The why: Background story
Dr. Denysse Zoon and Dr. Braden Zoon are enjoying an adventurous and exciting journey at their newly opened practice: Ausca Dental. The married couple originally met in 2016 during dental school in Australia. The location of the university exposed them to complex cases from patients living in the remote outback. This enabled them to gain extensive clinical experience during their studies. After graduating in 2020, they briefly explored the possibility of settling and working in Yellowknife. However, after a visit to see Denysse’s parents in Victoria, BC, they immediately fell in love with the area’s natural beauty and outdoor charm. It reminded them of Australia’s nature-rich landscapes that they had come to appreciate and enjoy during their time in dental school. Braden’s engineering background, combined with their passion for healthcare, gave them a strategic edge towards planning their start-up. Together, they have proudly turned their love for dentistry into a thriving practice.
The how: Planning & preparation
The Zoons also considered acquiring an existing office. Ultimately, they decided to build something special from scratch. Something that is aligned with their tastes, values, goals, and interests. Being highly environmentally conscious, they designed Ausca Dental to be a sustainable practice. From the high-quality, eco-friendly fresh airflow system to the epoxy flooring, every detail reflects their commitment to the environment. This has proudly earned them a “green certification.” The owners chose a ground-floor commercial unit in a low-rise, newly built residential building located in a well-established, yet growing, part of Victoria where large retail stores surround them. They were originally excited to be in the corner unit, but unfortunately, Starbucks secured that spot. This placed them in the adjacent unit with a bustling daycare on their other side. This repositioning turned out to be a blessing in disguise, granting them plenty of pedestrian traffic and new patient flow from both sides.
The results: Technical design features
Ausca Dental is a 2700 sq/ft middle unit with large front and back windows that are designed with patient comfort and environmental consciousness in mind. Every detail reflects their commitment to minimizing their carbon footprint on the planet. They created live moss walls and viewing screens in the operatories. Beautifully designed accent walls mimic the rolling waves of the iconic Bondi Beach in Australia, bringing a sense of natural rhythm and coastal serenity into the overall space. The space was a blank canvas when the Zoon’s first toured it – just studs and their clear vision. The partners have transformed it into a haven that merges modern design with nature, creating a comfortable, relaxing environment for patients and team members alike. The space combines minimal modern design with the stimulating presence of greenery and pops of color on the ceilings.
The impact: Empowered practice outcomes
The name “Ausca” is a nod to their worldly professional development journey, which blends the words Australia and Canada together. In the rapidly growing West Shore Area, where some dental practices have long histories, Ausca Dental is making a bold statement with its fresh, innovative, new design. As one of Canada’s busy spots for development, this area attracts residents with its enviable lifestyle. The Zoons have ambitious plans beyond a single practice. They envision expanding Ausca Dental into a brand that embodies their commitment to excellent care for people as well as the planet. This newly built practice is more than just a place for dental treatment; it’s a symbol of their dedication to serving the community and their dental patient guests with excellent clinical dentistry in a comfortable, caring atmosphere.
Equipment Supplier: Patterson Dental
Interior Design: Spot Design Co.
Contractor: Skyline Contracting
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, remodelling, expanding, or relocating your dream practice. To discuss your office space needs or to have your proud story & unique design featured, she can be reached at darcie@bellavitadesigns.ca / IG @bellavitadesignsinc / 905-716-8528.
Peter is the Founder of Practice Mastery Inc., a Business Development Coaching company that serves the growth & development needs of your practice. His unique coaching empowers teams, principal dentists, associates & 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.
