The Maple Ward at The Longley Centre in Sheffield, is an acute mental health inpatient ward that has recently undergone a comprehensive refurbishment designed to create a safer, more therapeutic environment for people experiencing a wide range of mental health needs. The project forms part of a wider programme of improvements across inpatient settings within the Sheffield Health Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust, delivering purpose-built spaces that better support both service users and staff.
The refurbishment included the development of 17 en-suite bedrooms, a fully compliant accessible bedroom, calming de-escalation facilities and a state-of-the-art landscaped garden courtyard. The redesign prioritised autism-friendly design principles, sensory-led spaces and improved safety throughout, including the removal of fixed ligature anchor points across the site.
As highlighted by Sheffield Hospitals Charity, whose funding supported the project, the ward now feels calmer, safer and more dignified for those using the service. These improvements ensure the environment actively contributes to recovery and wellbeing.
Pineapple were proud to play an active role in this transformation by supplying furniture specifically designed for challenging healthcare environments. Our approach places the needs of service users and staff at the forefront, providing robust, reduced-ligature solutions that balance safety, comfort and dignity.
Lounge spaces were designed for both relaxation and resilience, featuring Snug Plus modular seating and Magna Plus 2.0 sofas and armchairs with plinth bases. These are complemented by Acumen coffee tables with CLEAN-TEC solid surfaces for enhanced hygiene, alongside Cirrus tables that add warmth to the scheme without sacrificing safety.
Sensory and quiet spaces were carefully considered, incorporating Zen chairs, Boden Donut Beanbags and the Levo reduced-ligature recliner, which offers users greater autonomy without mechanical components, to help deter misuse and injury.
Outdoors, the Ryno modular seating range and dining furniture create a flowing, robust solution within the thoughtfully designed sensory garden.
Lighting was another critical component of the scheme. Touch-operated Fynn reduced-ligature lighting was installed throughout the ward. Empowering service users to adjust lighting and heating settings to suit their individual comfort and sensory needs. Combined with a muted palette of calming greens and blues, artwork and murals, these choices help to reduce anxiety and create a softer, more restorative atmosphere.
At Maple Ward, furniture, lighting and finishes work together with clinical care to create a safer, more compassionate environment. It’s a powerful example of how thoughtful design, done collaboratively and with intent can help transform experiences, support recovery and uphold dignity at the moments it matters most.
