A recent discussion between prominent business partners has revealed a move within legal firms to end the tendency for lawyers to work in isolation. One of the contributors to the talks, Peter Dunne, of Herbert Smith Freehills said:
“We are in the business of people, that’s it, full stop, and for a long time we all worked in premises that had no regard for that.”
Mr Dunne believes the move to the ANZ Tower on Castlereagh Street is an opportunity to initiate a change within his company. Although the firm still measures success in terms of financial outcomes, staff welfare has become a significant feature of the firm’s ethos. More and more, legal firms are beginning to realise the work environment is important for getting the most out of the people you work with. A new office fitout and design is often the catalyst for becoming a successful organisation in what is traditionally a very competitive environment.
The discussion, held at Corrs Chambers Westgarth Sydney office, investigated the contribution of office design by companies of the stature of EBN Office Fitouts, and the ability to increase both company productivity and staff happiness. The panel members conceded that long working hours are an obstacle in achieving office harmony, often impeding the best intentioned efforts of senior management to create a friendly working environment.
Recently, Lawyers Weekly asked if office design matters in an environment of 12 hour working days, and the answer was a resounding “yes”.
Research shows, for example, that introducing more light into the work environment is good for both physical and mental health, especially when the light is natural and environmentally sustainable. Recently, legal firm Clutz moved into a new premises in Bligh Street, Sydney, opting for new office design featuring an innovative and environmentally-friendly approach. Julie Levis, Clutz partner in charge of the move, is a believer in the benefits of progressive office design, as exemplified by EBN Office Fitouts.
The improvement in attitude brought about by a change in office style is palpable, with many legal firms expressing a re-energised connection with colleagues. Mr Dunne stated that at the old office, years could pass without even crossing paths with colleagues on the same floor. New office designs often encourage lawyers from various practice groups to mingle by use of intelligently placed communal areas, lifts, and subtle office arrangements.
New office design and fitouts encourage productivity alongside collaboration, by making certain that competing cultures within the office can be harmonised. Often it is as simple as introducing an interconnecting staircase or accessible management offices that make all employees feel part of the same team. The panel members all agreed that the reduction of a firm’s carbon footprint was another plus, providing a sense of moral responsibility and achievement. It’s not unusual these days for a client to enquire about the environmental performance, sustainability, and carbon footprint of large companies.
Community expectations are also driven by a desire to see buildings designed with the environment in mind. People want to see a positive spin-off from even the most lavish office fitout. Clients are no longer easily impressed by an ostentatious top level layout with marble floors. They want to discover the company is smart and professional, yet willing to maximise benefits by a careful spend.