Ladbrooks Solicitors and accountants, Business Success Group, wanted to combine the two professional practices and increase the size of their offices.  They achieved this by jointly leasing premises, sharing a common reception area and meeting rooms while retaining their own individual office space.  Having a very friendly office culture, Ladbrooks’ team were in search of an office model which would allow visual contact and improve the level of communication between the team members.  The brief was to provide a warm, friendly atmosphere for both staff and clients.

Both companies wanted professional design advice to space plan their shared and individual areas.  Our design scope included space planning, preparing drawings & documentation, selecting finishes and furniture.  Contract managing the fit-out involved coordinating fit-out details with the landlord’s nominated contractor.

Principal, John Appleby, said Ladbrooks wanted their office space to reflect their flat management style; a bit out in left field not upmarket and trendy, but warm and connected.”

“Malcolm & Sumner listened to our needs and grasped the concept of our ideal office model.  Using the curve shape of the building to advantage, we were able to achieve our ideal office layout and provide a circular flow.  Everyone can see each other and feel part of the group."

“The space met most of our unusual needs.  We were able to realise the creative vision that our team had and the design allowed us to achieve this within the given constraints of the building.  It was good to be able to discuss with our team and work through the process with them.  The team love it and their input into the creation was valuable.

“Having increased our office space, we now have a sense of permanence and long term sustainability.  We are in a position to achieve our long term vision over the next 10 years.  Growing the business to its ideal size is now possible.

“We found Malcolm & Sumner always available, and very quick to respond.  Diane has a passive way of dealing with issues, working behind the scenes to ensure everything happened on time.

"We recommend spending time playing with concepts and be open to change.  Don’t let the constraints of the building compromise your ideas.  Take ownership of the project.  Even the smallest decisions and attention to detail can make the biggest impact to the overall look.

“Shifting premises was a busy time for us but not stressful. Planning occupied some of our time initially but it wasn’t a difficult process. It was nice not to have to do the project management and have someone else hold it all together. Being 90 – 95% prepared meant minimal disruption for our team.

“We are happy Malcolm & Sumner were referred to us.  They definitely helped us achieve our goals.  We created the vessel we wanted, not just an office.  The spaces are spiritually harmonious and have a good feeling about them.”

John Appleby, Principal
Ladbrooks Solicitors
P: (09) 377 2127