Murals (“I Spy” )
Custom Touches
How to Choose the Right Mural for Each Room
Most-Searched Themes That Work
From Sketch To Easy Installation
Inspiration From Real Kids’ Spaces
Questions We Get All the Time
Send & Share

The first time a child walks into a clinic can feel overwhelming. Their shoulders tighten, their eyes dart around, and fear shows before a word is spoken. But when the walls around them are filled with color, characters, and stories, something changes. A nervous pause turns into curiosity. A smile replaces worry. That is the difference a mural can make.

That’s the power of well-designed kids’ murals. More than decor, they create emotionally safe, story-driven environments that help little ones feel seen, soothed, and ready to explore. Whether you’re designing a child’s room, a full clinic, or a quiet corner that needs warmth, the right mural becomes part of your care.

With 800+ themed projects across North America, IDS Kids specializes in custom and ready-to-install children’s wall murals made with high-quality materials, built to last, and easy to clean.

In this guide, we’ll explore the most-loved themes, how to choose murals by room type, color psychology tips, and the difference between murals and wallpaper, so you can create a space that welcomes every child with imagination and calm.

A Guide to Choosing Children’s Wall Murals That Inspire and Reassure

Why Some Children’s Murals Work Better Than Others

No two spaces feel the same, and neither should their murals. A pediatric dental office needs different energy than a hospital hallway or a school library. At IDS, we design murals that respond to the room itself, its purpose, its light, and the families who use it.

We use high-quality materials, made in Canada and the USA, engineered to withstand daily clinic life. For tight timelines, our IDS Essentials™ Collection delivers ready-made themes with fast and easy installation, but still premium.

Whether you’re designing a magical space for play or a calming backdrop for care, our murals help you create rooms that do more than decorate. They welcome, inspire, and support every child’s journey.

Mural Styles & Themes Kids Love (A Huge Range To Inspire Imagination)

Full-Color Illustrative Murals

A colorful mural of a savanna scene in a children’s room, featuring a zebra, giraffe, flamingos by a pond, crocodile, birds, and a monkey. Dental equipment hangs from the ceiling in the foreground.

Kids love murals that feel like they’ve stepped into a story. In one of our storybook-inspired clinics, we created a gentle underwater scene that wraps around the room. Complete with sculpted ocean curls and sea creatures kids can point to, name, and follow with their eyes. It sets the tone before a word is spoken.

In our safari-themed spaces, soft savannah backdrops and warm animal characters help kids feel safe and curious. And in this hospital project, mural-lined corridors become part of the journey, offering kids something to focus on beyond procedures. These full-color murals don’t just decorate walls; they support calm, imagination, and cooperation.

Calming Silhouette Murals

A dental office with red chairs and dental equipment, featuring an underwater-themed mural with sea creatures and plants, and columns resembling an ancient Greek temple.

For quieter moments and treatment zones, some children need less color, not more. That’s where our silhouette-style murals shine. In our Woodland dental office, soft greys and gentle shapes create a peaceful backdrop that still feels full of life. Instead of bold characters, kids see flowing treetops and animals, just enough art to stir their imagination without overstimulating.

In our silhouette jungle hospital play area, neutral tones and spacious compositions help little ones feel grounded. These murals are especially helpful in exam rooms or quiet zones, where sensory-friendly visuals can calm nerves.

Contemporary Style Murals

Colorful waiting room with a forest-themed mural, gray chairs, a TV, and a bear statue holding a book, creating a playful and welcoming atmosphere for children.

For older kids and modern spaces, contemporary murals strike a perfect balance: sophisticated, clean-lined, and quietly imaginative. These aren’t cartoonish scenes; they’re thoughtful compositions that pair with natural textures like stone or wood and elevate the sense of the room.

In our contemporary series, each image is designed to fit the flow of your clinic, working beautifully in ortho bays, corridors, or upscale waiting areas. The look is mature but never cold. We can integrate brand cues or local touches to ground it in your world, using high-quality materials that are durable, easy to clean, and crafted for seamless installation.

IDS Essentials™ Theme Murals

A colorful dental office room decorated with murals of a jungle scene, featuring a tiger on a log, trees, flowers, and a river, along with dental equipment in the foreground.

Need themed kids’ murals fast, without losing craft? Our IDS Essentials™ collection curates six ready-to-go favorites: Underwater, Jungle, Woodland, Beach, Safari, and Space, so you can create a cohesive, kid-first space in days, not months. Each theme feels playful and polished, a reliable backdrop that helps little ones settle while giving your room a clear point of view. It’s simple, joyful, and built to inspire curiosity and fun.

Behind the scenes, you still get high-quality materials and practical choices: wipe-clean surfaces, durable finishes, and easy installation options for teams that want a quick refresh or a phased rollout across multiple sites. Mix pieces to fit your layout, then add your logo or message for a brand-true look that feels like a tiny, magical space kids remember.

Interactive Murals (“I Spy” ) Picture Find Games for Kids

A colorful cartoon scene of African wildlife by a waterhole, featuring an elephant, flamingos, monkeys, cheetahs, butterflies, birds, reptiles, and insects, with a sign listing animals to find in the picture.

Colorful cartoon scene of outer space with astronauts, aliens, spaceships, floating animals, and a “I Spy” sign among asteroids and planets; playful and whimsical atmosphere with many details scattered throughout.

A vibrant underwater scene with colorful fish, corals, a diver, a snorkeler, jellyfish, a hidden shark, and a wooden sign listing sea animals. The ocean floor is teeming with marine life and bubbles.

Some murals invite you in. These invite you to look closer. Our interactive I-Spy murals are filled with hidden objects designed to inspire curiosity and keep little ones engaged, especially in waiting areas and play zones where time feels slow. Kids love pointing out animals, shapes, or surprises tucked into the art, turning the wall into a game they can return to again and again.

Each mural is crafted with high-quality materials, scaled to your space, and installed by 3M certified installers so it’s made to last. It’s a smart way to blend fun and function, creating a magical space where imagination and calm coexist. An interactive mural does more than brighten a wall. It turns waiting time into playtime, giving kids something to discover, point out, and share. Over time, it becomes part of the rhythm of the room, something children look forward to every visit.

Add Custom Touches to Your Murals

Caricature illustration for underwater wall murals.

When you want a space to feel unmistakably yours, custom mural touches make all the difference. We can incorporate your logo, brand colors, or even staff portraits right into the artwork, making the wall not just decorative, but deeply personal. In our custom mural offerings, we’ve helped clinics turn mascots into friendly greeters and local landmarks into storytelling scenes.

Whether you’re refreshing a single room or building a full themed collection, these details elevate the experience for families and show care in every corner. It’s not just a kids’ mural, it’s your story, your identity, brought to life on the walls. And yes, it’s still designed with high-quality materials and easy installation in mind.

How to Choose the Right Mural for Each Room

When planning children’s murals for walls, one design doesn’t fit every room. Different areas serve different purposes. And the right mural can elevate each one from ordinary to truly impactful. Here’s how to choose the perfect style for each space in your practice or facility.

Reception & Waiting Areas

A row of white chairs with one bright yellow chair in a waiting area; behind them is a mural with silhouettes of animals, plants, and a bird, and large windows showing parked cars outside.

First impressions matter. Large, panoramic murals in these spaces set the tone. Themes like underwater reefs, jungle scenes, or soaring skies turn the waiting zone into a magical space full of wonder and warmth. These kids’ murals invite curiosity and comfort the moment families walk in, turning hesitation into engagement.

Treatment & Exam Rooms

A dentist in blue scrubs and a mask prepares tools while a smiling child lies in a dental chair. The colorful, fantasy-themed office features dragons, castle walls, and floating magical elements on the wall.

A dentist’s office with a vibrant mural of a green dragon reading a book on a stone bridge, wizards flying on broomsticks, birds, and a river with frogs, set in a whimsical fairytale landscape.

Calm visuals help kids relax during moments that might otherwise feel scary. Gentle color palettes, flowing lines, and silhouette-style wallpaper murals help reduce visual noise while still offering friendly images to focus on. In these rooms, distraction is a comfort tool. Choose murals that feel soft, open, and emotionally safe for all little ones.

Playrooms & Libraries

A young boy with short hair and a red shirt smiles while sitting in front of a touchscreen display in a colorful, jungle-themed play area with leafy wall art.

A colorful kids’ area with blue stools, wall-mounted tablets, and a vibrant mural featuring large fruit illustrations, including an orange, lime, and pineapple, set against a jungle-themed background.

Here, murals can be dynamic: part of the fun. Scenes filled with imagination, movement, and even hidden-object games (like I-Spy murals) encourage kids to explore, talk, and play. From dinosaurs to forest creatures, these murals become a core feature of the play environment, supporting development while keeping the room tidy and themed.

Corridors & Hallways

A waiting area with orange benches and walls decorated with a colorful underwater mural featuring dolphins, fish, coral, seaweed, and a scuba diver. The floor is white and the space is brightly lit.

Transitional spaces matter too. Murals in hallways act as visual guides, helping kids move confidently between areas. A journey-themed backdrop adds narrative and flow, like moving from space to earth, or jungle to savannah. These murals entertain, distract, and help kids make sense of the space.

Special Surfaces

Don’t stop at walls. Doors, cabinetry, and even floors can become part of the theme. Extending your mural across these surfaces helps create a seamless world that feels fully immersive. With high-quality materials and easy installation, even small areas can carry a big visual impact without overwhelming the design.

Most-Searched Themes That Work (And Why They Matter)

Choosing the right theme isn’t just about looks; it’s about how the child feels in the room and how easily the space supports connection, play, and calm. These are the murals families search for most and the ones kids remember long after their visit.

Nature & Animal Murals

A dental office room with a green dental chair, a blue stool, and a wall mural depicting a forest scene with trees, mountains, a river, and a flying bird under a yellow sky.

Jungle, Safari, Underwater, and Woodland themes are timeless for a reason. They create an instant sense of calm and adventure, soft lighting, familiar creatures, and just enough visual movement to invite exploration.

Our Jungle and Safari murals blend warm tones and friendly animals, while Underwater scenes use blues and flowing shapes to ease anxiety. In Woodland settings, soft palettes and forest details bring nature indoors, perfect for grounding sensitive kids.

Fantasy & Adventure Murals

A cheerful pediatric dentist office features a colorful mural with a friendly purple dragon, lush greenery, flowers, a waterfall, and cartoon birds. A dental chair and sink are in the foreground.

A mural shows a large red dragon helping a smaller orange dragon, who sits on a rock labeled CAVITY FREE. The background includes cartoon animals, colorful plants, and a campfire scene.

For little ones needing a bravery boost, themes like Space, Pirates, and Fairy Tales offer just the right kind of magic. These murals turn a procedure into a quest, helping children imagine themselves as explorers, astronauts, or heroes ready to take on anything.

Playful & Seasonal Murals

A colorful mural in a waiting room depicts a lively baseball game with cartoon animals, including a bear, alligator selling popcorn, and fans. Stadium chairs face the mural, and a TV displays a real baseball game.

A colorful mural of a cartoon amusement park with a ferris wheel, roller coaster, circus tents, and a panda in a cable car. Four black screens are mounted on the wall in front of the mural.

Looking to bring energy and delight into your child’s room or waiting area? Carnival, Sports, and Candy Land themes add pops of color and playful charm, ideal for celebrating first visits or brightening high-traffic spaces.

Custom Themes and Local Landmark Murals

A colorful mural in a waiting room features a whimsical cityscape with a river, bridge, train, trees, mountains, animals, and playful details. Armchairs face the mural, creating a welcoming, child-friendly atmosphere.

No one knows your community like you do. With our custom mural options, we can include school mascots, local landmarks, or familiar scenery to reflect your identity. It’s a thoughtful way to build trust while creating a space that feels one-of-a-kind.

Why Murals Do More Than Brighten a Wall

Murals do more than decorate; they transform how a child feels in the space. Calming visuals reduce anxiety, spark curiosity, and support emotional comfort during visits. Thoughtfully designed wall murals turn blank walls into story-filled scenes that invite little ones to feel safe, seen, and inspired.

The right colors do more than set a mood. Soft blues and greens ease tension, cheerful accents bring life, and together they create an experience that families carry with them. What children remember is not the procedure, but how safe and inspired the room made them feel. That memory brings them back without fear and gives your team the reward of seeing a child walk in with confidence instead of worry.

From Sketch To Easy Installation: The IDS Kids Process

Every unforgettable space starts with an idea, and at IDS Kids, we guide you from vision to installed reality with care, creativity, and clinical know-how. Whether you’re planning a single feature wall or a full themed environment, our process is collaborative, detailed, and entirely in-house.

Free consultation: Tell us about your vision, layout, and goals. We’ll help you explore options and theme ideas.
Custom concept art: We provide sketches and mockups tailored to your space, with collaborative revisions built in.
Expert production: All murals are crafted in-house (Alberta & Florida) using commercial-grade vinyl, not paint, for vibrant color and long-term durability.
Flexible install options: Our crew handles complex installations, and our ids Essentials™ collection offers easy installation for general contractors or facilities teams.
Built to last: Easy-clean finishes and a limited lifetime warranty ensure that your murals can withstand real-world clinic use.

Whether you need one feature wall or a full space transformation, we make the process seamless and the results unforgettable.

Inspiration From Real Kids’ Spaces

Our IDS mural was installed yesterday and it is amazingly beautiful! I can’t thank you enough for the brilliance and humor it has brought to our new Dental Clinic and to the dedicated pediatric operatory. We are grateful to be able to serve Denver’s homeless pediatric population and improve their oral health in such a magical place. You are a part of serving Denver’s most vulnerable population and on behalf of all of us at the Coalition we are in your debt, THANK YOU and your whole team!

– Dr. Carol Niforatos, DDS

Dental Director, Colorado Coalition for the Homeless

Questions We Get All the Time (About Children’s Wall Murals)

How Are Kids’ Wall Murals Different From Kids’ Wallpaper?

IDS wall murals are site-specific, scaled precisely to your space, and designed to complement the architecture, lighting, and flow of the environment.
Each mural is created using durable, commercial-grade materials suitable for clinical and high-traffic settings.
Unlike off-the-shelf kids’ wallpaper, which often lacks durability or healthcare suitability, IDS murals are custom-designed to fit the wall dimensions and visual needs of the space.
The result is a seamless, professional installation that looks intentional, holds up over time, and enhances both the function and atmosphere of the room.

How Long from Concept Drawings to Install?

Custom murals take a few weeks, depending on the scope. IDS Essentials™ themes are faster and come with easy installation options.

Cleaning & Durability of Murals in High-Traffic Areas?

IDS murals are printed on commercial-grade vinyl designed specifically for high-traffic and clinical environments.
Each mural is finished with a protective laminate that resists scratches, moisture, and cleaning agents, allowing it to be wiped down regularly without fading or damage.
Unlike painted or textured surfaces, the smooth, sealed finish prevents dirt and bacteria buildup, making it suitable for public spaces where hygiene and longevity are essential.

Multi-Site Mural Packages and Brand Consistency of Murals?

We standardize designs across locations to match your brand at every touchpoint.
Digital files ensure identical color, quality, and style of murals across all sites.
Scalable for clinics, hospitals, and multi-location networks.
Matching mural branding maintains a cohesive, professional look in every space.

Have an Idea? Let’s Bring It to Life Together.

The right mural does more than brighten a wall; it transforms a sterile space into a story-led backdrop that kids remember long after their visit. Whether it’s calming a nervous first-timer or creating a playful moment between appointments, the environment you build makes all the difference.

Ready to create a space that inspires confidence and wonder?

BOOK A CONSULT… (it’s free)

Reviewed by Dave Nolan, President of Imagination Design Studios, with 30+ years in themed environment fabrication.

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Turn Hospital Visits into Adventures with Creative, Colorful Murals

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The Healing Power of Murals
Murals That Benefit Everyone
Choosing Mural Themes For Hospitals
Durability
Emerging Trends
Design Your Mural
FAQ
Send & Share

Picture walking through a hospital where the walls are alive with bright colors and playful characters, turning an ordinary visit into an adventure. It’s not just a fun idea – According to the Handbook of Art Therapy, research indicates that murals can reduce a child’s stress by up to 30%, making the hospital feel less intimidating and more comforting. These artistic transformations turn dull, sterile spaces into playful environments where young patients can relax and feel a little bit of joy.

At Imagination Design Studios, we specialize in bringing stories to life through immersive art. With over 18 years of experience, we are North America’s leading experts in hospital murals—transforming medical spaces into healing environments that comfort, engage, and inspire. Our murals aren’t just artwork; they are designed to help young patients momentarily escape the stress of medical treatment and experience a world of imagination.

The Healing Power of Murals in the Pediatric Hospital Environment

In pediatric hospitals, the healing process isn’t just about medicine – it’s about creating an environment that helps children feel safe, calm, and cared for.

Murals, with their panoramic properties and vibrant color, are designed by skilled artists to promote happiness and reduce stress.

They also foster a sense of community by creating shared spaces that uplift both patients and their families, contributing to better mental and emotional health.

The healing power of decor in children’s hospitals is well known.

Helping Kids Relax and Feel Safe

It’s easy for young people to feel anxious and uncertain, especially in new places. But when the walls are filled with bright, fun scenes, things start to feel different. That’s why we use vibrant images – they help take their mind off worries and create a more comfortable space, turning an overwhelming environment into one that’s much easier to be in.

Cute bears make this entrance way feel safe and welcoming.

Bright colors and a fun ocean mural are a stark contrast to cold and clinical spaces children may be used to in healthcare settings.

Psychological and Emotional Impact

Art is a powerful tool for emotional healing. In pediatric hospitals, murals do more than decorate—they provide a sense of control and comfort in a stressful environment. By redirecting focus from medical procedures to immersive, uplifting visuals, murals help children cope better and feel more at ease during their visit.

Soothing underwater murals line the walls of this children’s hospital.

Imagination in Every Stroke

One of the most valuable effects of murals is their ability to spark imagination and creativity. By immersing children in fantasy worlds or interactive scenes, murals encourage playfulness and exploration. Whether it’s a jungle safari or an outer space adventure, murals can turn a hospital room into a space where kids can dream, imagine, and feel free – even if just for a moment.

I Spy mural in a pediatric hospital treatment room.

Friendly Faces for Tough Times

Murals can become more than just decoration. With playful animals, peaceful nature scenes, or even superheroes, they help children feel more connected to their space. These designs can also gently introduce kids to medical procedures, with kind characters showing them what to expect. It’s a way to ease their fears and make an intimidating situation a little more approachable.

Friendly characters adorn the sliding doors and walls of these exam rooms.

Murals That Benefit Everyone: Children, Families, and Hospital Staff

Hospital murals do more than brighten walls—they create an atmosphere of comfort and joy for everyone who enters. Colorful and imaginative designs help create welcoming spaces, reducing anxiety during challenging times.

For Children

Murals can turn a hospital visit into something exciting for kids. Instead of a cold, clinical room, these vibrant artworks make the space feel like a whole new world. Bright colors, playful characters, and whimsical scenes help take away the fear and anxiety that often come with being in a hospital.

When children look at these murals, they’re not just seeing a picture—they’re stepping into a story. Familiar characters or fun themes help them feel at ease and give them a sense of comfort. It’s a way to turn something stressful into a more familiar and less scary experience.

For Families

For families, hospital murals offer more than just visual appeal—they serve as emotional anchors during difficult moments. They create soothing distractions, provide moments of connection, and remind families that hospitals can be spaces of healing and hope, not just medical treatment

These artworks can also be a source of bonding, as families engage with the murals together, discussing their favourite parts and sharing stories that the art inspires. Our murals create opportunities for cherished family moments within the hospital environment, bringing small yet meaningful moments of joy to everyone involved.

For Hospital Staff

For hospital staff, murals contribute to a more uplifting, inspiring workplace. Beyond patient care, these artistic spaces reinforce a hospital’s commitment to compassion and healing, creating a positive environment for both caregivers and patients alike.

These murals also tie into the hospital’s commitment to care, helping create spaces that feel warm, welcoming, and full of compassion. When staff see these designs, they feel proud of the environment they work in, knowing it contributes to the comfort and well-being of everyone who walks through the door.

Things to Keep in Mind When Choosing Mural Themes for Hospitals

The right hospital mural can transform a space—but choosing the perfect theme is key. At IDS, we work closely with hospitals to design murals that fit their patients, culture, and space needs.

Key Factors Influencing Mural Design

Age group of patients: The first thing to think about is the age of the patients. For toddlers, we’d go with bright, simple colors and cute, friendly characters. Older kids might enjoy more detailed, adventurous scenes that spark their imagination.
Hospital culture and branding: Murals should align with the hospital’s mission, reflecting care and healing in a way that feels natural and welcoming. It’s about making sure the art fits smoothly into the hospital’s overall vibe.
Space size and location within the hospital: A mural in a waiting room might call for a larger, more expansive design, while a smaller patient room might benefit from something more intimate and soothing. The mural should feel right for each unique space.

Located in an indigenous community, this mural represents the local culture.

The mural features a medicine wheel honoring the healing traditions of sage, cedar, tobacco, and sweetgrass.

The Comfort of Calming Themes

Popular themes like nature, underwater scenes, and fantasy can positively influence a child’s mood and behaviour. Scenes of lush greenery and gentle animals bring a sense of calm, while underwater worlds offer a peaceful escape, letting kids dive into a soothing adventure.

Fantasy themes add a touch of magic, sparking curiosity and imagination, helping children forget the hospital surroundings and transport them to enchanted places.

Ensuring Long-Lasting Murals in Busy Hospital Settings

Hospital murals need to withstand daily use, so choosing safe, durable materials is key. Non-toxic, eco-friendly paints and water-resistant finishes help keep the artwork vibrant, easy to clean, and safe for everyone.

Ongoing care is just as important. Regular checks and gentle cleaning ensure the murals stay fresh. Quick repairs and proper maintenance keep the space welcoming, offering a bright and comforting atmosphere for patients and families.

Emerging Trends in Hospital Murals: Interactive and Tech-Enabled Designs

Hospital murals are evolving into something really special these days, turning ordinary spaces into something fun and engaging—especially for kids. With new tech like augmented reality (AR), children can point their device at a mural and watch characters move or stories come to life. It’s a great way to make the hospital feel less like a hospital and more like an adventure.

On top of that, hospitals are adding things like soundscapes or walls that change color when touched, creating a calming and soothing atmosphere. These small but thoughtful touches help turn the space into a more comforting place to be. And with big, colorful murals that tell a story, the hospital starts to feel a little brighter, a little more joyful, and full of wonder.

Bringing Stories to Life with Every Mural

Hospital walls don’t have to feel cold or intimidating. With over 18 years of experience, we create vibrant murals that transform spaces into places where kids can feel at ease and inspired. Each mural is designed to bring a sense of wonder, helping to ease the stress of hospital visits. We focus on making every design a story that helps ease the stress of a visit, so kids and their families can feel more relaxed and even smile while they’re there.

Let’s Design a Healing & Imaginative Mural for Your Hospital!

Murals are not just about adding color, they’re designed to reduce stress and spark joy in young patients. We take pride in turning ordinary walls into spaces of wonder, where every corner holds a story and every design creates a sense of comfort. We work closely with our clients to make sure each mural is not only beautiful but functional, helping to make hospital visits feel a little less daunting and a lot more magical for kids and their families.

Get in touch with IDS today to schedule a consultation and start transforming your healthcare space. Let’s work together to create a vibrant environment that makes every visit a little brighter and more comfortable for kids and their families. Don’t wait—let’s bring those walls to life!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Murals Improve the Overall Atmosphere of a Hospital?

Yes, murals play a significant role in improving the overall atmosphere of a hospital. They add color and life to what might otherwise be sterile or dull spaces. The right mural can promote positivity, reduce stress, and even contribute to quicker recovery by creating a warm, welcoming environment.

A hospital sitting area filled with color.

Triage rooms in a pediatric ER ward featured stylish nature themed decals on the doors and colorful I Spy murals within.

How Long Do Hospital Murals Last?

When using high-quality materials and ensuring proper care, hospital murals can last for many years, even in high-traffic environments. UV-resistant laminate and vehicle-grade vinyl ensures durability against sun damage and daily wear and tear. The durability of the artwork ensures that the mural maintains its vibrant look and continues to make a positive impact over time.

Easy to wipe clean when kids get crafty.

Can Murals Help with Wayfinding in Hospitals?

Yes, murals can be designed to include wayfinding elements that guide patients and visitors through the hospital. By incorporating directional symbols or landmarks within the artwork, murals can serve as both aesthetic pieces and practical tools for easier navigation.

Murals in this hospital hallway all lead to the play room.

Do You Create Murals for Outdoor Spaces like Hospital Gardens or Playgrounds?

Absolutely! Murals in outdoor spaces such as gardens, playgrounds, or entryways can completely transform these areas into vibrant, welcoming environments. These murals offer a wonderful way to engage children and families, creating a sense of joy and relaxation outside the hospital building.

Exterior window murals on a pediatric clinic.

Are Custom Designs Possible for Hospital Murals?

Custom-designed murals are one of our specialties. We work closely with hospitals to create unique pieces that reflect the institution’s values, mission, and the needs of its patients. Custom designs ensure that the artwork is tailored specifically to the space and the people it’s meant to serve.

Custom mural for an autism center donor wall.

Contact Imagination Design Studios (IDS) to get started transforming your office from a mundane to magical patient experience.

Want to learn more about design and decor in healthcare spaces?

Design and Decor Tips for Creating Pediatric Healthcare Spaces

Reviewed by Erin Blondin, Creative Consultant at Imagination Design Studios, with a focus on healthcare environments.

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Pediatric Medical Office Front Desk Design Ideas by IDS Kids

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Unique Front Desk Themes
First Impressions Matter
How to Design a Pediatric Front Desk
Bring Your Front Desk to Life
Leave a Lasting Impression
FAQ
Send & Share

Every child’s visit to a medical office should be an enchanting journey where curiosity sparks, fears fade away, and smiles are just the beginning of the adventure. Let’s be honest, the design of kid-friendly front desks in medical offices—be it a pediatric clinic or a family dental practice—can make all the difference. These initial points of contact serve not just as functional checkpoints but as gateways that set the tone for the entire visit. That’s why we believe that the first thing your young patients see should ignite their imagination and soothe their nerves.

With 18+ years of expertise, IDS specializes in blending fun and function, crafting front desks that captivate, comfort, and create lasting impressions. Our themed reception desks turn to wait into an experience kids look forward to.

Unique Front Desk Themes for Healthcare Facilities

A well-designed pediatric medical office front desk does more than just check in patients—it sets the tone for the entire visit. With kid-friendly reception desks, you can transform your space into an engaging environment that eases anxiety and sparks joy. From underwater adventures and jungle safaris to storybook castles, these themed front desk designs make every visit exciting.

Explore our collection of custom pediatric reception desks and see how a creative first impression can turn your healthcare facility into a place kids love to visit!

This engaging ocean scene spans across multiple reception stations, one for pediatric patients and one for OBGYN patients.

A safari-inspired front desk featuring a cheerful, life-sized hippo in a doctor’s outfit, lush savannah murals, and wooden counters. The playful atmosphere makes visiting the doctor a fun and adventurous experience for kids.

A playful and colorful circus-themed front desk at a pediatric dental office.

A sleek and modern reception desk featuring an elegant ocean theme with glowing beluga whale silhouettes. The calming blue and white color scheme, paired with pendant lighting, creates a serene and welcoming atmosphere.

A lively pediatric reception area at the heart of a pediatric ward features a wrap of bamboo murals with jungle animals, lush greenery, and a warm “Welcome” sign.

A vibrant underwater-themed front desk featuring a massive blue whale sculpture suspended from the ceiling creates an immerse in a deep-sea adventure for young patients.

A modern pediatric medical office with a white and green nature-themed front desk designed to resemble tall grass.

A magical bayou-themed reception desk with a “Welcome” sign hanging from a tree branch. The curved desk features a whimsical river mural, with playful animals and lush greenery.

A charming log cabin-style check-in window featuring a “Welcome” sign and playful woodland creatures, including bears and rabbits, handling the front desk duties. The rustic wood design creates a warm, inviting atmosphere for young patients.

First Impressions Matter: Designing a Front Desk That Kids & Parents Love

Imagine this: A child enters your medical office—wide-eyed, unsure of what to expect. Instead of a cold, clinical reception area, they’re greeted by a giant tree in a lush jungle, a whimsical submarine beneath the ocean waves, or an enchanted castle straight out of a storybook. Instead of feeling apprehensive, they should be greeted by a front desk that sparks their imagination—a giant tree in a lush jungle, a whimsical submarine diving into the depths of the ocean, or even an enchanted castle that seems to come straight out of a fairy tale.

But it’s not just about how it looks; it’s about easing those little anxieties and igniting joy. A playful, welcoming atmosphere can turn nervous energy into pure curiosity and awe. For parents, an inviting reception area is more than just visually appealing—it’s a sign that you care about their child’s experience. When kids are happy, parents feel reassured. Our designs show families that you’re committed to more than just appointments; you’re dedicated to creating a positive, stress-free environment for everyone.

How to Design a Fun & Functional Pediatric Front Desk

Unlike mass-produced reception desks, IDS creates fully customized, handcrafted designs that withstand years of high-energy, kid-friendly interactions. Every detail is engineered for durability and ease of maintenance, ensuring your space stays as beautiful as the day it was installed.

Here’s how we do it:

Color & Lighting: Creating an Uplifting Atmosphere

A reception area filled with soft, diffused lighting creates ambiance, ensuring every child feels excited and comfortable as they enter, setting the perfect tone for a positive experience right from the start. Warm tones, combined with softer shades of blue and green, can keep children stimulated yet calm. To captivate young minds, adding imaginative themes like a magical forest, space, or underwater world naturally sparks their imagination, transforming the space into a realm of wonder.

Interactive Fun Zones

Why settle for the mundane when you can create something truly exceptional? Incorporate interactive technologies such as touch screens, textured panels, or storytelling displays that seamlessly align with your theme. Enhance the experience further with a dedicated play zone featuring books, puzzles, or digital games, ensuring children remain engaged while parents manage the check-in process.

Balancing Form & Function

Creating a kid-friendly reception desk goes beyond just playful aesthetics; it’s about crafting a space that genuinely supports both children and their families. Think child-height counters that make young patients feel included and empowered, turning the check-in process into an engaging experience just for them. For parents navigating the chaos of multiple tasks—children, bags, and paperwork—every detail matters. Stroller-friendly pathways are thoughtfully designed to eliminate friction, ensuring seamless movement even when juggling diaper bags, snacks, or restless toddlers.

Safety and Strength

In pediatric environments, safety is non-negotiable. Your design features need soft, rounded edges and durable, easy-to-clean materials, ensuring that your front desk can effortlessly withstand the boundless energy of young visitors. Furthermore, a well-orchestrated check-in system enhances the experience by streamlining staff workflow and simplifying paperwork for parents.

Bring Your Front Desk to Life

We believe your medical front desk should create a captivating first impression. Our designs strike a perfect balance between modern aesthetics and practicality, featuring vibrant themes and lively colors that invite patients in while ensuring staff efficiency. This harmony elevates your space, making it visually stunning and exceptionally functional.

When you partner with IDS, you collaborate with experts dedicated to creating kid-friendly environments. With over 18 years of proven success, we design spaces that are not only enchanting but also resilient enough to endure the daily adventures of young visitors.

Our installations are crafted from premium materials, built to withstand the hustle and bustle of busy families. Whether facing sticky fingers or energetic kids, our desks maintain their charm and functionality, ensuring they remain a delightful part of your clinic for years to come.

Ensure Every Front Desk Visit Leaves a Lasting Impression

Your front desk is the heart of your medical office – it’s where every visit starts and lasting impressions take shape. So don’t let an outdated front desk hold your medical office back; design a space that works for everyone. With warm tones, playful designs, and efficient check-in processes, we create welcoming, functional spaces that ease anxiety and build trust with both kids and parents.

Our design calendar fills up fast! Contact IDS today to schedule a consultation, and let’s create a front desk that sparks smiles and makes every visit unforgettable. Together, we’ll create a front desk that sparks smiles and leaves a lasting impression on every family that walks through your doors.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What role do different colors play in the design of a pediatric medical office?

Warm tones can create a feeling of comfort, while vibrant colors stimulate excitement and curiosity. Using a balanced palette helps to create a positive and inviting environment for young patients.

How does patient flow affect the efficiency of my medical practice?

A well-designed front desk streamlines check-in and check-out, improving appointment management, reducing wait times, and enhancing patient satisfaction.

What can I do to improve the patient experience in my clinic?

Enhancing the patient experience involves creating a welcoming environment with engaging designs, interactive elements, and a focus on comfort.

What services does IDS provide to optimize patient flow in medical offices?

IDS optimizes patient flow with custom front desk designs and interactive features that engage children during their visits.

Contact Imagination Design Studios (IDS) to get started transforming your office from a mundane to magical patient experience.

Reviewed by Erin Blondin, Creative Consultant at Imagination Design Studios, with a focus on healthcare environments.

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Keep Guests on Track with 7 Types of Fun Wayfinding Signage for Pediatric Healthcare Spaces

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1. Welcome Signs
2. Directional Signage
3. Label Signs
4. Monument Exterior Signs
5. Pylon Street Signs
6. Building Signage
7. Fun and Educational Signs and Graphics
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Signs, signs, everywhere a sign!

Signs are a very important part of your visitor experience. They let people know ‘where am I?’, ‘where is my destination?’ and ‘how do I get from here to there?’.

Wayfinding signage is an essential aspect of any business or facility, and it goes beyond just guiding people from one place to another. It is a critical component in creating an organic guest experience that makes visitors feel comfortable and confident in your space. Effective wayfinding signage provides clear and accurate information about the layout and features of the space, from restrooms and exits to amenities and services.

We’re going to focus on child-friendly signage and how to help

While wayfinding signage is not meant to advertise or promote, it does play a vital role in portraying a positive company image and strengthening your brand. It helps visitors to navigate your space with ease, making their experience more enjoyable and memorable.

We’re going to dive into images from the IDS archives and take a look at different types of signs, their purpose, and let you know why they are so important to creating a great environment for children.

7 Types of Signs You Should Use in Your Family-friendly Business

There are many different types of wayfinding signage that can be used to help people find their way: identification, informational, directional, and regulatory. Some of these signs can be more fun and interactive than others. Let’s take a look at some great examples of fun signage that will appeal to children and their families.

1. Welcome Signs

Welcome guests to your office in the most obvious way… with a giant welcome sign! Welcome signs are a type of wayfinding signage that is specifically designed to greet and orient visitors to a business. They create a positive first impression and help visitors feel more at ease when they arrive at your business.

A well-designed welcome sign can communicate important messages about the business’s brand, such as its personality, values, and the products or services it offers. This can help to establish a brand identity that customers can connect with.

Logo Welcome Signs

You don’t have to say the word ‘welcome’ when inviting guests in – welcome guests with confirmation that they are in the right location with a big bold sign showing your name or logo.

Jungle themed sign reading "Children's Dentistry of Pocatello".

2. Directional Signage

Wayfinding signs can help visitors orient themselves and find their way around your business, reducing the risk of them getting lost or feeling frustrated. They will also feel empowered as they will be able to find what they are looking for without having to ask for assistance.

Overall, directional signs are an essential element of wayfinding in a business, helping customers to navigate the space and enhancing their experience. By providing clear directions, saving time, enhancing the customer experience, and establishing brand identity, directional signs can play a crucial role in a business’s success.

Bathroom Signage

Every sign can be themed. Bright, bold colors make these bathroom signs stand out and catch people’s attention.

Instead of traditional bathroom signage, use playful language, silly characters, or puns to make the signs more fun and lighthearted. This appeals to children and will leave a good impression on their parents.

Room and Chair Designations

While wayfinding encompasses many different aspects of navigation, helping people find their intended chair or treatment room is a key component.

To ensure your dental office signage is effective for all age groups, it’s important to consider the needs and abilities of each demographic. For example, if you work with young patients in a pediatric environment, it’s likely that they won’t be able to read a written sign. In such cases, incorporating easily recognizable characters or imagery can be an effective way to help children navigate the space. For instance, the “hippo room” and “zebra room” names may be difficult for a child to read, but associating them with the corresponding animal characters can make it easy for them to identify the rooms at a glance. By considering the needs of different age groups and incorporating visual cues, you can create signage that is both functional and engaging for all patients.

By helping visitors navigate your business more easily and feel more comfortable, navigational signs can contribute to overall customer satisfaction.

3. Label Signs

The importance of clear and concise signage cannot be overstated. In the examples below, visitors will know exactly what each station is used for and if it is for them to use.

4. Monument Exterior Signs

Monument exterior signs are large, freestanding signs. These signs are often located at the entrance to a property, or along a busy road or highway. Monument exterior signs are highly visible and can help draw attention to your business, especially from people driving by or passing by on foot.

A well-designed monument exterior sign can help establish your business as a fun, friendly place catering to children and families.

5. Pylon Street Signs

Functioning similarly to a monument sign but towering hiiigh above traffic, a pylon sign is an excellent way to create a high-impact billboard for your business. By utilizing a tall structure, a pylon sign can be seen from a greater distance, making it an effective tool for attracting new customers and promoting your brand.

Pylon signs are often located near highways or other high-traffic areas, making them an ideal choice for businesses that want to increase their visibility and stand out from the competition. With eye-catching graphics and clear messaging, a pylon sign can be a powerful marketing tool that helps to increase brand recognition and drive sales.

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6. Building Signage

By incorporating big, bold, and 3D exterior signage on their building, businesses can increase their visibility and effectively convey the type of experience customers can expect inside.

Colorful characters can also be added to building signage to make the sign visually engaging and interesting, catching the attention of passersby. Everyone will know your business is meant for kids with this winning combination of colors, characters, and fun!

Such signage can also help your business stand out from the competition and make a memorable impression on potential customers. By investing in attention-grabbing signage, businesses can increase foot traffic and ultimately drive sales.

7. Fun and Educational Signs and Graphics

Signs and graphics are not only informative but can also be educational and fun for children. This is especially true in children’s museums, where signs and displays are designed to teach young visitors about a variety of topics in a visually engaging way.

Colorful and interactive signs with graphics and illustrations can help children retain information better and make the learning experience more enjoyable. Use this technique in your dental office for a fun and engaging experience.

Infographic signs use visual elements, such as charts, diagrams, and icons, to convey information in a clear, but approachable, way. Infographics can be used to provide patients with information about how to maintain good oral hygiene, such as brushing and flossing techniques, and the importance of regular check-ups.

Overall, signs play an important role in helping customers and children navigate through your family-friendly business and communicate important information about your fun brand. Have fun with your wayfinding and make your business the first choice for families in your community!

Want some amazing child-friendly signage of your own? Connect with one of our Creative Consultants today to learn how you can get your own unforgettable wayfinding experience!

Check out more inspiring signage and wayfinding ideas for your office:

Signage & Wayfinding

Landmark Characters

Create a Memorable Patient Experience Through Dental Office Interior Design and Decor

Design and Decor Tips for Creating Pediatric Healthcare Spaces

Contact Imagination Design Studios (IDS) to get started transforming your office from a mundane to a magical patient experience.

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Tips for Creating a Presentation Area in Your Children’s Library

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Select Your Space
Seating for Everyone
Add Multimedia Equipment
Decorate the Space
Engage with the Community
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A library’s storytime area or presentation area is a great space to engage with your community and draw attention to your library. Having exciting decor in a library’s interior area can be a great way to appeal to kids and families. Kids will be excited to attend events and visit the library knowing that it has a space built for them.

Here are ways you can enhance your presentation area and leave an impression on your visitors.

Choosing the Ideal Space for Your Library’s Children’s Presentation Area

When selecting a space in your children’s library that can be dedicated to presentations and storytime with kids, there are several factors to consider to ensure it is appropriate and functional for the purpose.

Firstly, it is important to choose a space that is easily accessible to visitors, especially families with young children where stroller parking space is a factor to consider. Consider a location that is on the main floor, near the entrance, or in an area with high traffic. This will help to increase visibility and encourage visitors to use the presentation area.

Secondly, the space should be visible from various parts of the library. Choose a location that is visible from the circulation desk or other busy areas, such as the children’s section. This will help to promote the use of the presentation area and ensure that visitors know where to go for events and activities.

Thirdly, the space should be large enough to accommodate groups of children and their caregivers comfortably. Consider the average size of groups attending events, and ensure there is enough seating and floor space to accommodate them.

Finally, consider the acoustics of the space. Make sure that it is quiet enough for presenters to be heard without distraction, while also ensuring that it is not too quiet that it dampens the energy of the events.

Comfortable and Inclusive Seating Options for Library Storytime Areas

It’s important to choose seating options that are comfortable for children and their caregivers. Plan for all ages, from toddlers to grandparents. Floor cushions, bean bags, and kid-sized chairs are great options for children, while adult-sized chairs or benches are suitable for caregivers. You may also want to consider providing some tables for children to use for drawing or other activities during events.

The seating arrangement should be designed to allow for optimal viewing and participation. Consider a semi-circle or U-shaped seating arrangement, which allows for good visibility and participation for all attendees.

Adding a small stage or podium can create a focal point for presenters and make the presentation area feel more professional. A podium or stage can also make it easier for presenters to be heard and seen by the audience, especially if the space is large or if there are distractions from other library activities.

By considering the seating and layout of the presentation area, you can create a comfortable and engaging space that will encourage children to participate in literacy activities and events and promote a love of reading.

Enhancing Library Presentation Areas with Essential Multimedia Tools

Adding multimedia equipment to a presentation area in a children’s library can greatly enhance the experience for attendees and presenters. Equip the area with multimedia tools such as a projector, screen, TV, and sound system equipped with a microphone, so that presenters can easily share visual aids, videos, or music with the audience.

If you can, add lighting or a spotlight to draw attention to your presenter.

By equipping the presentation area with multimedia tools, the library can create a more professional and polished environment for events and activities. This can help to attract high-quality presenters and improve the overall reputation of the library.

Creative Decorating Ideas for Inviting Library Presentation Spaces

Make the presentation area visually appealing and inviting for children by adding colorful artwork and murals.

Using Creative Backdrops to Transform Library Presentation Areas

Consider using creative backdrops within your decor to really set the scene at your presentation area. Depending on the atmosphere that your library is going for, you can have anything from abstract, contemporary art to fun and whimsical pieces on your interior walls.

theater themed selfie stage in pediatric dentist office

These unique pieces can also create fun backgrounds for photos that you or your visitors can use on social media when not in use.

Create Wonder in Your Library Presentation Area with a Theme

Consider choosing a theme that reflects the library’s mission or focus, such as nature, animals, or a specific literary genre. This can help to create a cohesive and visually appealing space that ties in with the library’s overall brand. Theming is also a great way to immerse your guests and keep them engaged during presentations.

Themes can include having a woodland forest theme and surrounding your guests with the beauty of trees and the natural environment, allowing them to stay connected to nature indoors.

Or transport children under the sea with a sunken ship presentation area with sharks and fish eagerly watching the speaker.

Having a unique theme and characters that come with it can create a central landmark for your space and help focus attention on your little ones. These spaces can also be talking points for your presentees to help break the ice with their audience.

There are many ways that a library can add exciting, themed decor to its presentation area to appeal to kids and families. Creative backdrops, unique murals, and creating wonder are great ways to begin crafting the environment that you and your visitors will enjoy. With unique environments and themed spaces, your library will be filled with eager visitors and, even better, eager readers.

Engage with the Community in Your Library’s Presentation Area

Ultimately if you want to build an amazing presentation area in your library, you need to engage the community. People are what makes your library a success!

Involve local schools, community groups, and parent organizations in the presentation area’s activities to build partnerships and strengthen community engagement. Plan regular events and activities, such as author visits, book clubs, storytelling sessions, or craft workshops, that can take place in the presentation area. Make sure to promote these events through your library’s website, social media, and other marketing channels.

By following these steps, you can create a presentation area in your children’s library that promotes literacy, engages young readers, and fosters a love of learning.

Check out these related resources for making your library an exciting place to learn:

4 Ways Social Media Can Help Promote Your Library

Say Cheese! Playful Photo Op Inspiration

The Benefits of Themed Decor for Kids

Explore Examples of Children’s Library Decor

Contact Imagination Design Studios (IDS) to get started transforming your library into a place that captures everyone’s attention!

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Here, There, and Everywhere! “Parketing” Tips for Your Vehicle

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Be Clear and Concise with Your Contact Info
Stand Out from the Crowd (and Traffic)
Tell a Story with Your Design
Match Your Vehicle to Your Office Theme
Take it to Trade Shows and School Events
Drive it in Local Parades
Finally, Don’t be Afraid to Park
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This guide will review our top tips to maximize your vehicle wrapping so you can take your practice on the road in style!

Studies from 2016 reported that approximately 15.9 million Canadians[1] and 128 million people in the United States[2] commuted daily to work in a personally owned vehicle. According to the AAA, it is estimated that one car advertisement can reach up to 70,000 impressions a day[3]. Wow! With those kinds of numbers and a sizable portion of those commuters spending an hour or more in their car, marketing on the road might just be your best chance at reaching a large audience without spending exorbitant amounts of money on marketing.

But how do you best catch the eye of the average driver? What info do you want to get across to a potential patient in that brief moment? How do you communicate that info effectively when you only have a captive audience for mere seconds?

Be Clear and Concise with The Contact Info Displayed on Your Vehicle

Choosing what info you want to get across in that short time is pivotal. Make sure your logo, phone number, and URL are visible to drivers on all sides so no matter where in traffic you are drivers know where to reach you.

Make Your Vehicle Stand Out from the Crowd (and Traffic)

While there’s nothing wrong with a simple sticker printed of your logo and stuck on your rear-view window, there’s a high chance you may drive past a potential patient before they have time to notice it. Simple stickers are as forgettable as they are understated.

To really maximize the potential effectiveness of vehicle wrapping, you need to think bold! Bright colors from sunroof to wheel well, roof-mounted sculptures, and both URL and phone contact methods all contribute to a far more memorable traveling billboard experience. With such a small window of impact, you gotta go all the way!

Tell a Story with Your Vehicle Wrap Design

You may only have a few seconds in the eyes of a fellow driver unless you’re stuck in a traffic jam, so you want to get noticed and be memorable.

Utilize bold colors and whimsical characters that set a scene. Include a silly joke to really stand out, like this poor octopus and his frightened crab friend, trying to drive with a broken steering wheel.

Match Your Vehicle Graphics and 3D to Your Office Theme

We might be biased, but when you incorporate your practice theme into your wrapped vehicle, it’s a home run – especially if you have external decor already!

If your community is already driving by the curious safari-themed building everyday, when they see a smaller version cruising down the highway, they know exactly where you’re going. It might even remind them that oh yeah, they’ve been wanting to book an appointment for a while!

Take advantage of what you already have and continue to encourage brand awareness by theming your vehicles with just a taste of what they’ll see if they visit in person.

Take Your Wrapped Vehicle to Trade Shows and School Events

Use your vehicle to grab attention at events. Community fairs and markets are a great place to set up a booth and offer advice for parents or brushing demonstrations for kids. Your vehicle can be used as an eye-catching sign or as a fun photo op for families to draw them to your booth.

Drive Your Themed Vehicle in Local Parades

A colorful and fun vehicle is an instant parade float.

Blast some tunes on your radio, find some volunteers to wave enthusiastically from the windows, and have branded toothbrushes or goodie bags to hand out to the crowds as you pass by.

Finally, Don’t be Afraid to Just Park

If you have a quick commute to and from the office or put your gorgeously wrapped vehicle in a covered garage, you may not be utilizing your traveling billboard to its full potential!

We highly recommend choosing a populous community or main city road to park your vehicle during the day. Think of it like a bus bench or lawn sign – but you don’t have to pay for the space!

If your city releases census data, try and find communities with your target demographic to park your car. Not only is it a constant reminder of your practice, but it also reminds them that you’re local and trustworthy.

Bonus items to add include brochure holders which are cheap, easy, and can hang out your windows with info for curious passersby to take.

Pro tip: Run social media contests around your vehicle. Park your traveling billboard, take a photo, and ask people to guess where you are for a chance to win a prize and drum up more social media engagement, likes, and shares!

Want to see more examples of IDS designed car wraps? Check them out here!

If you’re ready to get your vehicle decked out for your practice, reach out to one of our Creative Consultants today! Let’s get this show on the road.

[1] StatCan

[2] Statista

[3] Signs.com The Benefits of Car Advertising

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Say Cheese! Playful Photo Op Inspiration

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What is a photo op?
Why should you add a photo op to your office decor?
Explore Different Types of Themed Photo Ops
Make the Most of Your Photo Op
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The ultimate investment in both marketing and office appeal, a photo op is the perfect way to make a huge impact in your community awareness.

Unique and fun, a photo op combines form and function by injecting instant playfulness into your space while also working 24/7 to market your brand. But what type works best for your practice? And what more can you do with your photo op once you have it? We’ll explore the answers to these questions and more by examining one of IDS’s favorite additions to any office.

But first and most importantly…

What is a photo op?

A photo op is anything that is eye-catching and lends itself to selfies and sharing with friends or family. At IDS, a photo op is a sculpture or wall mural that is designed to encourage photos. Think posing animals, hole cutouts for guests to put their faces through, or murals with signage that advertise a clinic name or logo.

Why should you add a photo op to your office decor?

The first and most obvious reason is the undeniable fun that a photo op brings to an office. If you want your practice to be known for its friendly atmosphere, nothing says ‘playful’ quite like a smiling turtle greeting guests as they approach your front door.

Second, the marketing value found in photo ops is second to none.

Picture this: A young child just finished she dental checkup, and she has no cavities! Smiling and excited, her mom asks to get a picture of her with the surfboarding pug photo op in the reception area. The pug is holding a sign with your practice logo on it – and when that mom proudly posts the picture of her happy daughter all over social media, her network of parents take note.

The stress of doctor or dentist appointments is top of mind for all parents, and suddenly they see a solution posted by their trusted friend or family member. Your brand is instantly catapulted in front of an entire audience of potential patients, and they already have the ultimate stamp of approval. A photo of a smiling child post-checkup shared to a network of other parents is the holy grail of social media marketing.

This is the true value of your photo op in action. They are the perfect marketing employee – they never stop working for you, and they work for free!

There’s no one way to do a photo op, so we’ll explore everything from giant sculptures to friendly cartoon animals that’ll have parents begging their kids for just one more picture. Our photo ops are specifically designed to be irresistibly fun to kids, and equally irresistible to parents who can’t wait to snap a photo and share it with the family.

Explore Different Types of Themed Photo Ops

Bench Photo Ops

Casual and comfortable, bench photo ops are a great way to really get your patients shoulder to shoulder with your office mascot.

They can be placed indoors or outdoors, and are a great option for guests with mobility challenges who may not be able to pose beside a free-standing sculpture. Put your arm around a friendly fox and her baby, or read along with a safari flamingo.

“Sit-in” Photo Ops

Photo ops don’t always have to be animals or mascots that you stand with – they can also be interactive play pieces!

“Sit-in” photo ops are created specifically for kids to… you guessed it! Sit inside! Children won’t be able to resist crawling in the driver’s seat of a jeep mid-safari expedition or explore a colorful fair-ground snack stand. These photo ops play right into the imagination of a young child and make both great pictures and play places to pass the time pre-appointment.

Large Scale Photo Ops

Patients will say OMG the moment they see your gigantic (and very photogenic) sculpture!

These are the photo ops that patients and even passersby won’t be able to resist posting on social media. The playfulness is simply unforgettable, and the gargantuan size will be easily communicated through photographs with a smiling child standing beside it for comparison.

Posing Photo Ops

These interactive photo ops bring patients right into the action with immersive environments parents and kids can’t resist!

These sculptures feel more like part of a theme park than a photo feature in a dental office – and what a great shot for the social media feed!

Face Cut-out Photo Ops

Another great and playful photo op option to bring your patients on board with your branding is head hole sculptures or wall cutouts.

Any child (or parent) can proudly announce what an amazing experience they had at your practice while also creating a hilarious memory. Who would’ve thought you could have so much fun at the dentist?

Tip: Use accessories, signs, and social promos to make the most of your photo op.

So, you’ve got the photo op installed. People are loving it and it’s brought new life into your practice. How do you take advantage of it? The possibilities are endless, but here are our top 3 ideas.

1. Create a social media campaign with prizes. For example, when people take photos with your photo op and tag you on the social media channel of your choice, a random winner is chosen and given a free checkup, or perhaps another gift. It’s a free promo all over social media!

2. Include signage with different phrases that suit your practice. Allow kids to proudly advertise Cavity-Free Today!, Had a Great Appointment!, or I was Brave Today!.

For an optometry office, try a sign that says New Glasses Day! or My First Pair of Glasses!.

If you own a medical clinic try, I Was Vaccinated Today!, I Got a Shot Today!, or I’m Feeling Better! for children to pose with.

3. Do cross-promotion with other local businesses. Bring the local health food store staff or neighboring orthodontist in to take photos with your sculpture and create a long-lasting connection in your community.

Want some tips on the best ways to utilize a photo op? Check out 5 Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Office Photo Op

For more inspiring photos of photos ops in dental and medical offices, check out Themed Photo Opportunities

Ready to get a photo op of your own? Connect with one of our amazing Creative Consultants today to learn how you can get your own unforgettable sculpture!

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3 Styles of Fun Waiting Room Seating Ideas

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Bench Seating
Circular Seating
Stool Seating
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The truth is, no one likes waiting for their appointment. Despite that fact, waiting is an unavoidable part of receiving care, and whether it be for 2 minutes or 20, there are ways to make even those first moments of the appointment more exciting.

To add a bit of fun to a reception area, you can start from the very chairs your patients are sitting on.

Everyone can take advantage of updated seating, whether it be a simple space needing a pop of color, or a fully themed office wanting to immerse their patients even further in their custom decor. Your guests won’t want to sit on a boring office chair when they’re surrounded by an underwater pirate adventure, so why not make patients feel like a part of the action by letting them sit in the scenery?

To help you bring some creativity to an unexpected place like your waiting room chairs, we’ve assembled a collection of our favorite seating projects for dental and medical offices that maximize your seating space and maximize fun!

THEMED BENCH SEATING FOR FAMILIES

Bench seating is both space and patient-efficient and doesn’t require a ton of square footage to fit a whole lot of guests. Plus it allows families or groups to sit together more comfortably than a row of chairs.

In this fun barnyard themed kids’ playroom, we created hay bales benches to transport kids to the farm while they enjoy a movie or play on a wall-mounted gaming station. Subtle rope ties space off the individual seats while still making visitors feel like they’re home on the range.

Adding a photo op character is another great way to make your bench seating fun (and great for some interactive marketing). Patients will love sitting next to this friendly elephant and maybe take a look over his shoulder to see what he’s reading.

Adding a logo or a sign to a seating area with a photo op creates a great opportunity for organic marketing. Parents will want to show off pictures of their “Cavity Free” kids sitting with a friendly octopus to their friends and family and as a result, your logo will be posted all over their social feeds.

Building seating into your themed sculptures is a must for any fully themed office. This bench seating looks right at home with matching log supports and a cute sculpted leopard head peeking out of the trunk. Kids can make themselves comfortable and play on the mounted gaming stations while sitting right next to their parents.

For a larger space, bench seating can take on a life of its own as the centerpiece of your office. This client incorporated both an exciting jungle adventure scene and a live fish tank into their bench seating. It’s like peering through a rushing waterfall. Practical and entertaining!

THEMED CIRCULAR SEATING FOR CENTERPIECES

Circular benches are a beautiful and immersive way to incorporate your theme into your seating while creating a memorable centerpiece. Adding centerpiece seating to an existing area invigorates the space effortlessly.

There is a reason the tree is a classic centerpiece to circular seating. They evoke feelings of calm and relaxation. Who hasn’t lounged under lush tree cover in a park or a forest? Your patients have it made in the shade while in your waiting room. One focal point tree is a great and simple way to keep up the illusion of the forest without sacrificing practical seating area if you are low on floor space.

For an extra interactive bonus, you can add a tunnel feature for kids to keep themselves busy while they wait for their appointment.

But it’s not all about trees. There are so many ways to incorporate other themes, like ocean or beach, into your seating area! Whether it be a breezy beachside scene with a lighthouse centerpiece or an elaborate deep-sea coral sculpture, you can incorporate the ocean easily into your circular seating.

Above or below the waves, patients will be able to enjoy a day at the beach right in your waiting room.

If you have high ceilings, circular centerpiece seating is one of the best options to accentuate that open area. Seating doesn’t have to be a huge statement piece to be impressive, a small touch can be just as impactful, like this adorable squirrel corner bench.

Create that wow piece that takes your reception area from just a waiting room to a “wow” room!

THEMED STOOLS FOR KIDS

Stools are the perfect seating addition for children waiting in your reception area. Easy to move around and incredibly space-efficient, stools are a simple and cost-effective way to dress up your office.

Log sculpted stools fit in woodland settings with their simple, rustic design – they’re certainly a favorite of ours.

Stools are also an incredible asset when immersing guests in a fully themed space. These colorful aliens look like they’re popping right out of craters in an asteroid while offering comfort and support for each kid’s gaming station. What a blast!

Talk about functional decor! Stools are perfect for any gaming area where you want children to sit back and relax while they are waiting.

Who knew stools could have so much character? This springtime waiting area utilized their rolly polly worm character as comfortable seating that blends in perfectly with their theme.

Updating your office can be as easy as bringing in new and fun seating for your patients to enjoy. Whether it be a simple sculpted bench or a custom centerpiece with surrounding circular seating, updated seating can transform your existing office decor or immerse your guests in an overall theme.

Check out more inspiring seating and decor ideas for your office:

Unique Bench and Stool Seating Ideas for Dental and Medical Offices

Dental Office Interior Design and Decor Tips

Ready to stand out from the competition? Don’t hesitate to reach out and one of our Creative Consultants will be happy to help you choose the most eye-catching seating that works with your unique space!

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Our Top 4 Attention Grabbing Building Exterior Ideas

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Be honest – would you rather your patients say they booked with your practice just because it’s closest to their house or because their kids can’t stop talking about the giant octopus on the roof and they had to come? The answer is obvious.

Transforming your office from a regular building to a legendary local landmark can be as simple as adding incredible external decor that parents and kids won’t be able to drive past without stopping for photos.

Whether it be subtle window decals that make your office seem like it’s hidden deep in the jungle, or a 20-foot tall elephant busting through the wall and into the street, nothing says “fun” quite like well themed exterior signage.

Our clients can’t stop talking about how their external creations changed their practice for the better, so we wanted to showcase a few of our favorite examples to get your ideas flowing!

Why Add External Signage to Your Building?

It’s the ultimate tried and true advertising technique.

If you want to attract new business and become the #1 choice in your community, your community needs to know about you first! Sure, a sign is fine but to stand out from the competition and truly use your brand as a tool, you need to think outside the box.

Think of your exterior design as a silent salesperson. Themed windows or photo op sculptures are constantly working day and night to differentiate your practice from others, letting everyone know that what you’re doing is new and exciting.

Not only is it making your commitment to fun and high-quality obvious to anyone driving by, but it also helps potential patients locate your business.

“Telling patients it is the clinic with the giraffe and alligator is an easy visual landmark to help them find us. This has helped get new patients through the doors.”

– Sheryl Wright, family nurse practitioner

A strong impression will stick like glue, and with the right amount of intrigue in your design, a new guest might not even need to navigate on their phone to your location. They already know where your office is since they’ve passed by your adorable bear sculpture a hundred times, and maybe even stopped to take a picture.

There’s no other way to say it: Attention-grabbing exterior decor makes your business stand out!

ROOFTOP LANDMARK CHARACTERS

The ultimate in external decor, your practice will be seen for miles around with a powerful and fun rooftop landmark! If you have the space (meaning no upstairs neighbors) or your building-mates are ready to be injected with some professional whimsy too, there is no better choice than a rooftop landmark to stand apart from the competition.

Creative multi-character sculptures can stay on theme, like this adorable cast of jungle characters helping each other brush and floss:

Smiling faces peering down from the rooftops are both fun and also more inviting for nervous kids on their way to the dentist:

“I had my staff track every new customer for six months by asking them what it was that brought them to our practice. At the time, I had been spending as much as six thousand dollars per month on newspaper ads, TV commercials and even radio spots. I would have been happy had my new investment been responsible for 50% of the new patients tracked. You could have knocked me over with a feather when the results came in… a full 94% cited the theming above my entrance!”

– Dr. Chuck Hughes, dentist

Or what about this eye-catching octopus that is easy to see from miles around? Both the interior and exterior are underwater themed in this show-stopping clinic, and the cherry on top is no doubt their curious rooftop cephalopod.

“When we opened after installing the octopus on our roof we were seeing up to 59 new patients a day.”

– Dr. Derek Thompson, dentist and owner of 7 themed iffices

GROUND LEVEL LANDMARK CHARACTERS

Like rooftop landmarks, ground level landmarks can be seen for miles around and really define your practice in the community. They also act as a great way to bring your guests in on the action, encouraging them to take photos with incredible sculptures they can reach and pose with.

Ground level landmarks can be built right into the wall, alluding to the theme inside or placed close to the road to draw potential patients. Create a visual story like this high-octane barnyard chase:

Or a smashing vignette like this jungle trio in a Jeep:

See more showstopping decor, inside and out, in this undersea office.

EXTERIOR PHOTO OPS

Fun meets function in any photo op! Not only is a photo op sculpture perfect as a centerpiece to your external decor, it’s a great way for your guests to do the marketing for you. Encourage online photo competitions by giving incentives to patients for posing with your sculpture. Or, take advantage of social media obsessed parents who would love a cute shot of their kid smiling and cavity free after their check up, arm and arm with a grinning turtle.

Photo ops can be placed at the front door of your office as a friendly greeting:

Or a whimsical addition to practical outdoor bench seating:

Show off your theme before guests walk through the door with a fun exterior photo op!

EXTERIOR WINDOW DECALS

If you’ve decided to theme your office interior, exterior window decals are the perfect finishing touch to really bring the environment together. You’re literally wrapping your office in your theme! It’s also a sneaky way to create some intrigue in the minds of potential patients. If the outside looks like a sunny day at the beach:

Or a safari adventure:

– it’s literally a window into another world.

Window decals on their own are great as an exciting and eye-catching addition, advertising to anyone driving by that there’s tons of fun to be had inside.

THE BENEFITS OF Exterior Office Decor

External office decor is the perfect way to start telling your brand story before your patients even walk through the door. It’s eye-catching, innovative, and memorable in a way that few other marketing tactics are.

As they say, “if it ain’t broke – don’t fix it” and businesses have been utilizing fun signage and external decor as long as business has existed. It works for a reason! Externally theming your practice with playful and fun characters is a striking and effective way to tell onlookers just how special and incredible your office is. Needless to say, it was hard to choose our favorites. Which one is yours?

Ready to become a local legend in your community? Landmarks are a great part of an IDS Environment™. One of our Creative Consultants would love to help you transform your environment. Contact Imagination Design Studios (IDS) to get started.

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Top 11 Creative Reception Desks

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1. Frigid and Fun Front Reception
2. Under the Sea Welcome Desk
3. Zoom Around the World Reception Desk
4. A Sophisticated Woodland Scene
5. A Simple Seaside Desk
6. A Fantastical Castle Adventure
7. Pirates in the Bayou Desk
8. Tropical and Technicolor Desks
9. Explore Shipwreck Cove Desk and Play Area
10. Welcome to the Savannah Desk
11. A Dino-mite Desk
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It’s the first and last thing your patients see when they walk through the door of your office, so why not make it exciting? Your reception desk is the first point of contact for any visitor to your practice, new and returning. It acts as the focal point of your office space, drawing the eye to the administration team and guiding anxious new patients who may not know where to check-in.

For these reasons, if you want to bring some fresh new excitement to your office, the obvious first place to start is the reception desk! We’ve created hundreds over the years, but let’s narrow down some of our favorites.

OUR TOP 11 PICKS FOR THE MOST FUN RECEPTION DESKS TO LIVEN UP YOUR SPACE

1. Frigid and Fun Front Reception

The immersive sculptures and murals in this desk design will make you feel like you’re part of the action! By utilizing the desk space itself, it looks like the reception was carved right out of a glacier with snowy overhang still intact. Even the floor is exciting, allowing guests to follow the bear paw prints and penguin flippers directly from check-in to their appointment. Not only is it fun, but also a great distraction for kids who may be nervous.

The treatment area in this office is as cool as the desk.

2. Under the Sea Whale Welcome Desk

This reception desk is the ultimate example of a show-stopping entrance to your office. From the vibrant colors to the life-sized whale, be prepared to have pictures of your front desk plastered all over social media!

Immersive, colorful, and fun, this beautiful front desk has it all. Sculpted seaweed pillars are built right into a beautiful coral reef desk that incorporates both custom 3D fish and vibrant mural work – never mind the giant 3D whale suspended from the ceiling! While not only acting as a dazzling greeting to patients, nervous children will instantly forget their fears of the doctor or dentist the moment they see the friendly whale smiling at them when they come inside.

There’s a lot more underwater decor to see in this office.

3. Zoom Around the World Reception Desk

This globetrotting reception desk has no lack of exciting features to look at! Remember at the beginning how we discussed the front desk as the focal point that sets up the entire office experience?

This jet-setting design sets the theme for the rest of the office, which features a wide variety of exotic environments – will patients prefer the treatment room set in the pyramids of Egypt or the busy streets of London? What a great way to theme your space! This unique build incorporates 3D sculptures on a 2D mural, making each piece stand out even more.

Explore the rest of the world in this dental office.

4. A Sophisticated Woodland Mural Desk

What could be better than walking through the door of your local doctor’s office and being greeted with a serene forest setting? This sophisticated silhouette combines soft greens and browns to create a beautiful and soothing environment while still feeling fun. Done entirely in a 2D mural, the depth of this inviting forest will have patients coming back again and again.

We love this reception desk mural for more teen and adult-oriented environments that still want a unique design.

5. A Simple Seaside Check-in Desk

You don’t have to dive too deep with theming to make a huge impact! The adorable dolphin mural covers the entire front wall, and 3D sculpted dock supports transport any guest to a beachy seaside vacation upon arrival.

Check out the rest of this beach themed reception area.

6. A Fantastical Castle Adventure Reception Desk

This reception desk is like entering a portal into a magical world! From floor to ceiling, the inquisitive dragon and stacks of books will keep kids entertained while their parents schedule their next appointment. For this build, we incorporated 3D characters everywhere possible, utilizing not only desk and wall space, but ceiling tiles as well! The extra book sculpts on the counter really bring the theme to life, allowing staff and patients alike to get in on the adventure.

Tip: can you find the Dental Care for Dragons book?

Like this desk? Check out the entire magical office here.

7. Pirates in the Bayou Welcome Desk

Visual storytelling is a great way to decorate your front reception. In this exciting pirate themed example, kids and parents alike will love the eager crocodile gazing at the eye-patch clad turtle – a great character to grab a photo with while waiting for their appointment. In the background mural, we see a pirate ship silhouette. Is it a pirate ship full of pirate turtles? Who knows! It leaves enough to the imagination to excite any child waiting for their checkup.

Not only is this desk ideal for storytelling, the incorporation of 3D characters both to the side and on the desk itself really brings it to life. Plus, a convenient “welcome” sign guides new patients effortlessly!

There’s more to see in this bayou office.

8. Tropical and Technicolor Reception Desks

Ocean themed desks are one of our most popular designs, and it’s easy to see why! This bright and fun reception desk area is filled with fantastical 2D murals and 3D elements that liven the space instantly. We even themed the dividing walls to look like ocean waves! Can you spot the baby fish?

Explore the rest of this deep sea office decor here.

9. Explore Shipwreck Cove Desk and Bonus Play Area

This bright and colorful reception desk also doubles as the entrance to the kids play area, the perfect example of an IDS Space™! Utilizing the combined reception desk and play area spaces, this entirely 3D shipwreck themed archway makes it feel like you’re entering a whole new world of undersea adventure, while keeping the rest of the waiting area geared towards adults. Not only is this fun for your guests, but your staff will also love feeling like they’re part of the undersea action too.

10. Welcome to the Savannah Desk

We love the way playful animals are used as functional supports in this safari themed reception area. It also acts as a great example that not all custom theming has to be an entire overhaul – the original tile design on the front of the desk was kept while the new design elements were created to surround it. The tall giraffe also acts as a playful photo op, while the thatched roof makes the entire experience feel more immersive.

Click here to tour the rest of this safari office.

11. A Dino-mite Dinosaur Themed Desk

This desk will make your guests feel like they’re part of an exciting archaeological dig! Dinosaurs are a favorite for young and old, so the combination of partially excavated fossils and hanging pterodactyls are both fun and visually engaging. Bonus! The 3D fossils create an exciting sensory experience for children to touch while they wait. This client opted to incorporate their business name into their front desk, and this was seamlessly done by painting each letter to look like the ancient rocks surrounding it.

There’s more to uncover at this dino dig, check out the rest of the dinosaur-themed office here.

Transforming your space is as easy as theming your front desk with a magically creative touch. New patients will instantly know they made the right choice when they see the effort that you have put into your office, while existing patients will recommend your practice to all their friends. Before you know it, referrals will sound like “I go to the doctor with the giraffe at the front desk”!

Interested in more decor and interior design ideas for your office? Check out these resources:

Amazing Reception Desks by IDS

Create a Memorable Patient Experience through Dental Office Interior Design and Decor

Alleviating Patient Anxiety Through Office Theming

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A Guide to Choosing Children’s Wall Murals That Inspire and Reassure

Why Some Children’s Murals Work Better Than Others

Mural Styles & Themes Kids Love (A Huge Range To Inspire Imagination)

Full-Color Illustrative Murals

Calming Silhouette Murals

Contemporary Style Murals

IDS Essentials™ Theme Murals

Interactive Murals (“I Spy” ) Picture Find Games for Kids

Add Custom Touches to Your Murals

How to Choose the Right Mural for Each Room

Most-Searched Themes That Work (And Why They Matter)

Nature & Animal Murals

Fantasy & Adventure Murals

Playful & Seasonal Murals

Custom Themes and Local Landmark Murals

Why Murals Do More Than Brighten a Wall

From Sketch To Easy Installation: The IDS Kids Process

Inspiration From Real Kids’ Spaces

Questions We Get All the Time (About Children’s Wall Murals)

How Are Kids’ Wall Murals Different From Kids’ Wallpaper?

How Long from Concept Drawings to Install?

Cleaning & Durability of Murals in High-Traffic Areas?

Multi-Site Mural Packages and Brand Consistency of Murals?

Have an Idea? Let’s Bring It to Life Together.

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The Healing Power of Murals in the Pediatric Hospital Environment

Helping Kids Relax and Feel Safe

Psychological and Emotional Impact

Imagination in Every Stroke

Friendly Faces for Tough Times

Murals That Benefit Everyone: Children, Families, and Hospital Staff

For Children

For Families

For Hospital Staff

Things to Keep in Mind When Choosing Mural Themes for Hospitals

Key Factors Influencing Mural Design

The Comfort of Calming Themes

Ensuring Long-Lasting Murals in Busy Hospital Settings

Emerging Trends in Hospital Murals: Interactive and Tech-Enabled Designs

Bringing Stories to Life with Every Mural

Let’s Design a Healing & Imaginative Mural for Your Hospital!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Murals Improve the Overall Atmosphere of a Hospital?

How Long Do Hospital Murals Last?

Can Murals Help with Wayfinding in Hospitals?

Do You Create Murals for Outdoor Spaces like Hospital Gardens or Playgrounds?

Are Custom Designs Possible for Hospital Murals?

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Unique Front Desk Themes for Healthcare Facilities

First Impressions Matter: Designing a Front Desk That Kids & Parents Love

How to Design a Fun & Functional Pediatric Front Desk

Color & Lighting: Creating an Uplifting Atmosphere

Interactive Fun Zones

Balancing Form & Function

Safety and Strength

Bring Your Front Desk to Life

Ensure Every Front Desk Visit Leaves a Lasting Impression

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What role do different colors play in the design of a pediatric medical office?

How does patient flow affect the efficiency of my medical practice?

What can I do to improve the patient experience in my clinic?

What services does IDS provide to optimize patient flow in medical offices?

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7 Types of Signs You Should Use in Your Family-friendly Business

1. Welcome Signs

Logo Welcome Signs

2. Directional Signage

Bathroom Signage

Room and Chair Designations

3. Label Signs

4. Monument Exterior Signs

5. Pylon Street Signs

NEED NEW SIGNAGE FOR YOUR OFFICE?

6. Building Signage

7. Fun and Educational Signs and Graphics

Check out more inspiring signage and wayfinding ideas for your office:

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Choosing the Ideal Space for Your Library’s Children’s Presentation Area

Comfortable and Inclusive Seating Options for Library Storytime Areas

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FOR YOUR OFFICE?