McGann Oral Surgery, San Diego: Photo Tour

The practice renovates a 3,200-square-foot mid-century building into a new home for oral surgical care that blends Japanese minimalism with Scandinavian modernism.

Published: January 14, 2026Posted by April Shernisky

Paul Dyer

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McGann Oral Surgery, San Diego

Having outgrown its former medical suite, McGann Oral Surgery in San Diego relocated to a standalone facility in the city’s Hillcrest neighborhood. Opened in the summer of 2025, the project renovated a 3,200-square-foot, mid-century building, reconfiguring the layout and updating the interior design.

The project team, including John Lum Architecture (JLA; San Francisco) as the architect on the project, employed a Japandi style throughout, which blends Japanese minimalism with Scandinavian modernism to create a calm, residential-inspired space.

Improving daylighting, accessibility in healthcare clinics

The design of the facility ensures access to natural light in all areas, including surgery and exam rooms, with a floor plan organized in a continuous loop. This “doughnut-shaped” layout allows daylight from perimeter windows and circular skylights into the building’s core.

Previously, the building featured a primary entry that could be reached via only a staircase. To address accessibility, the project team shifted the entrance to the main commercial street and constructed a garden patio in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The patio doubles as an outdoor waiting zone adjacent to the lobby.

Glazed windows and doors further connect the interior to the outdoors. Inside, a soft, sand-toned color palette and birch plywood, Japanese screens, and slatted wood walls help filter light through the common areas. Unique features—like handcrafted tiles in the staff kitchen and restrooms as well as Japanese plaster in exam rooms and public spaces—add texture and warmth.