Collaboration, connectivity and adaptability with Geyer and Valmont

Published by
Saskia Neacsu
October 4, 2024

At the heart of this workplace design for Richard Crookes Constructions' (RCC) is a visual and functional anchor that houses collaborative and utility areas, ensuring adaptability for future demands.

RCC has ushered in a new chapter with the debut of its Sydney headquarters, an erudite workplace designed to promote inclusivity and reflect the evolving nature of contemporary work. Spearheaded by workplace design firm Geyer and delivered by their sister company Valmont, the space responds to neurodiverse needs while celebrating individual working styles.

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With an emphasis on inclusive design, Geyer has designed an environment that allows for flexibility, adaptability and collaboration in all its forms. The headquarters spans two floors and encourages a flow of communication and interaction through spatial arrangements. Jamie Crookes, Managing Director at RCC, highlights the intentionality: “The Geyer design responds to neurodiversity and, through productive collaboration, we’ve embedded greater equity into the physical space through inclusive design. The new headquarters provides the flexibility for staff to perform different functions in varied group sizes and at different focus levels.”

At the heart of this space is a pavilion-like central zone, which acts as a visual and functional anchor, housing key collaborative and utility areas. Its modular nature ensures the office remains adaptable and capable of evolving with the future demands without substantial reconfigurations. Geyer’s Global Design Director, Adam Mundy, elaborates: “We listened to the unique needs of the Richard Crookes Constructions business to strategically create an energetic and effective workspace that embraces various styles of formal and informal collaboration.”

The design accentuates transparency and openness, with wide corridors and the extensive use of glass breaking down physical and perceived barriers. This openness fosters a sense of community, drawing employees into spontaneous interactions and making collaboration a more natural part of the workday. The integration of interconnecting stairs further improves this sense of connectivity, encouraging movement and interaction between floors.

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The success of the project is evident in its form and its function. Since moving into the new headquarters, RCC has seen a 20 per cent rise in desk occupancy, reflecting the comfort and allure of the space. Peta Wilson, Head of Business Improvement at RCC, notes that “Geyer demonstrated a consistent ability to anticipate future trends, incorporating innovative and sustainable solutions into our project while working within budget and programme.” This increase in attendance is a testament to the design choices made, from the versatile work zones to the flexible central hub.

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As RCC forays on its next phase of growth, the headquarters serves as more than just a workplace; it is a strategic tool for maximising community and connectivity, embodying the company’s ethos while preparing it for the future. “This project is a strategic move, setting the stage for our next phase of growth,” explains Jamie Crookes, reflecting on the lasting impact of their collaboration with Geyer and Valmont.

Geyer
geyer.design

Valmont
valmont.com.au

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