For non-profit organisations, every pound spent on premises is a pound that is not going to the cause. We understand this completely. At Linvex, we work closely with charities, housing associations, and social enterprises to deliver functional, welcoming workspaces that maximise resources and demonstrate responsible stewardship.
Understanding the Charity Sector
Charities face unique challenges when it comes to their office environments:
- Budget constraints — funding is often ring-fenced and every expenditure must be justified to trustees, donors, and regulators
- Accountability — the physical workspace must reflect the organisation’s values, appearing professional without being extravagant
- Diverse workforces — many charities rely on a mix of salaried staff, part-time workers, and volunteers, each with different needs
- Public-facing roles — many charities operate drop-in centres, advice services, or community spaces alongside their back-office functions
- Accessibility — serving all members of the community means ensuring full accessibility for people with disabilities
How We Help
Value Engineering
We apply value engineering principles to every project, identifying where savings can be achieved without compromising functionality or appearance. This might include:
- Specifying durable but cost-effective materials
- Reusing existing furniture and fittings where practical
- Phasing the works to spread costs across financial years
- Selecting multi-functional spaces that serve several purposes
Accessible Design
Charities serve the entire community, and their premises must reflect this. We ensure full compliance with the Equality Act 2010 and Document M of the Building Regulations, including:
- Level access — ramps, automatic doors, and lift access where required
- Accessible washrooms — compliant layouts with grab rails, emergency alarms, and appropriate fixtures
- Hearing loops — induction loop systems in reception and meeting areas
- Wayfinding — clear, high-contrast signage including tactile and Braille elements where appropriate
- Adjustable furniture — height-adjustable desks and workstations to accommodate all users
Volunteer-Friendly Spaces
Volunteers are the lifeblood of many charities. We design spaces that make volunteers feel welcome and supported:
- Hot-desking zones — flexible workstations for people who attend on different days
- Training rooms — well-equipped spaces for induction and skills development
- Locker storage — secure personal storage for staff and volunteers who do not have a permanent desk
- Social areas — breakout spaces that build a sense of community and belonging
Multi-Use and Community Spaces
Many charities need rooms that serve multiple functions — a meeting room during the day might double as a training space in the evening, or a reception area might host community events at weekends. We design flexible spaces with:
- Moveable partition walls
- Stackable and foldable furniture
- Adaptable lighting and AV
- Easy-clean, durable finishes
Office Fit-Out
Beyond public-facing areas, charity back-office teams need efficient, comfortable workspaces too. We provide:
- Open-plan and cellular office layouts
- Ergonomic desking and seating
- Adequate storage and filing
- Meeting rooms for trustee meetings, case reviews, and team discussions
- Kitchen and welfare facilities
Our Approach
- Budget Planning — we establish a realistic budget framework and identify areas where savings can be maximised
- Design — functional, dignified spaces that reflect your mission and values
- Procurement — leveraging our trade relationships to secure the best prices
- Build — in-house delivery of all trades, minimising subcontractor mark-ups
- Handover — a complete, ready-to-use workspace delivered on time and on budget
Why Choose Linvex
We have worked with numerous charities and non-profit organisations, and we understand the particular pressures they face. Our clients value our honest approach to budgeting, our ability to deliver high-quality results at competitive costs, and our commitment to creating spaces that support their mission. With over 40 years of experience, we bring the same level of professionalism and craftsmanship to a charity refurbishment as we do to a corporate headquarters.