Dementia UK
Staying Put, but Thinking Differently
Dementia UK is a specialist dementia nursing charity. Their specialist nurses provide life-changing advice and support, to anyone affected by dementia, whenever it is needed.
When Dementia UK’s lease renewal prompted discussions about their future workplace, the charity faced a key decision – relocate to a new office or refurbish their existing one. After assessing their options, the team chose to stay put and reinvest in their current space, making it work harder for their people and their mission.
We were appointed to reimagine their London office – improving accessibility, functionality, and wellbeing while maintaining continuity for staff and visitors.
Collaborative Design Process
We led three in-depth design workshops with the Dementia UK team to shape the brief and final design.
One of these sessions focused specifically on making the space more dementia-friendly and inclusive, ensuring that colours, layouts, and lighting supported clarity and comfort for all users.
Through this collaborative process, we balanced practical workplace requirements – like accommodating a growing team – with the charity’s commitment to accessibility and wellbeing.
Smarter Space Planning
To make better use of the available floorplate, the open-plan area was reconfigured to create additional desk positions. Two private offices were removed, freeing up space for new collaboration zones and touchdown areas where teams can connect informally.
A general storage room was converted into a DDA-compliant accessible toilet, improving inclusivity and meeting current accessibility standards.
The kitchen was also upgraded with new worktops, doors, and a lowered DDA section, ensuring equal access for all.
Sustainable and considered design
Sustainability was an integral part of the project. Constructive Space facilitated the supply and installation of furniture using a blend of new, existing, and second-hand pieces.
The pre-loved items were sourced responsibly from other clients of ours, and another tenant within the same building who were moving out, reducing waste and cost. The furniture package saw the addition of 4 acoustic phone booths, and a 4-person meeting pod to allow for further choice of work settings.
Throughout the office, planters and greenery were introduced to promote biophilia and support wellbeing, while LED lighting upgrades improved energy efficiency and reduced long-term running costs.
Finishing Touches
Finally, the workspace was decorated throughout, with fresh finishes and custom glazed manifestations incorporating Dementia UK’s branding to bring warmth, identity, and pride to the space.
The result is a refreshed, sustainable, and inclusive workplace that enhances comfort and connection – ensuring Dementia UK’s team can continue their important work in a space designed to support them.
