
Watson & Hillhouse Office Refurbishment
Source One was commissioned by Watson & Hillhouse in Ipswich to rejuvenate their first-floor office space, including a client-facing boardroom.

The existing space, though functional, was in need of a modern update. The office, which featured outdated finishes such as magnolia walls, artex ceilings, and basic CAT 2 lighting, required a complete transformation. Our primary goal was to deliver a contemporary, client-ready workspace that reflected the professional standards of Watson & Hillhouse. Find full details below.
“Our offices really do look brilliant! We are so happy with the finish and we are excited to invite clients and suppliers into the boardroom.“
Joe Manning, Operations Manager @ Watson & Hillhouse
Key Features of the Fit-out:
Flooring Replacement:
- Removal of the existing carpet and installation of new carpet tiles throughout.
- New safety flooring added to the WC and newly installed kitchenette area.
Suspended Ceiling:
- Fitting of a modern suspended ceiling across the first floor to enhance the office’s aesthetic and acoustic performance.
Lighting Upgrades:
- Installation of new energy-efficient LED panel lighting, providing brighter and more consistent lighting throughout the space.
- Emergency lighting installed as per regulatory requirements.
Interior Decoration:
- Full redecoration of the entire first floor, including wallpaper removal and crack repairs using EML mesh and resin techniques.
- The refreshed space was painted to give it a sleek and modern finish. (Chloe and Ellie from Source One even joined in on the wallpaper stripping!)
Electrical Installations:
- Installation of new power points, chased into the walls for a neat finish.
- Dado rails were fitted where necessary, seamlessly integrated into the walls.
Door Replacement:
- New solid oak doors were installed throughout the first floor, with associated door closers added as required for safety and convenience.
Kitchenette Installation:
- A brand-new kitchenette was fitted, complete with all necessary plumbing and modern fittings.
Air Conditioning and Heating:
- Alterations were made to the existing air conditioning system for optimal performance.
- New radiators were installed in the boardroom to ensure a comfortable environment for meetings.
Staircase Modernization:
- The timber staircase was re-decorated, giving it a fresh and modernized look.
Distribution Board Upgrade:
- The existing electrical distribution board was replaced to ensure compliance with current regulations, improving safety and functionality.
Boardroom Enhancements:
- A new stud wall was installed, allowing for a TV to be recessed into the boardroom wall for a sleek finish.
- The boardroom received feature panelling, fitted with striking LED strip lighting.
- New boardroom furniture was introduced, including a concrete-effect table, faux leather chairs, and a flush-fitted power module, creating a modern yet professional atmosphere.
Challenges Faced:
The most significant challenge of the project was addressing the extensive cracking found in the internal brickwork at the corners of the building. Although meshing repairs had been planned, once the wallpaper was stripped, the full extent of the damage became clear. We quickly upgraded the repairs by using EML mesh and resin and re-fixed a block that had shifted due to building movement over time.
Take a look at some images of what it looked like before we began and the challenges we faced…
Project Highlight:
The standout element of the refurbishment has to be the transformed boardroom. The black feature panelling, complemented by the concrete accents on the boardroom table and storage tops, brings a contemporary edge to the space. The addition of feature LED strip lighting adds a dynamic element, providing a stylish ambiance that can change the atmosphere depending on the time of day.
“We have received some lovely comments from visitors and staff. Thanks again to all at Source One!“
Joe Manning, Operations Manager @ Watson & Hillhouse
Full Client Testimonial:
“Our offices really do look brilliant! We are so happy with the finish and we are excited to invite clients and suppliers into the boardroom. It is so different upstairs now, and we have received some lovely comments from visitors and staff. Thanks again to all at Source One!”
– Joe Manning, Operations Manager @ Watson & Hillhouse
Our client:
Watson & Hillhouse have specialised in the provision of pile driving equipment since 1972, building a worldwide reputation for service and technical expertise that, together with huge resources, places us at the forefront of the industry. Find out more.
A partner & team you can trust
As a family business, Source One have been working with businesses across the UK on furniture fit-out and refurbishment projects of all sizes since 2002.
We work with a wide range of businesses including offices, commercial, retail, education (schools & colleges), healthcare (surgeries etc).

Find out more about Source One by downloading our brochure or our case studies
We would love to discuss your interiors project, big or small, so please call us on 08456 031585 or use our contact form and we will call you.






























































