Astrid Dispensary

The client’s brief called for a “non-pharmacy pharmacy”, a modern pharmacy space free from clichés, visually and sensorially breaking down medicinal cannabis stigma. The small space and strict budget made it difficult to create the desired openness while also maintaining the necessary privacy to help patients feel safe. However, ingenuity and simplicity came together to bring the client’s vision to life. The flow of the space starts with the open lounge area, a soothing waiting area for patients as they begin their journey, that is surrounded by greenery and natural materials. While most pharmacies situate their pharmacists and dispensary at the back, Astrid Dispensary defies convention by prioritising the connection and trust between patient and pharmacist through this uninhibited lounge area. While the project made the most of the existing space and repurposed materials and fixtures to meet budget, curved detailing in the joinery created a space devoid of clinical feeling. The duality of strength and warmth found in Tasmanian Oak and Terrazzo stone were combined to create a space which upholds the respect medicine deserves; a space which reiterates Astrid Dispensary’s passion for natural medicine. Every choice ties back to the brand and ethos of Astrid Dispensary.