At Design Rationale, we believe wellbeing is central to creating safe, productive and inclusive workplaces. In collaboration with Fit For Work, we recently delivered a wellbeing event at Wates’ Norman Shaw North works project, focusing on the theme of financial wellbeing. The session took place in the Wellbeing Cabin II, designed as a dedicated space where employees can access support and resources. The event combined practical advice with interactive engagement, including: Financial-specific wellbeing resources to help individuals plan and manage challenges. A “Financial Stress” pulse survey to identify key areas where additional support may be needed. An interactive game and friendly competition, with snacks provided to encourage participation. A follow-up Financial Wellbeing Insights Report, offering targeted recommendations based on survey findings. By combining fun, open conversation with meaningful data, the event not only supported individuals on the day but also laid the groundwork for ongoing wellbeing initiatives. We’re proud to work with partners like Fit For Work and Wates, ensuring that wellbeing is embedded into every stage of workplace culture-helping people feel supported both at work and beyond.

Design Rationale, we are experts in bespoke architectural glass and metal solutions, and our recent project at Principal Place , London showcased exactly that. Tasked with cladding three large architectural columns in precision-finished metal, we faced the challenge of creating exceptionally tight, seamless corners to match the client’s modern design intent. To achieve this, we employed the specialist technique of V Grooving, which allows sheet metal to be folded with sharp, clean lines for a flawless appearance. Because V-Grooving requires rare expertise and advanced machinery, we partnered with John Desmond Ltd , the only UK company capable of delivering this process at the required scale. Working alongside our client, SJ Eastern Carpentry , we ensured every detail met the highest standards and showcased our precision mastery. This project reflects our core strength: delivering custom glass and metal solutions  that merge technical innovation with striking architectural aesthetics. Learn more about the V-grooving process at John Desmond’s website. https://www.johndesmond.com

This September, the Design Rationale team gathered for a spirited Table Tennis Challenge. Colleagues were divided into two groups, with players randomly matched and winners advancing through lively rounds of play. Cheers filled the air as the competition intensified, culminating in a thrilling final where Joe claimed the champion’s title with style and composure. Between matches, everyone enjoyed delicious food and refreshments, making the event as much a social celebration as a contest. More than a tournament, it was a chance to relax, share laughter, and strengthen our team spirit. Congratulations to Joe and to all who made the day a smashing success!

In 2013 we were engaged to clad the Helical Staircases at Finsbury Park Station, a key element of the TFL Wells Terrace regeneration completed in 2019. These striking stairways rise from the platform to the National Rail entrances, forming an integral part of the expanded exit routes. Serving over 33 million passengers annually, Finsbury Park is the third-busiest Underground station beyond Zone 1, presenting both scale and complexity. Design Rationale’s remit was to create elegantly curved cladding panels finished in vitreous enamel, a lasting , glass-like surface known  for its exceptional resistance to heat, chemicals and abrasion. This finish, widely employed across the London Underground network, delivers aesthetic refinement with durability. Our team devised a bespoke support system and, using state-of-the-art 3D modelling, achieved precise installation of all cladding panels, handrails,  access doors, display units and stainless-steel ceiling panels with integrated drainage. More than a decade later, the staircases remain pristine, a testament to meticulous design, superior materials and exemplary Creativity.

At Design Rationale Ltd, we believe wellness should be as fun as it is beneficial and this month’s challenge proved just that! For August, our wellness spotlight was on rowing , a fantastic full-body workout that builds strength, stamina, and team spirit. The rules were simple: You have one minute . Row as far as you can. The longest distance wins! Challenge Prize Winner ! It might sound straightforward, but when the timer starts ticking, every pull counts - and those 60 seconds feel a lot  shorter than you think. Colleagues cheered each other on, the room filled with friendly competition (and maybe a little bit of heavy breathing), and the energy was electric. Rowing isn’t just a physical challenge - it’s also a great stress-buster. With each stroke, you can almost feel the tension melt away, replaced with the satisfaction of pushing your own limits. A huge congratulations to Hugo our winner, rowing distance of 262 meters in just 1 minute -and well done to everyone who took part! Showing incredible effort, proving that wellness is not only just about competition but about connection, motivation, and having fun together.

We would like to take a moment to congratulate Louie Tigwell and Jason Brown of Design Rationale on delivering an excellent presentation to the Mace Heathrow project team. Their talk focused on the critical subject of moving and handling materials on site, highlighting the many risks it can pose if not managed correctly. With clarity and expertise, they explored practical approaches to reducing dangers, protecting workers, and ensuring safe, efficient operations. This important conversation helps raise awareness of everyday challenges in construction and infrastructure projects, while underlining our shared responsibility to keep safety at the heart of everything we do. Materials Secure During Transportation to Site Well done Louie and Jason on such a professional and impactful contribution!

At Design Rationale, Quality and Compliance secures our strength in the market. At Design Rationale, we ensure that every piece of our security metalwork and glazing is more than just functional but built to exceed expectations. Some of our products undergo intensive and certified testing, designed to maximize blast load resistance and ensure structural integrity under the most demanding conditions. We don’t cut corners; instead, we build with purpose, precision, and accountability At Design Rationale, we don’t believe in temporary fixes. Our goal is to provide long-lasting, high-standard solutions that stand the test of time-both in terms of performance and design integrity.

We’re proud to congratulate Trevor Parkhouse  on receiving a Quality Award from  Mace for his exceptional work at Heathrow Terminal 4. As a Site manager at Design Rationale , Trevor plays a key role in the successful installation of bespoke security glass and metalwork . His attention to detail and commitment to quality were instrumental in delivering a first-class result on this high-quality project. Well done, Trevor, a well-deserved recognition for your outstanding work!

Notably, the claddings At Gass Hall Exhibition Birmingham museum  were sketched by hand by Simon Rivers-Bland ,  who is renowned for his iconic work on the Art Visitor Centre at Land Rover Solihull, the Guinness Storehouse, the Heart of the Crystal Siemens exhibition, and many more. Working in close collaboration with Robin Heap, Jim Morgan, and Jason Brown, Simon brought together a wealth of experience and diverse perspectives that shaped the project’s distinctive identity. At a time when digital design tools were not yet an industry standard, his dedication to meticulous, hand-drawn detailing set a high standard for precision and design excellence. While times have changed and advanced 3D modelling and digital design technologies now shape much of our workflow, Simon has maintained his passion for sketching by hand, believing it remains one of the purest ways to explore ideas and unlock creative solutions. This blend of traditional artistry and modern technology continues to define the way we work. For over 33 years, Design Rationale has maintained an unwavering commitment to creativity and innovation. We have established ourselves as trusted specialists in security architectural glass and metalwork, delivering bespoke yet elegant solutions for railway stations, airports, and some of the UK’s most iconic public and private buildings. Discreet but Robust we have evolved and adapted, embracing cutting edge tools and digital innovations to complement the designer’s eye and the maker’s skill ensuring that every project stands the test of time.

At Design Rationale HQ we brought a spirited twist to team wellness with a competitive darts challenge. Colleagues stepped up to the oche for an afternoon of precision, laughter, and friendly rivalry. The event, filled with high scores and near misses, kept energy high and spirits even higher At the end of the day, one skilled winner walked away with a well-earned prize-but the real reward was the shared experience and camaraderie. Initiatives like this reflect our belief that team-building and wellness go hand in hand, fostering both connection and focus in the workplace.

At Design Rationale, Wellness is more than a buzzword, it’s part of our culture. In June, our team took a break from the screens and hit the sand for a spirited beach volleyball event. The day was all about movement, connection, and recharging together outside the office. We believe that supporting mental and physical wellbeing leads to stronger collaboration, creativity, and overall performance. Events like these reflect our ongoing commitment to a healthy, balanced workplace.

In May 2025, the Design Rationale team traded desks for the driver’s seat with a full day of Go-kart racing. The event brought everyone together for some friendly competition, high-speed fun, and a fresh way to recharge outside the office. Team Rady To Race! Challenge winners We continue to prioritize wellness by creating opportunities that strengthen team spirit and support a balanced, energized workplace.