CCD-Designs-for-www.thepanicroomcompany.com-2After a chance meeting at the annual ADS Security & Policing dinner, the Panic Room Company has secured a working collaboration with CCD, a specialist London-based design consultancy that puts the science of ergonomics and human factors into the heart of complex buildings – the Panic Room being the perfect complex candidate.

Steve Brook, Business Development Director for the Panic Room Company, comments, “Whilst the Panic Room is seen as a temporary refuge and time spent within is likely to be minimal due to the hi-tech connectivity to the ‘outside’ world and rescue services, it is nonetheless important that occupants feel comfortable.  CCD has made it its business to assess how humans interact psychologically in confined spaces without natural light and, for us, their expertise is invaluable.  Together we are now creating ergonomic and aesthetic concept Panic Room interiors which help minimize stress whilst remaining functional.  It’s a very intricate and interesting process.”

CCD has designed specialised working environments for over 30 years including those for the emergency services, the security industry and the military sector.  For example, in the design and layout of command vehicles, CCD has faced the twin challenges of confined spaces and large quantities of equipment.  The systematic approach used here can be adapted and applied to the Panic Room.

John Wood, Executive Chairman for CCD explains, “Our design philosophy is very much human-centric and we believe that any built environment has to serve the people it was intended for.  With the Panic Room, the occupants will be under stress as they imagine the threat on the other side of the steel and it is our forte to minimise this negative impact.  Similarly, by applying human modelling techniques, we can ensure that every cubic centimetre within the Panic Room is optimally used – from storage to bunk beds, kitchenettes to washbasins.  By refining the interior of these safe rooms, we’re adding real value to the product.”

CCD works as a multidisciplinary team using experts in psychology, ergonomics, interior design, nutrition, lighting, acoustics and CAD modelling.  With this team approach, specialist lighting can combine with careful use of interior finishes and colours to mitigate feelings of claustrophobia in a windowless environment occupied by susceptible individuals.  And, fortunate for the Panic Room Company, with a track record of over 375 successful command centre commissions undertaken in the UK and overseas, CCD has the world leading team in this area.