McLarens Young (Auckland) Ltd 

McLarens Young International a global claims service provider had been in the same building for 10 years. The building leaked and the landlord wasn't interested in paying for an upgrade. The premises were old and tired, the space was badly utilised. McLarens Young's office was split between two floors and was creating unacceptable divisions within the company. When the lease came up for review, the decision was made to relocate their Auckland office to Pier 21.

We were appointed to design, space plan the offices and prepare consent drawings. As McLarens Young's design consultants, we assisted them through the entire design and fit-out process. We were responsible to deliver a quality fit-out within a tight time frame and budget.

Director, Chris Green, said cost was an issue. We're now in a quality building with stunning harbour views. We've negotiated the same ground rent as we were previously paying but fitting in 20% less space.' 'The process was better than we expected. It was much easier than previous shifts I've been involved with. Malcolm & Sumner were well organised. The subcontractors they recommended were excellent and kept to the program.'

'We've been able to build new teams and re-organise our Company Structure. Our Valuers now have their support team right near them.

'The move had beneficial advantages for staff moral. They are all very happy with the outcome.

'Before we shifted, there was a perception that open plan wouldn't work but it does. It works fine. It's much quieter than anybody anticipated even thought we have low screens to take advantage of the view.

'One of the biggest challenges was to get staff to throw things out. Even though we recycled some of our existing furniture, our designer helped us maintain uniformity throughout the office by being selective with what we re-used.

'Our visitors are blown away with what we've got. The view is spectacular. Our location is now close to some of our main clients in the marine industry.

'Communication is important. From an office management point of view, having someone reliable to sort out all the details is so important. Don't try and do it yourself. There are so many decisions to make day to day '" things that you don't even think about.'

- Capt. Chris Green, Director P: 0274 904 766 McLarens Young International E: chris.green@mclarensyoung.com

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