The Summary
In 2023, OCS begun a nine-year partnership with Scottish Autism. As part of this long-standing collaboration, OCS has supported Scottish Autism in enhancing the Musselburgh site, a day and vocational centre for autistic individuals. The project aimed to improve acoustics, aesthetics, and overall comfort to create a more inclusive and calming environment. The team completed Phase 1 in January 2025, with future upgrades planned.
The Customer
Scottish Autism is a leading charity providing flexible and innovative support services for autistic young people and adults across Scotland. The Musselburgh site offers unique, personalised day and vocational services tailored to improve quality of life.
The Background
Scottish Autism’s Lothian Day Service empowers autistic individuals to build skills, gain independence and actively engage in their communities. The centre offers spacious group areas and quiet rooms for focused activities such as art therapy, communication and technology development. A dedicated kitchen supports the learning of practical cooking skills that can be used at home, and the service provides a calm space designed to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.
Scottish Autism approached OCS’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) team to renovate the Musselburgh site and improve outdated infrastructure that impacts sensory experiences. OCS committed to delivering an upgrade that would significantly enhance the space’s functionality and comfort.
The Challenges & Objectives
The existing interior required improved flooring, heating, lighting and acoustics to produce a more supportive and accessible environment. The goal was to increase comfort, reduce sensory stress and improve the well-being of individuals who attend the service and colleagues.
The Project
OCS accepted the project in June 2024, with designs developed by Mike Laurie Architects and CJA Consulting in October 2024. The renovation works were completed in January 2025, marking the conclusion of Phase 1 with future plans to improve the west side of the building.
The Solution & Implementation
The renovation included:
- Lowering the ceiling with a lay-in grid suspended ceiling to improve acoustics.
- Installing bespoke LED lighting to create a more soothing environment.
- Replacing old radiators with low surface temperature radiators to enhance safety and comfort.
- Upgrading flooring and repainting to improve aesthetics and durability.
Derek Liddell, Derek Graham, Tam Ramsay, Scott Simpson, and Colin Rushforth were key OCS team members involved in the project.
Before
After
Before
After
The Outcome
The upgraded environment provides a calming space that aids sensory regulation and reduces anxiety. Colleagues have reported improved well-being among the service users, with noticeable benefits from the enhanced lighting, heating and acoustics.
“The improvements have not only improved the aesthetic of the interior but has taken into consideration the sensory requirements of our individuals who attend the Day Service. The new lowered ceiling, lighting and heating have contributed to reducing the stress levels and maintaining the well-being of our supported individuals and staff.”
Jacqueline Brown
Services Manager at Scottish Autism
“From the outset, the joint target between Scottish Autism, Michael Laurie Architects and OCS was to create a more sensory considerate space. Improving the look and feel of the service was also key to a positive experience for both the supported individuals and staff who use it daily, with works on Phase 1 complete, we feel we have achieved this. OCS are delighted to continue our partnership with Scottish Autism and look forward to working together on future phases of the project.”
Colin Rushforth
Account Director at OCS
