The why: Background story
In the heart of downtown Vancouver, Transcend Specialized Dentistry is more than just a practice. It’s a multidisciplinary prosthodontic, periodontic, and orthodontic specialty centre that reflects Dr. Faraj Edher’s dedication to precision, aesthetics, and uncompromising quality in dental care. As a student, he initially had a deep interest in surgical medicine and discovered that specializing in prosthodontics offered a unique blend of science and artistry, allowing him to combine an eye for aesthetics with his passion for health and wellness. During dental school in Dubai, Dr. Edher always knew he’d return home to Vancouver. With his deep roots in the community and a passion for delivering exceptional specialized dentistry, he was driven to make an impact both locally and globally. Recognizing the need for a centrally located space, he set out to design an environment where accessibility meets boutique luxury care.
The how: Strategic project planning
Launching Transcend Specialized Dentistry was a meticulous process spanning from 2020 to December 2022. Guided by his mantra of “uncompromising quality,” Dr. Edher carefully shaped his vision. Initially, he planned to purchase a space, but after a year of searching, the inflated market and limited inventory in downtown Vancouver made ownership a less realistic option. Finding the ideal location was another challenge that was complicated by shifting real-estate availability during the pandemic. Finally, while securing a suitable 10th floor location, street-level retail vacancies unexpectedly came available within the same building. This presented an exciting opportunity for better exposure and convenience. Securing the space required the merging of multiple units which added months to lease negotiations and construction. Despite the delays, patience paid off. The practice now enjoys prime visibility, an exclusive entrance, and impactful street-level signage, all while maintaining the discretion and boutique experience that defines Transcend Specialized Dentistry.
The results: Technical design features
This practice has redefined “space design” into an exclusive patient-centred workflow. From the moment guests enter the unit it’s clear that it’s a special, well-thought-out, customer-centred facility. Inspired by Dubai’s luxury hotels, the office blends high-quality materials and advanced dental technologies with a deep focus on patient comfort. The 2300 square-foot practice features three fully equipped operatories plumbed for expansion to five. Each is designed with a private in-room living-room-style comfort lounge. Rather than allocating space to a large reception area, Dr. Edher reimagined the patient experience. The mini reception lounge consists of a greeter with minimal seating so that patients are promptly escorted into their private lounge to relax before and after treatment with minimal waiting room traffic. Conversations about treatment plans also happen in this comfortable setting, fostering a boutique patient-centred experience that enhances privacy, relaxation, and personalized care.
The outcome: Practice success & community impact
Dr. Edher’s vision was to redefine the patient experience by combining cutting-edge dentistry with a beautifully designed state-of-the art-facility. Now as the practice thrives, it attracts patients from across Canada and globally. To enhance excellence even further they are expanding the in-house lab. This enables seamless collaborations and the real time overseeing of craftsmanship for delivering customized, high-quality results. Beyond patient treatment, Dr. Edher has a deep commitment to education. He is the founder of the renowned BC Dental Study Club. As an educator, he has a deep desire to provide evidence-based “practical” CE that gives dentists the medical knowledge, clinical skills, and good judgment necessary to apply their learning chairside. With an unwavering focus on innovation, education, and patient-centred design, Transcend Specialized Dentistry is excited to contribute positively towards shaping the future of dentistry.
Equipment Supplier: Henry Schein
Interior Design: Henry Schein
Construction: Seasons 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.
