Opened in February 2010, Oak Lodge is a new, purpose-built BUPA care home for elderly residents in the residential area of Bitterne, four miles from the centre of Southampton and close to the local shops and amenities.

The Customer:

BUPA was established more than 60 years ago in the UK and is now an international healthcare company with customers in 200 countries.  It offers personalised, specialist care in the UK to residents in nursing and residential care homes.

The Project:

Oak Lodge is a 71-bed care home, providing specialist dementia care facilities as well as a day centre for the elderly.  The £5.7 million development was delivered by BUPA and Southampton City Council.

The Balustrade:

Fusion Commercial stair balustrade was installed on the main staircase to provide a safe and stylish barrier.  The system's combination of minimalist oak handrails and sleek tubular balusters in a contemporary brushed nickel finish complemented the building's modern decor and other good quality furnishings, whilst its availability off-the-shelf meant there were no lengthy lead times.  Richard Burbidge also supplied wall-mounted handrails for installation in various corridors throughout the building.

"Oak Lodge's residents were the top priority when selecting FUSION Commercial stair balustrade, as we had to carefully consider the use of decor to aid orientation.  Its unique mix of timber and metal means it provides modern and minimalist elegance, which complements the decor of the nursing home perfectly".

"The Richard Burbidge system is independently strength tested in line with UK Building Regulations, providing an important safety barrier for staff and residents, so the product not only looks attractive but is also fit for purpose. In fact, we have been so impressed with the system we plan to use it for future specification projects".

Sandy Scott, BUPA Care Service

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