Reimagine a community institution

Jonathan Alcock & Sons Funeral Directors is a family run business. It's been at the heart of the community for over 160 years. We were approached to review their existing estate and masterplan a solution that ensures these heritage buildings are fit for the future. It is a privilege to work with such a community institution. A forward looking business, rooted in family history.

The elephant in the room…

This is an ancient industry that is in constant change. A taboo topic to most. Our client’s business is one full of empathy and compassion, guiding people through times when they are most vulnerable. Professional and personal. Our task is to create a space that reflects that identity. To future proof this historic institution, and help shape it for generations to come.

Peeking behind the curtain

First off, we have to get under the skin of a business. Really understand what drives it, why it’s been successful. No stones unturned. This can be uncomfortable. But from this messy process comes clarity and direction. It helps us develop and refine a proper brief.

We trust our process and out pops a diagram. Key business activities, spaces and relationships. We now understand how the business engages with families and what they do behind the scenes, so we can provide places and spaces for everything to happen. This sets the framework for everything we do going forward. Miss this step and we’d be throwing spaghetti at the wall.