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Rebecca East

Whisking Up Support for Macmillan Coffee Morning

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A huge well done to our Chorley, Farlington, Kimbolton, and Portsmouth offices for each hosting their own fantastic Macmillan Coffee Mornings this year for Macmillan Cancer Support!

Thank you to everyone involved. Together, we’re truly baking a difference!

If you’d like to join us in support of this wonderful cause, you can donate here.

Every small act of support makes a meaningful difference in the lives of children with cancer and their families.

Showcase PSR Unites for Childhood Cancer Awareness

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Throughout September, the Showcase PSR team has united in support of Children with Cancer UK, a cause that means so much to us all.

Alongside Showcase Interiors Ltd and Renovo Services LLP, we have proudly worn yellow ribbons to mark Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. Whether in the office, performing site visits, or even walking our office pups, we’ve made sure to be loud and proud in raising awareness and sparking conversation about this vital cause.

If you’re able, we invite you to join us this September in donating to Children with Cancer UK to support children battling cancer: https://lnkd.in/dxguxi4s

Every small act of support makes a meaningful difference in the lives of children with cancer and their families.

Showcase Summer Conference | Dubrovnik 2024

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Early doors on 6th June and the entire Showcase group set-off on the 10th Annual Summer Conference. Departing from Stansted, Gatwick, Heathrow, and Manchester airports to celebrate, destination Dubrovnik, Croatia. Known for its medieval architecture, laid back culture, and paradise surroundings bordering the Adriatic coastlines, Dubrovnik was the perfect place to set the scene for the celebrations of a milestone year.

Having briefly touched down in Dubrovnik and the team’s first surprise was revealed as the coaches pulled up alongside the picturesque quay side, where a fleet of ten ‘Showcase’ yachts awaited. Leaving the still of the river, the impressive 10 strong yacht fleet dominated the open seas, creating another milestone moment. Mooring up in several scenic spots, some went for a dip, while others lounged on deck, soaking up the sun, often boat hopping to mingle. It was a fantastic way to bond, with laughter and conversation flowing freely as the yachts cruised side by side.

Replacing traditional team building tasks and challenges, Showcase’s approach fostered greater space for genuine conversation and new introductions perfectly matched by the calming surroundings.

Returning back to the hotel, it was time for the long-awaited BBQ on the hotel’s exclusive sunset terrace, with views of Dubrovnik’s old town and mountains. Traditional Croatian dishes were served as the sky turned to sunset. Teams mingled, making new friends with recent recruits and reconnecting with familiar faces. The evening ended on a high note with a lively disco, making the perfect end to a perfect day.

With an early start on the second day, we began our largest summer conference yet held in the hotel’s conference hall. With over 100 attendees, team managers shared updates and successes from across their teams with an outline for future ambitions and goals. Reports of the growth and achievements across Showcase, Showcase PSR, and Renovo outlined the group’s collective progress; with highlights being our expanding departments, sustainability targets, and project milestones.

Moving onto the conference’s breakout sessions, it wasn’t long before the competitive spirit present reappeared. The first challenge took place outdoors, and involved navigating bouncy balls down a track, only using one arm. The first challenge of the day sparked creative solutions, and admittedly, some cheating! The second challenge, a brainteaser, guessing team members’ names from a series of pictures.

With the conference closing, it was by no means the end. Back on the coach, the team received their first hint of the second activity. Receiving the ‘Dubrovnik Team Photo Challenge’ booklet made it evident that they were about to embark on a scavenger hunt through Dubrovnik’s historic Old Town. The challenge presented the opportunity to explore Dubrovnik through its enclosed streets and alleyways, capturing images of famous landmarks such as the gargoyle head and the Jesuit Staircase. As well as learning about Dubrovnik’s culture, the task provided unforgettable memories that will be remembered through all the photos collected.

The team enjoyed some downtime after the challenge, with some returning to the hotel for a splash in the pool whilst others stayed on at the Old Town to explore the quaint shops. Before long, it was time to meet for our farewell dinner at the distinguished Posat, one of Dubrovnik’s top fine dining spots with open terrace views. It provided the perfect set-up for a relaxed and enjoyable evening, filled with great food and time to reflect on our experiences.

The warm hospitality and beautiful scenery were unforgettable, but it was the opportunity to connect with the team that made the truly special. Whether it was chatting on the yachts, competing in breakout sessions, or exploring the city, the event brought everyone closer after a busy six months.

Returning to our offices, the positive energy from our Summer Trip has remained, with team morale remaining high. Dubrovnik 2024 has reinforced the importance of team spirit and quality time, especially important amongst a growing team. As the team look forward to our next adventure, we continue working hard behind the scenes to ensure that the upcoming experiences can be even more memorable.

An Unforgettable Christmas Conference | Triumphs, Laughter, and Heartfelt Giving

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Showcase Christmas Conference 2023 | Spreading Joy in the Streets of London  

Our recent Christmas conference brought together the vibrant spirits of Showcase, Showcase PSR, and Renovo in a conference that transcended the ordinary. From morning to night, we celebrated our year’s successes, shared laughter, and embarked on a heartfelt mission to spread joy beyond the walls of the workplace! 

The day kicked off as managers from each team took to the stage, telling of their triumphs, highlighting collective achievements of the past year, and sharing the aims for the coming year. But it wasn’t all serious business – jokes and laughter flowed, setting the tone for the day ahead. 

Team building took a hilarious turn with activities such as guessing the employees whose faces were morphed together. The competition was on, as teams tried to unravel the comical combinations before them.  

The highlight of each year is undoubtedly the charity portion, and this was our most ambitious yet!  Working closely with The Cardinal Hume Centre, a wonderful organisation devoted to helping families and young people overcome poverty and homelessness, we gave our teams several challenges to complete. 

A super team were gathered to embark on a ‘Revitalise and Build’ mission at The Cardinal Hume Centre. This challenged the group to transform the centre’s dated counselling rooms into welcoming and comfortable spaces. The garden received a makeover, lit with twinkling lights and a newly built playhouse assembled by the group. A Christmas tree stood tall, decorated with care by our hard-working elves. 

Meanwhile, other teams were sent on a scavenger hunt around the streets of London, collecting items to assemble Welcome Packs and Hostel Move Packs. From saucepans to slippers, the essentials were gathered to create a sense of home for those transitioning to The Cardinal Hume Centre’s accommodations. The competition was in full swing, with certain teams causing a stir as they raced to the stores, clearing the shelves ahead of the others.  

The final group remained at the conference venue, packing school backpacks to the brim with essentials and goodies for the young children at The Cardinal Hume Centre.  

Once all teams had returned, it was all-hands-on-deck for our teams to pack the vans to the brim with all the kits, which were delivered directly to Cardinal Hume Centre for immediate use. 

After a day of hard work, success, and giving, we shifted gears to the approaching evening. With a black-tie dress code, the team did not fail to impress. We reconvened for a Christmas dinner and an evening filled with festive spirit!  

Our Christmas conference was not just an event; it was a testament to the power of collaboration, consideration wrapped in laughter, and joy that comes from making a positive impact in the lives of others. Here is to our incredible team during the festive season! 

Showcase PSR Scores Big with Local Fire Services

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In keeping with our growing commitments to developing our social values, we are pleased to announce that Showcase, alongside Showcase PSR and Renovo, are proud sponsors of our local Emergency Services Football Teams, including: 

  • Essex Fire Service Open Age Football Team 
  • Essex Fire Service Veterans Football Team 
  • Cambridgeshire Fire Service Football Team 
  • Hampshire Fire Service Football Team 

It is a joy to see our branding emblazoned on the stellar teams’ kits, worn by exceptional players, both on the pitch and in their respective workplaces. This sponsorship serves as a testament to the Essex, Cambridgeshire, and Hampshire Fire Services for the unhindered support they show our local communities, which we are extremely thankful for

Many thanks to Ongar Fire and Rescue services for kindly inviting us for an action-packed visit to meet the crew and gain insights from inside their station (and fire engine!). Though our team may look like naturals in their fireman’s gear, rest assured they will not be quitting their day jobs!   

Showcase, Showcase PSR, and Renovo highly anticipate the seasons of triumph that lay ahead. Our teams look forward to attending future matches together and sharing our unwavering support.  

London School of Economics

London School of Economics | Eco-Conscious Consultancy

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Showcase PSR Portsdown went through a rigorous tender process which included setting up a Virtual online Showroom to present products to the stakeholders for them to make final product selections. Showcase was awarded the contract in March 2021 and was required to work alongside LSE’s Capital Development team and Grafton Architects.

Showcase were required to advise at consultations with LSE Project Management Team and Departmental Stakeholders, Academics, Teaching & Learning groups, and the Students’ Union layouts & selection. The bespoke elements were worked on through a series of ‘Design Workshops’, which were attended by senior members of Capital Development, the project manager, Grafton Architects and Showcase.
The Marshall Building is a new building designed by Grafton Architects which spans 12 floors. The building is beautifully designed, housing LSE’s Department of Finance, Management, Accounting, Students’ Union and Systemic Risk Centre.
Showcase PSR Portsdown were required to compartmentalise the furniture across the first and second floors, the Academic Spaces from the third to ninth floors, the Great Hall on the Ground floor, the Outdoor Terraces on the first, second, eighth and ninth floors, and the Students Union. Each setting had a different aesthetic and practical requirement, whilst delivering on the same quality and throughout the building.

The Teaching and Learning spaces included six lecture theatres, six classrooms, one conference room, and large breakout areas consisting of collaborative, group and individual study spaces throughout.
The Academic spaces comprised cellular offices, multiple occupancy offices, MSc & PHD offices, meeting rooms, common rooms, reception areas, and kitchen areas.

The Great Hall is a vibrant, inviting space encouraging groups and individuals to work, study, collaborate and relax. This houses bespoke unique pieces of furniture such as the Butterfly Benches and Bramante booths, mixed with the familiarity of a mix of soft seating, collaboration tables (low and high), armchairs, café furniture and individual high back chairs.

The SU required Music Rooms, Lobby, Lockers and Kitchen furniture. The beautiful outdoor terraces comprised a mix of tables, chairs, benches, lounge chairs and ottomans – a perfect summertime setting.

In addition to the extensive range of tasks involved in furnishing the space, the emphasis on sustainability introduced additional demands. Ensuring that all furniture items met the LSE’s criteria for recyclability and recycled content necessitated a rigorous vetting process underscores the project’s dedication to environmental responsibility. This demanded additional time and increased team efforts. This process required thoroughly informing the client of each manufacturer’s practices and materials, but it was completed within the stipulated time scale. Furthermore, the need for sustainable verification added complexity to the project, but the team’s dedication ensured it was accomplished within its specified timeline.

This commitment to sustainability underscores the project’s dedication to environmental responsibility and highlights today’s growing importance of sustainable design and procurement. For the client, a completely stress-free process in sourcing the products was provided and coordinated by Showcase PSR Portsdown. They remained educated and informed throughout on the choice of suppliers and knew precisely how they met their sustainability expectations.

Showcase PSR Portsdown was expected to offer products at the best value and often suggested alternatives to products specified to aid the project team in managing the budget whilst adhering to the project requirements.
Showcase PSR Portsdown also provided all drawings with product furniture legend and asset tagged all the furniture in the building whilst maintaining consistent team update meetings throughout the project. Showcase PSR Portsdown managed the snagging process and went over and above to ensure that the timescales, budget, and quality of service were consistent throughout.

University of Cambridge

University of Cambridge | Overcoming Deliverable Obstacles

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The project required the furnishing of the newly developed Student Services Centre (SSC), a part-refurbishment of a group of pre-existing Grade II listed buildings (ground floor of part of the Old Cavendish Laboratory and Rayleigh Wing, whole of the Arts School) and part-new-build (replacement to the Old Exams Halls). The areas covered throughout the project spanned various office spaces, meeting rooms (some of which are for shared use), an exam hall on the ground floor, and a new atrium space in the new building. The project also focused on a shared common room and shared staff facilities.

Showcase PSR Portsdown was awarded the Furniture package in April 2018 and worked closely with Bennetts and the client groups with product selection, budgets and timescales.

Bringing the various departments from small buildings spread across Cambridge into one purpose-built central location brought several challenges. Identifying them and providing the correct storage to meet the needs of the different departments was a crucial element tothe success of this move. With the guidance of Dana and her team, we surveyed the existing storage within each building. The results of these visits were documented.

It was important in the following stages that we assessed how to accommodate the individual requirements within each area of the new Students Services Centre. We achieved this by identifying a range of system storage with a comprehensive number of different heights, drawer options, shelving and filing solutions at a price that fits the project budget.

University of Staffordshire

University of Staffordshire | Providing Solutions to Your Budget

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The Catalyst Building. A new 8,800 sqm, four-story building, bringing together apprenticeship and skills delivery to meet employer demand in a flexible, high-quality, digitally enabled space.

The Catalyst Building was designed to reach and welcome current and future students, staff, and employers. The project, valued at £850,000, offers world-class services and settings, supporting students through their education and employment.

Innovative furniture solutions were used to achieve the university’s goals, such as AV-integrated meeting booths and reconfigurable furniture to accommodate flexibility and collaboration.

The project spanned a number of areas, including the café, collaboration space, meeting rooms, learning market, teaching space, an IT Suite, and the Foyer.

The client’s budget was considerable but was limited by the size of the building which required a large amount of furniture. As not to compromise on the design, Showcase PSR Portsdown sourced a mix of furniture from local manufacturers as opposed to using branded products in some areas. We achieved this whilst maintaining quality and without exceeding the budget.

The process was managed using a schedule and expertise of the market’s furniture availabilities and pricing. The result was a stunning environment for students and staff to innovate and prosper.

University of Hertfordshire | Creative and Effective Workspaces

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The Enterprise Hub provides a designated modern and fully equipped co-working space, beneficial for early-stage businesses and entrepreneurs to use flexibly. It includes collaborative yet informal learning/work zones, a start-up business incubator, open-plan areas, and offices. The Enterprise Hub facilitates the delivery of teaching and studies through teaching spaces, exam spaces, and social café & dining spaces. The project had to align with the brief and architect’s visions of an industrial and modern style. This was accomplished, resulting in a stunning working space.

The project demanded a comprehensive product selection as well as bespoke item design. As the sole supplier, this posed a time challenge. Nevertheless, Showcase PSR Portsdown worked alongside the main contractor to create an installation plan, ensuring the building opened on schedule. The instalment took place during the start of COVID. Therefore, it was over a year before we received feedback from staff and students as they could not immediately enter the space. However, the feedback was overwhelmingly positive. The Hub is now the most used and visited building on campus.

Kvadrat Really Textile Tabletop

Reducing Waste | Sustainable Tabletop Solutions

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Kvadrat Really Textile Tabletop

Today, nearly half of the world’s CO2 emissions stem from constructed environments, while building materials contribute an additional 20%. Astonishingly, the current recycling rate for textile waste stands at less than 1%.

Kvadrat Really is taking immediate action to mitigate the harm to our planet by producing high-quality circular materials from textile waste, addressing these critical challenges head-on. Their innovative no-waste approach pioneered the creation of high-quality Textile Tabletops, leading the way toward a future with zero waste. This remarkable product eliminates the equivalent of 60 t-shirts from waste streams, equating to 13.5 kilograms of reduced waste per tabletop.

The Textile Tabletop is a versatile, sustainable solution meticulously crafted from end-of-life cotton and wool materials. What sets it apart is its commitment to eco-friendliness, being 100% recyclable. This durability extends beyond its eco-conscious construction, as it complies with the highest standards for withstanding scratches, heat, and liquids, earning it a Category 5 rating for furniture surfaces.

This innovative Textile Tabletop is thoughtfully designed, arriving in pre-coated sizes ideally suited for office and home environments. It offers a selection of timeless colours, including Cotton Cream, Cotton Blue, and Cotton White, and the choice of oak veneer or ABS edges, ensuring effortless coordination with contemporary interiors. Even more remarkable is that it requires no additional surface or edge treatment, making it a plug-and-play circular design solution.

Textile Tabletops are readily adaptable for new or existing table frames, fitting the industry norm for workspace tabletop sizes. Moreover, the materials used in crafting this tabletop consider current resource streams, aligning the elegant colours with sustainable practices. The oak veneer or ABS edges can be applied pre-delivery or with the material, providing flexibility and ease of use. The Textile Tabletop embodies both durability and sustainability, making it an ideal choice for various design and functional needs.

Kvadrat Really materials are engineered from end-of-life textiles. These come from production waste and leftovers from industrial laundries, the fashion industry, and Kvadrat’s production and supply chain.

Produced on-site in Denmark, Kvadrat Really’s materials are colour and quality-controlled. The standard ones they offer are based on cotton and wool blends. However, their pioneering production process allows for many different fibre compositions.

Milling – Kvadrat Really materials are milled into fibres to ensure homogeneous surfaces and colours. Innovatively, our standard products are crafted with short fibres. As a result, the different tones from the upcycled denim, cotton and wool can be blended into a simple, repeatable pallet of colours. Our milling process also allows the use of different fibre lengths and flakes to create particularly expressive, individual materials.

Air-laid – The milled fibres are mixed with a binder specially designed for textile fibres and recyclability. The blended fibres are then formed into sheets of Textile Felt using air-laid technology. No water is used during this process, reflecting our commitment to a no-waste future

Compression – To create a Textile Board and Textile Tabletop, sheets of Textile Felt are layered around thicker textile mats. Subsequently, they are compressed in a process that balances a low temperature with high compression.

The finished product – Kvadrat Really materials are designed for circularity. By agreement, they can return used products, recycle them into new ones, and return them to the client. The collected Kvadrat Really materials are sorted into colour families and re-milled. Subsequently, the fibres are blended into standard products or used to create a base for second-generation Kvadrat Really materials.

 

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