Case Study: Bespoke Glass Display Cabinet for 3D-Printed Hearts at Southampton Hospital

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Showcasing Groundbreaking Medical Innovation Through Bespoke Cabinet Design

Heartbeat Charity approached us to design and manufacture a bespoke glass display cabinet for their Education Centre at Southampton University Hospital. The charity funds the creation of highly detailed 3D-printed heart models for children with congenital heart disease. These anatomical models support complex surgical planning and play a vital role in medical training across the UK.

With more than 95 models produced to date, Heartbeat required a secure, modern, museum-quality display cabinet that could present these unique hearts clearly while educating clinicians, students, and visitors.

This case study demonstrates how specialist cabinet design, precision glass engineering, and close client collaboration transformed a challenging reception space into a high-impact educational feature.

Client Requirements

The brief called for a lightweight, double-sided glass display cabinet positioned between an existing structural pillar and a wall within the Education Centre’s reception area.

Key requirements included:

  • A minimal, modern glass design that would not visually dominate the space
  • Double-sided access and viewing, due to windows on both sides
  • A dark central backdrop to enhance visibility of translucent 3D-printed models
  • Lockable glass doors for security
  • Integrated LED lighting, hardwired into the onsite electrical supply
  • Eight to ten adjustable glass shelves for models measuring approximately 9–13 cm
  • Lockable base drawers for secure storage
  • Provision for individual information cards describing each heart model

The charity had previously explored a heavier timber-based cabinet, but the surgical team requested a solution that felt lighter, cleaner, and more clinically appropriate.

Our Design Solution

Our design approach focused on delivering a professional healthcare display solution that balanced aesthetics, functionality, and durability.

Light, Transparent Construction

To maintain visual lightness, we designed a slim, white-framed glass cabinet with maximum transparency. This approach complements the clean architectural language of the Education Centre while allowing natural light to pass through both sides of the display.

High-Contrast Viewing Panel

A continuous dark central divider panel was introduced to act as a backdrop, significantly improving contrast and legibility when viewing the translucent 3D-printed heart models. This creates a museum-standard environment for studying fine anatomical detail.

Optimised Lighting and Shelf Flexibility

Energy-efficient LED lighting was integrated into the cabinet structure to provide even illumination and highlight surface detail without glare. Adjustable glass shelving gives the Centre long-term flexibility as new heart models are produced and teaching needs evolve.

Security and Storage

To protect these valuable educational assets, the cabinet incorporates:

  • Lockable glass doors on both sides
  • Secure, built-in drawers within the base for storage and rotation of models
  • Concealed wiring for a clean, professional installation

Throughout the development process, we worked closely with Heartbeat Charity and consultant surgeon Mr Nicola Viola, refining proportions, lighting levels, and internal spacing to ensure the final design met both clinical and educational requirements.

Completed Installation

The completed cabinet now forms a central feature within the Heartbeat Education Centre. It provides:

  • A clear and striking display of 3D-printed paediatric heart models
  • An accessible teaching resource for clinicians, students, and visitors
  • A strong visual representation of the charity’s life-changing work
  • A secure, long-term solution for displaying a growing collection

Feedback from staff and visitors has been overwhelmingly positive, with frequent comments on the clarity, brightness, and professional quality of the display.

Impact on Training and Education

By creating a bespoke showcase for these anatomical models, the project has helped to:

  • Strengthen clinical teaching and pre-operative planning
  • Enhance visitor engagement within the Education Centre
  • Highlight Heartbeat Charity’s contribution to paediatric cardiac care
  • Preserve valuable 3D-printed models for future study and research

The cabinet now functions as both an educational tool and a powerful storytelling feature for the charity.

Conclusion

This project illustrates how thoughtful bespoke glass display cabinet design can transform a clinical reception space into a dynamic learning environment. Through close collaboration and attention to detail, we delivered a secure, elegant, and highly functional display solution that celebrates pioneering medical technology.

If you would like to discuss a custom display cabinet, museum-grade showcase, or healthcare storage solution, our team would be happy to help.