“The care sector has been our life for two decades and we have such a close connection to the area, so this nursing home means so much to us. We’re delighted with the service and value that Furncare have provided and can’t wait to welcome our first residents.”

Kathy Ragunathan, Ashton Group Director

Kathy Ragunathan is a chartered accountant and Director of Ashton Group and controlled many of the financial and operational aspects of the new build. Along with her husband Gaj, both are experienced elderly care providers with a growing portfolio of premium care homes in West Sussex and Surrey.

The Ashton Group employs around 360 staff across their various sites, including the new Ashton Meadows Nursing Home. Gaj Ragunathan was born in neighbouring Kingston Hospital and attended Tiffin’s Grammar School just a few hundred metres from the new nursing home.

Award-winning, multi-disciplined studio, DesignLSM, were commissioned to design the interiors, boasting a glowing reputation of delivering inspiring concepts within the hospitality, leisure and senior living industries over the last 36 years.

“Blending our vast experience in hospitality and senior living design, Ashton Meadows is set to present residents and staff with a beautiful home to enjoy – showcasing a luxurious concept that embodies tranquility, freshness and refinement.”

Taryn Kallie, DesignLSM, Interior Designer

DesignLSM were already developing early concepts for the project when Bincy Mathew of the Ashton Group visited the Brighton Care Show in 2022. Having met Sheldon Southall on the Furncare stand, further meetings were arranged in London and Kingston over the next few months. A Furncare delivery vehicle loaded with sample furniture was taken to the site for first-hand assessment. Final specifications, bespoke upholstery designs, soft furnishings and budgets were then agreed. The final order was placed at the end of 2023, scheduled for spring and summer deliveries in time for an official opening event at the home in June this year.

“You can’t beat trying out the furniture itself. Taking actual samples to Kathy and Gaj took all the hassle out of the process for them. Our show van enables us to take furniture from our showroom to customers, no matter where they are in the UK.”

Sheldon Southall, Business Development Manager, Furncare

Everything from tables, lounge chairs, sofas and dining sets to bedside cabinets, curtains and soft furnishings were installed in scheduled phases. All the furniture, including cushions and bed linen, was delivered on schedule and placed ready-to-use in individual rooms – an aspect of the service which was especially appreciated by the nursing home team. Curtain poles were installed and curtains professionally hung by the Furncare ‘White Glove’ Moving Team. Even the patio sets were assembled and arranged in the gardens in time for the eagerly awaited summer sunshine and the VIP open day in June.

Read more by clicking HERE 

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Special Projects Team

In their most recent refurbishment project, ‘Chapel View’ in South Yorkshire has been refreshed and upgraded. The Furncare Special Projects Team oversaw the project, led by Arnie Goodenough and Jade Eaglen. Although not a dedicated dementia unit itself, Chapel View compliments nearby Group dementia care homes Riverside and Field View, with support and respite care services.

Having measured up and taken a comprehensive client brief during a site visit with owner and Director Andrew Wood and his father in February 2024, Furncare Project Design Manager Jade set about turning their ‘vision’ into a stylish, functional and homely care home.

With the help of Molly Tinker, one of over 20 staff based at the Furncare Head Office, floorplans, room layouts, mood boards and costings were then developed. Originally inspired by bold, distinctive wall coverings in another Wood Care Group home, the final designs help to create a suitably confident yet stylish environment.

Tactile & Organic

New customer lighting was factored in to ensure maximum benefit was achieved. For the seating, rather than opt for stock upholstery fabrics, bespoke faux leather was utilised extensively to provide a more tactile and organic feel. The Overton dining room cabinets featured Mountain Oak natural wood surfaces and a Mussel paint finish. Just days after the designs were submitted, they were reviewed and given an emphatic ‘thumbs up’ by Andrew Wood.

“You got our vision in one.”

Andrew Wood, Owner & Director, Wood Care Group

It’s all in the detail…

With only minor adjustments left to address, most of which were to accommodate new lighting plans, the order was signed off. Despite the bespoke requirements and tailor-made upholstery, Andrew and his sister Jenny greeted Jade and the Furncare ‘White Glove’ Team just a few weeks later when they delivered and installed the interiors – cabinet furniture, seating, curtains, blinds and soft furnishings. Delivery was scheduled by the Logistics Team and the Furncare National Distribution Centre to synchronise with the customers construction team so had to be flexible and ‘on-call’ to ensure the seamless completion of the project.

“The style and variety of our ranges provide interior designers with such a wonderful choice of quality furnishings to work with. Chapel View showcases our ability to tailor-make exceptional interiors for care homes.”

Jade Eaglen, Project Design Manager, Furncare

Still able to accommodate further last-minute adjustments on site, the team were able to deliver and install all the lounges, the ‘Pub’, cinema and dining room in full and on schedule.

“The entire installation was completed without needing to close any sections of the home whilst the work was done. It was highly professional and completely hassle-free.”

Andrew Wood, Owner & Director, Wood Care Group

Read more by clicking HERE 

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Team Effort

The Furncare team including Sheldon Southall, Declan Turner, Arnie Goodenough and Jade Eaglen have all contributed to The Chestnuts success story since receiving the first order in 2016. The latest chapter started in the Spring of 2024 when Declan and Arnie met with Arnas and deputy manager Stacey at the home. A few days later, Arnie returned with Furncare Project Design Manager Jade to discuss the brief, identify the interior themes and preferred fabrics.

High Quality, Stylish Interiors

It was imperative to maintain the high standards of quality and style, yet still work to a set budget and specific lead time as the building works progressed.

“You’ve managed to really understand what we are after and have transformed our thoughts into something really special.”

Arnas Mauremootoo, Owner, The Chestnuts

Meeting all the quality, style and value requirements, the Furncare Liberta Vie ‘Grandios’ and ‘Remini’ on-demand stock ranges were ideal. Although available within just five days, installation was scheduled with a seven week lead time to synchronise with construction and decorating schedules.

Highest Rating Possible

Liberta Vie is a Collection of pre-designed, coordinated room themes. Grandios features quality cabinet furniture, seating and soft furnishings. The upholstery chosen features calm, neutral tones with rust highlights which give the rooms a warm, homely appeal.

The choice and flexibility within the Furncare on-demand ranges enables customers to select additional and alternative products from stock to tailor-make their ideal interiors. Karsson cabinetry was chosen at The Chestnuts as the clean lines and contemporary style of the wardrobes and drawer units perfectly complemented the look and feel Arnas was after.

Remini is the latest award-winning Furncare dementia range. Having achieved the highest rating possible from The University of Stirling Dementia Services Development Centre (DSDC), Remini has become a popular bedroom and communal space design solution for dementia units across the UK. It was launched exclusively by Furncare in March this year and accredited with A1 and Gold Standard ratings by the DSDC in May.

With the first Chestnuts residents now comfortably settled in their new rooms, Furncare’s Project Design Manager, Jade Eaglen, is delighted to see the project reach such a successful and hassle-free conclusion.

“Our Liberta Vie Collection features no less than 14 different themes and styles. All can be tailored to suit specific requirements, and that’s how we managed to create such exclusive, stylish environments for Arnas and his team at The Chestnuts.”

Jade Eaglen, Project Design Manager, Furncare

Read more by clicking HERE

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Where it all began

Arnie Goodenough and our team worked closely with Mariah Chapman, Procurement Manager at Brainkind, and Chris Race of Jefferson Sheard Architects. Initially, we were asked to provide samples for a Briankind refurbishment site in York in September 2022. The Furncare furniture was tested, assessed and rated by the Brainkind team and by residents at the York House site. It received the thumbs up and our enduring relationship with Brainkind was established.

The Old Chocolate Factory

Ambititious plans for an alternative Neurological Centre new-build just a few miles away emerged shortly after. Furncare were invited to tender for the innovative and complex project which is located on the former Terrys Chocolate Factory site in York. The project presented many challenges for Brainkind and Jefferson Sheard Architects, but we were still able to produce and supply all the furniture for 36 ensuite rooms, transitional living apartments and extensive communal areas.

“From the outset, Furncare demonstrated a deep commitment to understanding our unique requirements and vision for our flagship service. Their expertise in providing high-quality sofas, armchairs, tables, side chairs, and cushions has been invaluable in creating a space that not only meets but exceeds the expectations of our clients and staff alike.”

Liam Busby, Brainkind

A Nurturing and Comfortable Environment

Our Logistics Team scheduled all deliveries with Brainkind, and the renowned Furncare ‘White Glove’ site team ensured almost 600 items of furniture were delivered hassle-free in August last year as arranged, fully assembled and placed in pre-allocated rooms and communal spaces.

Liam Busby went on to thank Furncare, and is confident that “Brainkind – Neuro Centre York will provide a nurturing and comfortable environment where individuals can focus on their rehabilitation and journey towards recovery”.

Younger people with very different needs

Arnie Goodenough of Furncare added “The Neuro Centre in York is a fantastic example of how we work so well with centres catering for younger people with very different needs and preferences to residents in care homes for the elderly. Brainkind fulfil such an important role in the sector and we look forward to supporting their next project with all our resources, commitment and energy as always.”

Read more by clicking HERE

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Competitive Tender

Originally designed in 2008 by award-winning RIBA architects Noma, Shaw Healthcare invited Noma back to upgrade and refurbish interiors at the already striking facility. Working with Katharine  Hegarty from Noma and Geraint Evans from Shaw Healthcare, Furncare won a competitive tender to furnish communal areas on three floors of Sycamore Lodge, including the spectacular atrium dining area, garden rooms and linkways. Bright, bold new garden-themed interiors were designed by Noma following consultation with residents at the home.

Made to Order

Bespoke Furncare furniture was made to order. All the pieces were manufactured, upholstered, delivered and installed in plenty of time for the official unveiling of the refurbished facility by Sir Liam Fox MP last month.

“We’re so impressed by Furncare. It’s great to receive such a reliable service and great quality, especially with something as important as our furniture.”

Geraint Evans, Director, Shaw Healthcare

The dramatic atrium floods natural light into the heart of the building, allowing luxuriant potted plants to flourish. Against the dramatic backdrop and overlooked by open spaces on three floors, the light communal dining area on the ground floor has been furnished to the highest standards. Bespoke high-performance upholstery on the Furncare dining chairs, paired with Livonia dining tables, enables residents to dine in comfort and style in the light airy space.

Bespoke Upholstery

The outdoor theme continues into the garden rooms. Lush foliage on the wallcoverings is perfectly complemented by more bespoke upholstery on all the Furncare sofas and soft seating. With faux leather and stylish fabric combinations, the seating is set off beautifully with floral designs, complementary colours and contrast piping on the matching cushions and soft furnishings. With comfortable seating, coffee tables and rest spaces for residents along the corridors too, the building provides a seamless, quality environment for the residents of Sycamore Lodge.

“Shaw Healthcare, Noma and Furncare have shown how great partnerships help to create wonderful environments for residents. Sycamore Lodge is living proof of that…”

Katharine  Hegarty BArchDes, DipArch, PGCert RIBA, Director, Noma Architects

Read more by clicking HERE

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Woolton Acre is a magnificent Grade II listed manor house nestling in a beautiful woodland setting in the north west of England. It is undergoing a comprehensive refurbishment and upgrade, with Phase 1 now fully equipped and furnished to provide outstanding care for the residents who will soon be moving in.

Unusually Short Timeframe

The refurbishment has been completed to exacting standards despite the unusually short timeframe available. Having acquired the property, the new owners were keen to complete the turnaround with minimum delay. In mid-December 2023, Furncare were invited to bid in a competitive tender to furnish all 48 bedrooms and communal areas, including the lounges, dining rooms, day clinic, bar area, quiet rooms, isolation room and corridors.

“Daniel set us a challenge which we were ready, willing and able to meet. The turnaround at Woolton Acres is most impressive, and Furncare are proud to have played a part in it.”

Arnie Goodenough, Furncare Special Projects Manager

Look & Feel of a Bespoke Designer Solution

Detailed interior design proposals were developed at Furncare which even suggested decorative specifications and lighting schematics to ensure every room was bright, light and safe. Despite the look and feel of a bespoke designer solution, all the items were from stock, and guarantees were provided assuring delivery within days of confirmation.

The contract was signed in January 2024 and all 1,831 items ordered were delivered from the Furncare National Distribution Centre and installed in each room just days later in the first week of February.

Impeccable Care

Daniel Blaney confirmed Furncares ‘White Glove’ delivery team “arrived promptly and took impeccable care with installation”. He was full of praise for the “outstanding dedication to customer satisfaction” from the Furncare team, and added “Their attention to detail, genuine care, and understanding of the unique layout of our building make Furncare Woolton Acre’s top choice for furniture purchases.”

Phil Gill, Woolton Acre Site Manager, was equally impressed. “I’ve never received better service in my 30 years experience. I didn’t have to lift a finger…”

Looking Forward to Phase 2

With hase 1 now complete and staff recruitment and selection in full swing, Daniel Blaney is now shifting his focus to the next phase which includes a further 23 bedrooms. Arnie Goodenough, Furncare Special Projects Manager, is looking forward to supporting the Woolton Acre team once again to deliver all the furniture and soft furnishings from stock as before.

Read more by clicking HERE

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Complementing the Admonere cabinets in the Remini Dementia Collection, are coordinated lounge and visitor chairs, upholstered in contrasting high-performance fabrics.

The Remini Collection features specialist room themes for those living with dementia. It includes fully electronic profiling beds, matching curtains, soft furnishings and accessories, and achieved the highest ‘Gold Standard’ rating.

Creating dementia-friendly environments

Having celebrated the news, the panel then explored more factors to consider when caring for residents with dementia, creating dementia-friendly environments and improving CQC ratings. Hosted by Mike Goldwater from Furncare, Lynsey Hutchinson and David Wilson-Wynne from the DSDC joined Ruth French of Stow Healthcare and Director of The Outstanding Society, and Paul Gaskell from Runwood Homes on the panel. Jade Eaglen, Interior Design Coordinator at Furncare completed the expert line up.

Dementia is like a thief…

David Wynne-Wilson from the DSDC gave an overview of dementia and the care challenges it presents. Paul Gaskell of Runwood Homes explained aspects of his dementia care model and training courses. He likened dementia to a thief, stealing different things from different people. “When we know the individual, we can see what dementia is stealing, and can help to replace some of those missing pieces.”

Ruth French agreed, and highlighted the importance of documented evidence of change on the journey from ‘requires improvement’ to an ‘outstanding’ CQC rating. She recalled the documented story of a resident who could no longer shave himself. Trained carers encouraged him to use a vegetable peeler to prepare carrots until he regained sufficient manual dexterity to use a razor again. A great example of how ‘lost’ functions can be retrieved with the right care and encouragement.

Light Reflectance Values (LRV)

LRV helps designers to plan dementia-friendly interiors. Lyndsey Hutchinson explained how these important values measure the contrast between different surfaces. 0 indicates black whilst 100 indicates white. Lyndsey recommended a difference of at least 30 points between surfaces to help dementia residents to make sense of their environment. Jade Eaglen agreed, and explained why the LRV for each product is specified in the Remini Collection.

The Remini Dementia Collection is available from stock within just five days. For more information and to see the Dementia Matters webinar, visit furncare.co.uk/remini or call 01603 664 900.

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Furncare have launched a series of informative webinars featuring specially invited expert panelists. The webinars will share professional insight and industry best practice, helping delegates to deliver outstanding care frameworks for residents and carers.

On 2 May, the first panel will gather for the ‘Dementia Matters’ webinar to discuss dementia and dementia care. Academics and prominent care professionals will debate the factors to consider when creating ideal environments for residents with dementia.

Panelists confirmed for the 2 May webinar include Linsey Hutchinson and David Wilson-Wynne from the University of Stirling Dementia Services Development Centre, Ruth French of Stow Healthcare, Paul Gaskell from Runwood Homes, Claire Peart of Barchester Homes and Jade Eaglen from Furncare.

Mike Goldwater, Dementia Matters moderator, is confident delegates will find the webinar informative and inspirational.

“We’re packing a lot into the session so there’ll be something for everyone. I’m particularly interested in hearing the experts views on the impact of physical environments, and the science to consider when planning care home interiors.”

 

Care industry professionals, residential care home owners and mangers can register now for their free place on the Dementia Matters webinar.

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How do environments impact on life with dementia?

For those with dementia, ‘visuospatial difficulties’ are commonplace. Cluttered or brightly coloured interiors can trigger confusion and frustration. Conversely, a lack of definition or contrast can have the same effect. Getting the balance right is difficult, but optimum levels can be achieved.

Developed in partnership with leading academics and care professionals, The Remini Dementia Collection from Furncare is an exclusive new furniture collection specifically for those living with the condition. It includes a range of specially designed bedroom interiors with four distinct room schemes to accommodate individual tastes and styles.

Definition and contrast

An unreliable memory is a widely recognised symptom of dementia, as is confused spatial orientation. Some may forget what’s inside a drawer whilst others may be unable to open it. That’s why special cut-outs feature in Remini furniture soft-close doors and drawers. This enables residents to see what’s inside without having to open them.

Whilst cut-outs in the wardrobes, cabinets and dressing tables provide a simple way to open drawers and doors, users will be more familiar with conventional handles. They’ve been incorporated too, as a comfortingly familiar alternative way to access what’s inside.

Remini furniture features rounded edges and is finished in contrasting colours and textures. Drawer fronts and doors are matt grey, whilst cabinets are finished in natural oak. This distinction and the contrast it provides is invaluable. Similarly, contrasting fabrics are used in the upholstery of the seating. Even the cushions feature contrast piping to help users process the shapes and edges. All fabrics are fire retardant, water and stain resistant.

Seeing the light

With age, more light is needed to see, and glare can be a problem. When selecting colour schemes for those with dementia, ‘Light Reflective Values’ are important. Referred to as LRV, this measures how much light is reflected or absorbed by a surface. Black has an LRV of 000 whilst white has an LRV of 100.

For those with dementia, visuospatial processing can be helped by factoring sufficient contrast in to surfaces. If tonal values of furniture and the wall behind are too similar, the furniture itself can be difficult to see. An LRV difference of 30 points between adjacent objects will help residents to distinguish between them. Any less can have the opposite effect.

The Remini Dementia Collection from Furncare features coordinated interiors and quotes LRV ratings for each item. It recommends complementary wall and floor coverings for perfectly balanced LRV interiors for those with dementia.

Download the new Remini brochure here. The Collection can be viewed at our Showroom – click here to schedule a visit.

Alternatively, speak to a friendly Furncare consultant on 01603 664900 or email Email Us

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