STUDENTS from the City of Glasgow College’s built environment department have been praised after they refurbished the outdoor seating area of a local Marie Curie Hospice.
The partnership between the college and hospice was prompted by Michael Kenny, who is both the hospice’s facilities management manager and a part-time lecturer at the learning institute.
A conversation sparked by personal experiences with the hospice highlighted the need for an upgrade to its outdoor furniture, with the college’s built environment team recognising the opportunity to make a positive impact.
Guided by staff, second-year apprentice painters and decorators took the lead in the transformation. They applied their training in surface preparation, sanding, priming, and cleaning to ensure the furniture was primed for professional-grade painting and staining. Durable, weather-resistant coatings were applied, and a vibrant colour scheme was chosen to create a welcoming and tranquil atmosphere.
Key improvements included restoring worn seating by smoothing imperfections and applying protective finishes. Many pieces of furniture featured personal inscriptions from families who had supported the hospice. These were carefully re-highlighted, with gilding added where appropriate. The joinery team also repaired damaged pieces, replacing deteriorating sections to extend their lifespan while maintaining their original character.
A major challenge for the hospice had been the difficulty of finding suitable facilities to dry and maintain the furniture. To address this, the college transported the items to its City Campus, where students worked in a controlled environment to prepare and refurbish them. This collaboration ensured the furniture was restored to a high standard while relieving the hospice of logistical challenges.
Michael Kenny, facilities manager at Marie Curie Hospice, said, “We are incredibly grateful for the hard work and dedication shown by the students and staff. The refurbished outdoor spaces have brought new life to our garden, creating a peaceful and uplifting environment for our patients, families, and staff.”
The refurbished outdoor spaces now serve as a sanctuary, offering a serene environment for relaxation and reflection. The colourful furniture enhances the emotional well-being of visitors, fostering a sense of comfort and care.
Michael McEwan, painting and decorating lecturer at the college, added, “This has been an incredible opportunity for our students to make a tangible difference. It has developed their technical skills and allowed them to experience the profound satisfaction of giving back to the community.”
