Meet our team
We provide impartial, unbiased advice to architects, surveyors, and other construction professionals on home adaptations, ensuring that your projects meet the highest standards of accessibility and functionality. Drawing on our extensive experience, we are pleased to recommend reputable companies with whom we have successfully collaborated and we offer project management services as required. Our Occupational Therapists operate across England and Wales.
Anava Baruch
Managing Director, Clinical Lead
BA Hons Occupational Therapy & MSc Ergonomics
Anava has more than 20 years of experience working as a housing Occupational Therapist for both the private and public sector. She specialises in the inclusive design of domestic and residential buildings, aiming to provide aesthetic solutions for people who are less able. Anava acts as an Accommodation Expert Witness (under Part 35 of the Civil Procedure Rules). Her knowledge and expertise have proven particularly useful when thinking outside of the box is required.
Her occupational therapy background enables her to fully understand the care and rehabilitation required when working with clients. This enables her to design and recommend homes which are ‘Tailor made’ to the specific requirements of the individual.
Anava is a member of Bond Solon, Royal College of Occupational Therapists and the Health & Care Professions Council. She is also accredited on the APIL expert database.
Paul Groves
Project Coordinator Building Adaptations
Paul brings with him his experience working in the Design and Build industry as both a Project Manager and a CAD designer. As well as reaching his City & Guilds in Kitchen and Bedroom design he has almost 20 years’ experience in the Aerospace industry proving to show a strong eye for detail and a great understanding of strict processes.
He works collaboratively with the overall team of case managers, solicitors, equipment suppliers and trades people, coordinating estimates, quotes, team meetings, reviewing drawings/plans and supporting the end users during the process of design and adaptations. Paul is mainly office based and has a complete overview of the projects so he can ensure that all adaptation work is completed in a timely and efficient fashion, and within budget.
Acer Morgan
Client Services Manager
Acer has a wealth of technical and communication skills from her background as a formulation scientist and ran her own consultancy business. Her experience includes liaising with clients, suppliers, managing projects and networking within the cosmetics industry to bring new products to the market in the UK and abroad.
Acer acts as the first point of contact within DfI, she liaises with new and existing clients, building relationships, referring and recommending other services as appropriate. Acer coordinates the services we provide to all of our end users and the professional teams supporting them ensuring information is available when needed. Acer manages the function of the office and supports the MD. Acer is office based so is available for clients as a daily contact.
Jana Robinson
Biophilic Interior Designer (Founder of The Emerald lounge)
Jana works closely with Anava’s team to enhance adapted spaces for her clients, delivering considered and sympathetic interior schemes connecting clients’ life values with their new surroundings. Her work is based on the principles of nature incorporating textures, patterns and colours that are fundamental to inviting nature indoors. This balanced combination stimulates senses, provides a calm atmosphere, reduces anxiety and shapes an authentic and comfortable home.
Biophilic design is a combination of natural elements that send a powerful message influencing how we feel and act indoors. It allows every client’s unique style to shine through whilst delivering highly functional spaces.
Jana’s collaborative approach focuses on individual needs and brings uniquely personalised solutions to every client.
Design For Independence is unique.
As Housing Occupational Therapists we adeptly interpret complex medical conditions into architectural designs. As Manual Handling experts we precisely assess spatial needs and equipment placement for optimal functionality.
As Therapists we prioritise privacy and dignity, ensuring that our recommendations for purchasing, designing, and adapting properties for individuals with disabilities are expertly tailored to enhance quality of life.
Design For Independence is unique.
As Housing Occupational Therapists we adeptly interpret complex medical conditions into architectural designs. As Manual Handling experts we precisely assess spatial needs and equipment placement for optimal functionality.
As Therapists we prioritise privacy and dignity, ensuring that our recommendations for purchasing, designing, and adapting properties for individuals with disabilities are expertly tailored to enhance quality of life.
Chroma House, Shire Hill,
Saffron Walden CB11 3AQ
FIND
DESIGN
ADAPT
Project Coordination
From plans to reality - seamless delivery for complex adaptations
Designing and adapting a property for someone with complex needs involves more than just a good idea - it requires precise coordination across builders, architects, suppliers, and clinicians.
That’s where we come in...
At Design for Independence Ltd, we provide end-to-end project coordination to ensure that every adaptation is delivered safely, accurately, and on time and within budget. We act as your central point of contact, managing communication and problem-solving across the whole team.
Our Housing Occupational Therapists (OTs) are experts in inclusive home design and accessibility. We assess how a person’s living environment supports - or limits - their ability to live independently and comfortably.
Our Housing OTs create bespoke home designs tailored to each individual's unique needs and abilities. They recommend thoughtful layouts, fixtures, and fittings that enhance safety, comfort, and functionality - empowering individuals to navigate and enjoy their homes with confidence and ease.
We primarily support individuals who have experienced life-changing injuries or live with complex, chronic, or debilitating medical conditions. Working collaboratively with multidisciplinary healthcare teams and legal professionals, we help deliver the best possible outcomes for our clients.
FIND
DESIGN
ADAPT
What we do:
Led by Housing Occupational Therapist who translate clinical recommendations into workable plans.
Liaise with architects, contractors, and suppliers on your behalf.
Oversee the specification and installation of specialist equipment.
Resolve site challenges quickly while maintaining the original intent.
Ensure compliance with accessibility standards and safety protocols.
Why it matters
Poor coordination leads to delays, miscommunication, and costly errors. Our experienced team bridges the gap between design and delivery - protecting your client's wellbeing and your professional credibility.
We know the stakes are high, especially in litigation or time-sensitive rehab cases. That’s why we take responsibility for getting it right - down to the last detail.