ADT Workplace has created a post-pandemic workplace for global real estate adviser, Knight Frank, at 103 Colmore Row in the heart of Birmingham city centre. Taking just over 4,000 sq.ft on the 18th floor of the 26-storey building, the leading independent real estate consultancy has relocated from its existing space at One Colmore Row.

The bigger space at 103 Colmore Row provides room to accommodate the organisation’s predicted growth in the city. The space also offers the very best working environment thanks to its leading ESG credentials and unbeatable location, both of which will support Knight Frank in recruiting the very best talent in the industry.

The Vision

Knight Frank wanted to provide an inclusive workplace environment which would provide its people with the workplace settings, the opportunity and inspiration to perform at their best. Recognising the need to adapt to new ways of working brought about following the pandemic, it was important that the new office offered agile work settings to allow people to move about the space and work in the best way for task at hand.

Following a competitive design and build pitch process, ADT Workplace was selected as the preferred designer and build contractor working in close partnership with developer, Sterling Ventures, to deliver the project. The project was completed in late Spring 2022 following a 12 week programme.

The transformation

The aim was to create an agile workplace which is reflective of Knight Frank’s brand and values, and provides a professional yet welcoming environment. Black and charcoal tones are prominent throughout the design, furniture and fittings providing a classic and contemporary look and feel.

The high specification contemporary design maximises the available floorplates to offer predominantly open plan, agile workspace with areas for collaboration, quiet working, flexible meeting areas and relaxation. The welcome area includes striking bespoke fret work and glass, incorporating the company’s branding, with a transparent effect to lead people into the space and access the unbeatable city views from the 18th floor. In addition, impressive feature lighting has been incorporated throughout to support the abundance of natural light owing to the floor to ceiling windows.

Acoustic panelling has been cleverly used to alleviate background noise and reduce the reverberation and echo around the open plan space. In addition, by utilising the very best in new technology and innovative M&E solutions, as well as biophilic solutions throughout, ADT Workplace has been able to create an environment which will not only support business success but also enhance the health and wellbeing of occupants.

Commenting on the project Drew Watkins, partner, project and building consultancy, Knight Frank, said: “We were delighted to partner with ADT Workplace on our new Birmingham office. Through a collaborative and flexible approach, the team has helped us create our ideal work space, which strikes a perfect balance between providing a professional environment which is also welcoming and comfortable. The agile settings mean people can now work where, when and how they choose, with maximum flexibility and comfort, to optimise their performance and do their best work.”

Ashley Hudson, partner, project and building consultancy, Knight Frank, added: “Although we’ve moved just a short distance from our previous location, we’re confident that our new workplace is a noticeable step up and will provide our people with a first-class workplace environment. We now have a dynamic workplace that will inspire and motivate our people, as well as help us attract and retain the very best talent in an increasingly competitive market.”