After ten years in our beloved Grey Lynn villa, the sale of the property by our landlords meant it was time to seek a new home. With the considerable expansion over recent years it was an opportunity to find a Centre with a little more space, and one which was slightly more fit for purpose. After an extensive search lasting six months, a new location in Grafton was identified which, having been an open plan office space previously, required quite a few modifications:
Creational of an accessible bathroom for our clients and their families
A large office space for the therapists
Installation of new, dimmable lighting to suit clients’ sensory needs
Upgrades to the emergency lighting for Council compliance
A new kitchen for our families to make use of
An accessible entry way, direct to the car park
The work was well under way in early 2020, with an original move date scheduled for the end of March. This was, as can be imagined, significantly hampered by the first lockdown. Works continued apace in May and eventually - with much excitement and relief for the team, our clients and their families - the new space opened on the 2nd June. Feedback has been incredibly positive, including the ease of location and outside parking, relaxed atmosphere, and décor, which includes artworks by many of our talented clients.
Whilst our wonderful new home was blessed by Hirini Kaa prior to sessions commencing, our opening events were forced to be cancelled due to Covid-19. However we anticipate rescheduling these in the new year, when we will not only welcome everyone to our fantastic new space, but also properly thank those involved in the work. Many thanks to all those involved in this huge project, who include:
Li-fi Ltd | Hathaway Technical Services Ltd | J A Russell | Rexel Lighting | MCS Consulting Engineers | All Heart NZ | Office Furniture Care | Network Visuals | Supreme Air Conditioning Ltd | Business Relocations Ltd | Fuji Xerox