When it came time for Signature Dental to expand and upgrade their facility, the decision was made to move to a new location as well as implement a new perspective to operating their business— they would "go green." To address these needs, doctors Jerry Jacob and Furey Higgins moved their clinic to the LEED-certified Raven Building in Victoria, BC. They redefined practices to meet their business goals while staying in accordance with the LEED program's distinct environmental guidelines.

The term "Going Green" is much more than a bumper sticker. It's adopting and staying committed to building principles and daily practices that reflect the philosophy of conserving global resources while creating a safer and healthier environment. The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) program uses a rating system that is a nationally recognized for "green" buildings. To become certified, projects must earn "points" within each of LEED's five categories: sustainable site development, water savings, energy efficiency, materials selection, and indoor environmental quality.

The Raven Building's "green" features include geothermal heating and cooling, which uses 40% less energy than traditional buildings; water-reducing plumbing fixtures; and large windows to maximize daylight. Twenty percent of the materials in the building are made from recycled material and 30% of the construction materials are regional with over 97% of the construction debris diverted from the landfill. Signature Dental has maintained its LEED compliance through the use of "green" building materials such as carpet, ceiling tile, and flooring developed from recycled materials. They also utilize the latest digital X-ray technology to reduce radiation exposure while eliminating the need for film and processing chemicals. Another method was choosing LED lighting that reduces energy consumption by up to 40%.

The new 3,000 sq.-ft., 8-operatory facility packs a triple punch of décor, technology, and efficiency. Its sleek, contemporary design uses minimalist sensibilities to achieve a sophisticated and highly functional space. High-end technologies fulfill the practice's commitment to deliver the latest in treatment options to its patients. Of course, there is also the amazing impact the new space has on its employees who can now look forward to caring for patients using state-of-the-art equipment and keeping job-related stress a thing of the past.

"The new office has brought happiness and well being to our staff and patients," notes Dr. Higgins. "You spend the majority of your time at the office…make it a place you are proud of and really look forward to working in every day."

Twelve-foot windows are used throughout the office, bathing all of its rooms in natural daylight while accentuating the spaciousness of the new area. Open operatories offer inspiring views of the surrounding landscape, creating a connection with nature that resonates Signature Dental's commitment to green awareness. Interiors make ample use of rich woods for cabinetry, flooring, and unique design elements.