The why: Background story
For Dr. Laurie Viens, owning a dental practice began as a childhood dream. At nine years old she remembers staging pretend dental visits with her cousin, a sentimental moment that is now captured in a photo hanging in her practice, depicting where it all began. Being raised in Dolbeau-Mistassini, Quebec, she grew up deeply connected to family, neighbours, and the close-knit spirit of her community. After completing dental school at University of Montreal, her heart and career aspirations remained close to home. She saw a genuine need to serve this beautiful rural region that is surrounded by lakes, forests, and an active year-round outdoor lifestyle. Dr. Viens envisioned a practice that would reflect the warmth and soulful welcoming vibe of the townspeople and its surrounding rural residents. After graduating in May 2022, securing her space in March 2024 and opening in October 2024, her childhood dreams finally turned into a place for heart-centred dental healthcare.
The how: Strategic project planning
One day Dr. Viens noticed a vacant corner unit in a single-story plaza along a main road. At 3,300 sq/ft, it was larger than her original desires. She decided that it also presented an exciting opportunity which led her to take a phased approach towards her goals. Phase one would optimize the space into a 2,200 sq/ft dental practice, while subleasing the remaining unit, thereby minimizing expenses while enabling her to secure a location with excellent visibility and traffic flow. The clinic was designed for expansion. Five operatories were fully plumbed, although only three were equipped at opening. A fourth chair followed within months, and by February 2026, the fifth operatory was completed. In the meantime, the remaining dental space became a boutique photography studio for clinical documentation and treatment consultations. By letting the practice grow naturally, Dr. Viens created a flexible business model that could evolve at the pace of her growing patient base.
The results: Technical design features
The thoughtful contemporary design blends clean lines with warmth, texture, and soft architectural details. Sculptural wood slat walls and gently arched niches create a natural rhythm that guides workflow and brings a sense of visual calm throughout the space. Terracotta toned feature panels and light wood millwork add depth and character while maintaining a bright, cohesive overall aesthetic. The front desk is an eye-catching focal point that is wrapped in vertical wood detailing with rounded corners that model organic forms in nature. In the reception area, built-in shelving framed by curved millwork introduces playful décor that creates a more engaging experience for younger patients. The operatories balance precision and comfort with white cabinetry, warm toned chairs, and generous windows that fill each room with natural light. The overall design theme supports caring connections and comfortable experiences for patients, team members, and anyone who visits the office.
The outcome: Practice success & community impact
Dr. Viens greatest entrepreneurial concern was whether a rural town start-up could attract enough patient flow. Since opening, Clinique Dentaire Des Grandes Rivieres has created a remarkable connection with patients well beyond its immediate community. Many mornings begin by creating short dental health videos that educate and connect people. Through a strong social media presence, the team now engages with families across the region with some patients choosing to travel hours to receive care. Community spirit is woven into everyday life at the practice, from dressing up at Halloween and handing out toothbrushes to turning everyday treatment moments into meaningful connections. The team is excited to work with such a passionate and caring doctor, which makes the office culture a genuine source of pride for everyone. This practice shows how rural startups can thrive with creative planning and a heart centred passion for serving people.
- Equipment Supplier: Patterson Dental
- Interior Design: Émilie St-Hilaire Design
- Contracting: Construction de l’avenir
About the authors
Darcie is co-founder of Bella Vita Designs Inc; an interior design company specializing in creating beautiful functional spaces for start-ups, remodeling, expanding, or relocating your dream practice. To discuss your office space needs or to have your proud story and unique design featured she can be reached at darcie@bellavitadesigns.ca / IG @bellavitadesignsinc / 905-716-8528.
Peter Barry is Founder of Practice Mastery Inc., a business development coaching company that serves the growth and development needs of your practice. His unique coaching empowers teams, principal dentists, associates and industry companies across North America to achieve extraordinary growth, higher income, and exceptional quality of life. FMI IG @peterbarrycoach, peter@practicemastery.com, www.practicemastery.com, 416.568.5456.