Dorset Chartered Builders, Greendale Construction Limited has completed an extensive 35-week project that saw Douch Family Funeral Directors’ Lesley Shand branch in Corfe Mullen undergo major refurbishment, re-modelling and modernisation in order to create a purpose built funeral home.
During the build, much of the existing structure was removed, with new walls and a higher pitched roof constructed. Open plan offices and staff areas on the first floor were created, along with funeral facilities including chapels on the ground floor. A larger service chapel has been formed, along with individual chapels which can be securely accessed by families and friends at any time. The new building also boasts a welcoming reception, workshop, coffin display area and visitor facilities.
Externally, the ground floor elevations are clad in cedar boarding with aluminium capping to parapets. The large gabled office spaces are roofed in natural slates with the upper areas clad in contrasting black stained vertical timbers. Ali/timber composite Norrsken windows and doors have been installed. New drainage, mechanical & electrical and external works compliment the whole scheme, giving the Douch Family, Corfe Mullen premises a welcoming and modern feel.
In order for Douch to continue business as usual during the refurbishment, prior to the project commencing Greendale converted a shop on the parade opposite the site, ensuring the family run funeral directors suffered no interruption to the business they have been running in Dorset for over 100 years.
Rob Hooker, Greendale Construction Limited, Director, said: “This was a really enjoyable collaborative project working with DMWA architects and Building Options Quantity Surveyors. Douch has been a joy to work with and the decision-making process very quick and efficient. Greendale was able to influence the buildability side of the project and we believe this has assisted in creating an exceptionaland high quality building. Originally a small bungalow, this amazing transformation now stands out along the Wareham Road in Corfe Mullen. We were also pleased to use the Greendale electrical division to undertake the electrical works on this job.”
Nick Douch, managing director of the group which has eight branches in the county, is delighted with the new-look premises. He said: “While the tradition and history of the business are important, we understand the need for modern, purpose-built facilities. That is why we invest in our infrastructure and the new branch has been utterly transformed by Greendale Construction. We are grateful for the expert advice and guidance throughout the build, not just from Greendale, but our architects DMWA and Building Options Quantity Surveyors.
“It was a large project for our business but has passed incredibly smoothly, and the results are exactly what we wanted. Not only will the branch provide what is necessary for a growing funeral business but, will also be beneficial for the wider community.”