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Cambridge Charity

Office-to-Day Centre Conversion – Cambridge

Refurbished a day center for people with leaning difficulties in Cambridge.

Cambridge Day Centre Conversion: Office to Accessible Care Facility

RDS Carebuild partnered with a respected Cambridge-based charity to convert a former office building into a fully accessible, purpose-built day centre for adults with complex needs. This transformation focused on creating a safe, modern, and empowering environment for individuals with physical and learning disabilities.

From Non-Functional to Purpose-Built

The previous facility was outdated, with limited accessibility and a layout that restricted both movement and functionality. Our team reimagined the space from the ground up, delivering a bright, welcoming setting with dedicated rooms for learning, social engagement, and skill development. Each area was carefully designed to foster independence and encourage personal growth for service users.

Accessibility-First Design Features

At the heart of this project was the goal to create an environment that supports dignity, safety, and autonomy. Key accessible features included:

  • Height-adjustable kitchen units with integrated lifting systems, enabling users of all abilities to safely access sinks and hobs.
  • Touch-sensitive safety mechanisms underneath units to prevent hand entrapment and promote safer use.
  • Ceiling-mounted hoist system in the wet room, providing smooth and safe transfers for wheelchair users to the shower area.
  • Two fully accessible toilets and a modern shower room to meet the daily care needs of all service users.

Integrated Fire Safety for Vulnerable Users

Understanding the importance of fire protection in care environments, RDS Carebuild integrated a comprehensive fire safety system into the new facility. These features not only meet but exceed current safety regulations:

  • Fire-rated internal doors (fire doors) installed throughout the centre to compartmentalise spaces and slow the spread of fire and smoke in an emergency.
  • Regularly maintained automatic closers and intumescent seals to ensure fire doors function correctly when needed most.
  • Advanced fire alarm systems and emergency lighting installed to provide early warning and safe evacuation guidance.
  • The layout was designed to support clear, unobstructed escape routes, even for individuals with reduced mobility or using assistive equipment.

A Transformative Outcome for the Community

This project is a powerful example of how repurposing commercial buildings into modern care facilities can deliver lasting value. By prioritising inclusive design, fire safety compliance, and user-centred functionality, RDS Carebuild helped create a space that supports not only the daily needs of vulnerable adults but also their long-term development and well-being.