08/13/2026
If you are opening healthcare locations across multiple states, should you use one design firm for every location, or hire locally each time? 🤔
Hiring locally is not always the wrong choice. A local firm may already know the jurisdiction, inspectors, and regional construction environment. For a one-time project, that can make good sense.
The challenge comes when an organization begins to scale. Each new firm brings another kickoff and learning curve. Your team must explain its operational requirements and design standards again, while also making sure lessons learned and brand consistency carry from one location to the next.
Through our work with several long-term, multi-location clients, Arium AE has seen firsthand the value of continuity. Clearway Pain Solutions and its associated facilities, shown here, are a strong example: we have designed more than 30 locations across multiple states, ranging from clinics and procedure suites to ambulatory surgery centers and physical therapy spaces.
Every location has presented different site conditions and regulatory requirements. What has remained consistent is the design playbook and our integrated architecture, interior design, and MEP team carrying knowledge forward.
For one location, a qualified local firm may be the right choice. For a growing portfolio, continuity can reduce repeated decisions, maintain standards, and help each project benefit from the one before it.
That is the difference between completing 30 individual projects and building a program that improves with every location.
If your organization is working through this question, we are always open to a candid conversation about what approach makes the most sense. Ask us anything.
See details on the Clearway Pain Solutions work in the comments.