ABSTRACT

The legal medicinal cannabis industry is a worldwide phenomenon. This chapter will trace the industry’s evolution, from its origin in the nineteenth century to modern-day society, where it is gaining widespread acceptance by medical professionals, patients, lawmakers, and consumers. A result of this evolution is the creation of a new building typology, one that combines health, wellness, and education into a unique retail storefront. The four key areas of focus of the medicinal cannabis industry are brand design, interior design, retail design, and security-led design. The chapter presents guidelines for the four pillars of design that both respond to and craft culture. The guidelines are supported by case study examples of real projects that integrate the health and patient experience with the overall design. Forging a positive connection to the cannabis community by creating extraordinary storefront medical practices that are cutting-edge, clean, and professional will transform the patient experience.