In a care home environment, it is absolutely vital to provide FF&E solutions that are practical, visually uplifting, and – most importantly – safe for residents.  Willmott Dixon approached Southernsbroadstock because they wanted to work with a supplier who was able to fulfil their clients complete list of requirements. Our team was more than happy to help.

Understanding the needs of the client…

It was our substantial in-house manufacturing and supply chain network that made all the difference for Marleyfield Care Home. Other suppliers they had approached previously were only willing to quote for furniture because they couldn’t cater for specific healthcare compliant products. Southernsbroadstock’s extensive industry connections meant that anything we couldn’t manufacture ourselves, we could source on their behalf. This streamlined the entire process for the client and provided additional peace of mind. The care home was also working within a strict budget so our team took the time to visit them on-site to discuss the project in detail.

..and the needs of the end user.

A key project condition was that all of the furniture should be fit for purpose and suitable for dementia patients. Bedroom items were designed to have large, scalloped cut-out drawer and door handles. This allowed patients to see any items inside without opening the cabinets. It was an essential function to help decrease stress in the patients who can feel as if they have misplaced objects when not immediately in view. The finish colours were also very specific. Regular contact with the client and architect ensured all fabrics and RAL colours were precisely adhered to.

Offering flexibility in manufacturing

Much of the furniture made for this project was bespoke with a solution-led design. Seat heights on sofas and armchairs were made to specification so that each area of the home catered to users of all heights. Any pieces of furniture designed to be pressed up against the wall were also made with plinths and notches so that they would fit flush above the skirting boards. We also provided our products in different colours to match the design schemes in different zones of their new contemporary building.

Meeting challenges head-on

Lead time was a factor because of the specific nature of the products required. Our team ensured it remained on target by hand-delivering samples for client approval during a time when postal services were impacted by the pandemic. Regular daily contact ensured that any issues were dealt with immediately, and by anticipating the next steps in the process, we were able to actively avoid delays. This mindset was also carried through to the installation stage. Regular contact with the fitters helped us to remain agile through the entire fit-out and resolve any potential sticking points. Clear and transparent communication with the client throughout made the project feel highly collaborative and was instrumental in delivering the first-class results they needed.

The end result

The fit-out of Marleyfield Care Home is one that truly reflects their clean contemporary look and feel. Feedback has been exceptional and resulted in an additional £15k worth of matching furniture. Our contacts at Marleyfield have been most impressed by the quality of the furniture and the service provided by our installation team on-site.

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