NHS England and NHS Improvement
When NHS England put to tender a new project to modernise a number of their estates, because of our extensive track record in FF&E for Healthcare, they chose Southernsbroadstock. The brief was to create smarter working environments where accessibility and diverse needs are prioritised. Our team worked hard to bring a completely bespoke solution for the NHS. A 2-year project; across sites in Cambridge, Southampton, York, Bristol, Manchester and Newcastle. The total project, further expanding across the country, worth in excess of £5 million.
Understanding the four Cs
One of the core principles of smarter working environments within the NHS was the understanding of the four Cs. Communication, Concentration, Contemplation and Collaboration, are the key environmental design drivers in the NHS. It was important to ensure they were reflected in every interior design. Regular meetings were held throughout the planning process to ensure all parties were aligned in knowledge and understanding. Detailed project plans were created to inform decisions down to the smallest requirement.
Planning for smarter working
Through embracing the four Cs, we developed a tailored plan for each NHS property. New environments were created by using a mix of loose fit furniture to create spaces, highlighting each of the four C’s and their necessity. Bright, colourful fabrics and modern furniture designs brought a vibrant feel to the interior and provided an atmosphere conducive to creative thinking. Private booths offer a space where people can take a step back and find a quiet place to concentrate, all without feeling disconnected from the space around them. With a simple ergonomic chair design, to allow for a comfortable place to focus on the task at hand.
Environmentally conscious design
It was also important for the NHS that every project was handled with an eco-conscious mindset. A full audit of assets was undertaken at each site, with as much original furniture repurposed, reused and recycled as possible. This was one of the largest recycling orientated projects Southernsbroadstock has undertaken.