A creative approach to problem-solving

Corby-based Creative Ironmongery specialises in designing and creating ‘problem-solving products that save money and deliver exceptional performance, even in the most challenging environments’. The company claims to be ‘revolutionising standards in architectural ironmongery’, and, owner, Alan Rees, explains, prides itself on ‘addressing challenges’ – from customising an existing product for a particular application, to developing a bespoke component that other companies might ‘walk away from’. HEJ’s editor, Jonathan Baillie, met up with him to find out more.

With today’s NHS under considerable financial pressure, cost constraints – and the resulting ‘value engineering’ – may at times result in the selection of cheaper, more ‘functional’ products for healthcare settings, in preference to more meticulously engineered components that, although costing more initially, could soon ‘pay for themselves’ via a host of different benefits to patients, staff, and the care environment. In mental healthcare settings, a really well-designed ‘bespoke’ product – anything from a bedroom door to a furniture item – could also significantly reduce risk of harm, and even save lives. Equally, a stronger, more robust design – of anything from a window clutch to a soap dispenser – will enable the item to better withstand abuse and attack, and thus last longer, while simultaneously saving time on maintenance.

Cheapest by no means best