A modern waiting area with green chairs, wood flooring, teal walls, and large windows displaying a nature scene.

Avalon Centre Brain Trauma Unit

Bold orange stylized letters "SJ" form a logo with "EST 1980" in white text beneath the design on a light background.

Project Overview

Client:

Avalon Centre

Location:

Avalon Centre Brain Trauma Unit, Swindon

Scope of Works:

The project involved the complete internal decoration of the centre

A spacious, well-lit lounge with sofas, armchairs, a table with chairs, large windows, and neutral-colored decor.

Project Overview

The Avalon Centre Brain Trauma Unit is a specialist healthcare facility providing rehabilitation and support for individuals recovering from brain injuries. The centre required a full internal redecoration to enhance both the therapeutic environment and overall functionality of the space.

Stephen Jabs was commissioned to deliver a comprehensive commercial painting project, with a total project value of circa £50,000.

Scope of Works

The project involved the complete internal decoration of the centre, including:

  • Corridors
  • Day rooms
  • Canteen areas
  • Communal and circulation spaces

The objective was to create a clean, calming and durable environment suitable for patients, staff and visitors.

Key Challenges

Healthcare environments—particularly brain trauma units—present specific challenges:

  • Patient Sensitivity: Colours and finishes needed to support cognitive recovery and avoid overstimulation
  • Operational Continuity: Works carried out with minimal disruption to ongoing care
  • Durability & Hygiene: Finishes required to withstand frequent cleaning and meet infection control standards
  • Wayfinding: Subtle visual cues required within corridors to aid navigation

Approach & Delivery

Planning & Coordination
Close liaison with the client ensured works were carefully scheduled around daily operations.

Surface Preparation
All surfaces were properly prepared, repaired and primed to ensure a high-quality, long-lasting finish.

Material Selection

  • Low-VOC, healthcare-compliant paints
  • Durable, washable coatings for high-traffic areas
  • Carefully selected, calming colour schemes

Phased Programme

Works were completed in phases, allowing the facility to remain fully operational throughout.

Design Considerations

  • Soft, neutral tones in corridors to reduce visual stress
  • Warm, welcoming colours in day rooms to encourage interaction
  • Clean, bright finishes in the canteen to create a positive dining environment
  • Consistent colour zoning to support wayfinding

Results & Client Feedback

  • Improved Patient Environment: A calmer, more supportive setting for recovery
  • Minimal Disruption: Works delivered while maintaining full operational use
  • Durable Finish: Long-lasting surfaces suitable for a healthcare setting

The client was extremely pleased with the finished result, highlighting the quality of workmanship and professional delivery throughout the project.

Conclusion

This circa £50,000 project demonstrates the importance of combining technical decorating expertise with an understanding of healthcare environments.

Through careful planning and delivery, Stephen Jabs successfully transformed the Avalon Centre into a more functional, durable and therapeutic space—supporting both patient wellbeing and staff needs.