At Tandem Vet Care, an animal clinic in the Boston suburb of Somerville, paws are expected—and pause is encouraged, thanks to the calming concept by principal Dan Mazzarini and his team. For the 4,775-square-foot project, they devised not only the complex technical areas but also places where providers and pet parents can find respite. It begins in the bright and airy reception, anchored by a custom desk in crisp-white solid surfacing, surrounded by the soothing lavender palette that’s throughout. What looks like pale millwork on the ceiling and some walls is actually cellulose wallcovering that’s PVC-free, biodegradable, and FSC–certified (it’s Woods–Figured Red Oak by Momentum Textiles & Wallcovering). A 4-by-4-foot feature paw by Greenwalls is all natural too, made of preserved reindeer moss. Since veterinary medicine ranks among the most stressful professions, taking care of the caretakers was a critical part of the program. The staff lounge goes beyond the usual break-room formula, with a dreamy blue-violet ceiling, soft yet chic seating, and live greenery. Though the facility may be for cats and dogs, all these welcoming spaces are about hospitality—“our shining moment,” as Mazzarini puts it. And that’s true whether you’re on two legs or four.

Interested in learning more about Interior Design’s 2026 Giants of Design? Check out our reports for Top 100 Giants and Rising Giants.