West Notts College Demo Kitchen

Hatherley Commercial Services Limited

HCS is a small, family-run service company with a team of 10 technicians and a dedicated sales and installation crew. With over 20 years of partnership with Vision West Notts College, HCS was entrusted with transforming a disused classroom into a fully functional and modern catering demonstration kitchen—on short notice and within a strict 3-week summer deadline.

The project was fully designed, specified, and delivered in-house by HCS, led by Ben Hatherley, who acted as the sole designer, project manager, and lead installer. Working from the client’s broad vision and budget constraints—but with full creative freedom—Ben managed every phase: concept design, stakeholder engagement, technical drawings, equipment selection, contractor coordination, and hands-on installation.

The space required a complete strip-out and rebuild to meet food-safe standards, including new plumbing, electrical systems, bespoke ventilation, PVC wall cladding, vinyl safety flooring, and a custom stainless-steel demonstration counter with integrated LED lighting. With no existing services in place, HCS overcame logistical challenges by routing all utilities through adjacent spaces, including a pumped waste system and new ductwork via rooflight openings.

All work was delivered on time and within budget, with no external project management. Ben remained on-site throughout, ensuring seamless coordination between trusted contractors and handling key installations himself. The result is a vibrant, functional space where students can gather, observe, and learn in real time—exceeding client expectations.