Executive 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.
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.
-
Before -
After
The Brief
-
Before -
After
The Outcome
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.
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.
BEST Outcomes
-
The environment better meets sensory needs, ensuring a more comfortable experience for individuals and staff.
-
Improved lighting and heating contribute to calmer, more focused sessions, enhancing daily engagement and outcomes.
-
The project was delivered in partnership with experts and service users, ensuring tailored and inclusive solutions.
-
The centre’s infrastructure now supports long-term use with durable, accessible features that reduce maintenance and improve usability.
-
Service users and staff benefit from a more functional and supportive environment that promotes independence and well-being.
-
9-Year Partnership
-
0%
of Phase 1 competed on time and within scope
-
1 Sensory Room Refurbished
“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
