Jones Lang LaSalle has designed, project managed and delivered the firm’s multi-million fit-out of their Central Plaza One city office.
The entire project was project and construction managed by Jones Lang LaSalle’s project and development services, led by Eric Williamson.
The $2.4 million project was undertaken while the team of 120 Jones Lang LaSalle staff remained in occupation across levels 33 and 34. This represented an enormous challenge, according to Williamson.
“Business continues whether one’s workplace is functional or not. We had to ensure no interruptions to the team’s telephone and data systems and so we created temporary or ‘swing’ space in which business operations could continue. However, even these areas required individual, customised fittings and systems allocations,” he says.
“We have now taken the office from a 1980-1990s fit-out to a state-of-the-art business hub with leading edge communication technologies, lighting systems, presentation and video conferencing facilities, remote operated blinds and more as part of a whole new range of technologies being introduced to Central Plaza One.
“The fit-out caters for the new communication, IT, professional and lifestyle requirements of today’s executive. These requirements are very different to those of even five years ago,” says Williamson.
“The floor has been transformed from a pod-based rabbit warren to a space-based design; an open-plan which delivers privacy for those requiring it through the provision of a series of small meeting rooms, which can merge together for larger requirements. Dect phones throughout enables people to simply take their handset into offices when required and wireless connectivity provides instant and secure communications throughout,” he adds.
The impact of productivity and interpersonal relations has already been significant, according to managing director Stephen Conry.
“We were determined to create an environment which set new benchmarks for now and beyond, one where the efficiencies and aesthetics appeal to Jones Lang LaSalle staff and clients.”
Conry says while the foyer introduced a sense of arrival with brown marble and smoked glass features, the huge Sunset Lounge had become a focal point in the firm’s daily activities. The Sunset Lounge has Brisbane city views as well as a huge plasma screen TV, pool table, meeting tall tables and stool, coffee machine and chill out area.
“The process and delivery involved in this refit was approached exactly the same way as we do all others – the client brief was established; client approvals were managed through to construction documentation and procurement; contractors were selected; the project was carefully programmed (particularly relevant given 100 staff were remaining in the space during the refit), and the close out process was then managed through to final delivery," he says.
In Asia Pacific, Jones Lang LaSalle has over 600 professional project and development managers that manage and advise on capital expenditure of over US$3 billion annually, ranging from office fit-out, refurbishment and re-fit-out assignments such as this one, churn, new build projects, retail, industrial and commercial projects, through to major manufacturing and hotel projects.