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Location: Indianapolis, Indiana
In our initial discussions with the Luma team, we quickly aligned on one thing: we wanted to avoid a cold, clinical feel. The space needed to balance warmth with professionalism—comfortable and approachable, yet structured and intentional.
By holding these ideas in tension, our design direction took shape. We incorporated warm tones, wood accents, and varied textures to create an environment that felt calm and inviting. Every choice reflected how to design an office space that feels both approachable and purposeful, with furniture and decor selected for comfort as much as function.
With several part-time counselors sharing rooms, flexibility was essential. Each room needed to serve multiple purposes without feeling temporary or impersonal. One larger counseling space doubles as the director’s office, while another also functions as a podcast recording space.
Soundproofing was equally important. Counseling conversations require privacy, so we added strategic soundproof paneling to minimize noise transfer without disrupting the overall design.
The reception area sets the tone for the entire experience. Instead of a stiff, formal check-in desk, we created a relaxed, welcoming space that helps clients feel at ease from the moment they arrive—another key element when considering how to design an office space for care-centered environments.
For Luma, warm neutrals with subtle pops of color helped strike the right balance between calm and engaging. Soft beiges, wood tones, and earthy hues created a grounded, inviting atmosphere. Textures played a key role as well. Upholstered seating, wooden finishes, and layered decor added depth and interest without overwhelming the space. The goal was a setting that felt lived-in yet professional.
Lighting was the final touch. We swapped harsh fluorescent lights for a mix of natural light, warm lamps, and soft overhead fixtures, creating a soothing ambiance that reinforces Luma’s peaceful, restorative environment.
In therapeutic environments, furniture impacts the experience of everyone involved in the session. Seating needed to be comfortable but not overly casual, supportive without feeling rigid. We carefully selected couches and chairs, ensuring they offered the right mix of comfort and structure.
In shared spaces, we arranged furniture to encourage natural conversation. Seating, tables, and accent pieces were positioned to create a flow that felt both open and intentional, avoiding anything overly formal or hierarchical.
Budget was also a key consideration. Furniture and art selection became its own project within the project, supported by a detailed spreadsheet outlining pricing, sources, dimensions, and color options for each recommended piece. This allowed the Luma team to make informed selections without any financial surprises along the way.
Designing this space reinforced how to design an office space that goes beyond aesthetics and actively supports the work happening inside. The final result balances warmth, functionality, and flexibility, creating a place where clients feel at ease and counselors can do their work well.
