Gemma Foord and Stephanie Cowles Following a year of unforeseen transformations, business leaders have undoubtedly had to adapt to manage a continuing cultural shift within the workplace. Organisations, across sectors, are now embracing new ways of working whilst senior leaders within those firms have had to adjust swiftly to deal with a significant change in […]
The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has caused a great deal of disruption and uncertainty in the world of commercial real estate, just as it has every aspect of work and life in general. However, the UK Government’s roadmap to ease lockdown restrictions, coupled with the pace of the ongoing vaccination rollout, and the recently announced UK […]
Office tenants endured a rollercoaster 2020, from lockdown to reopening, only to go into a consecutive national lockdown. Many have questioned whether London and other major cities will be less popular places to work in a post-COVID context. Therefore, it comes as no surprise that businesses committing to new office space, whether by leasehold or […]
Amid the ongoing challenges that 2020 brought with it, and as the new year begins, it’s about time we look forward to the year ahead. Though uncertainty continues, and we are currently sat squarely in our third, and least exciting lockdown of the lot, developing a future strategy for the safe return to the office, […]
2020: When predictions became reality… Co-Authored by Chris Lewis & Martin Laws Even putting much of the hyperbole to one side, 2020 is rightly viewed by many commentators as having seen a decade or more’s acceleration in the debate around the “future of work” and the consequences for the workplace, and specifically the office. Looking […]
Adoption of workplace tech to bolster technology firm performance If COVID-19 had struck ten years ago, would businesses have been able to adapt as quickly and operate remotely on such a scale as they did without the virtual tools at their disposal today? Even just five years ago, many businesses would have struggled due to […]
In 2020, COVID-19 took the world by surprise, including the unprecedented length and severity of the pandemic. The toll on the economy and the workforce is clear for all to see. Though vaccines are being rolled out across the country, with the emergence of a new strain of the virus and the resultant government measures, […]
2020 has left a mark on all of us and will be remembered as a year to ultimately forget. The COVID-19 pandemic has changed all our lives – including how and where we work. Whilst most of us may have felt like we were ‘on pause’ for much of the year, the workplace, workforce and […]
2020 and the ongoing pandemic has blurred the line between our personal and professional lives and brought about a series of changes that would have been unimaginable a year ago. As a result, we all have had to adapt to new routines. Companies up and down the country would have been expecting, if not hoping, […]
In the pre-COVID era, having a link to the capital in the form of a London office was often said to be one of the best investments that an ambitious business could make. There has often been a level of prestige attached to having an office in the UK’s capital, coupled with the importance of […]
What makes a positive organisational culture? It is the overall intrinsic atmosphere and attitude created through the synergy of great people, a positive working environment, and meaningful values. It has a direct impact on a company’s performance and employee wellbeing, particularly in light of the current market and ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. By giving businesses and their […]
The next generation of the office A year ago, Devono Cresa contemplated what its real estate predictions for 2020 should be. Never could we have predicted the year that would transpire and the changes this would mean for both our private and working lives. A rise in transmission rates and new government enforced November lockdown […]
The ongoing pandemic has hit almost every sector and industry. The vast majority of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) have naturally faced significant challenges. For businesses of all sizes, rent and property costs are the second–highest cost centre after the workforce. As a result, especially for SMEs, making the right workplace decision, and getting the right deal for the business is critical. While SMEs can review our guide on different types […]
Mental health and wellbeing, particularly in light of COVID-19, should be central to the awareness of all businesses, and particularly senior management. However, many businesses are struggling to implement impactful mental health and wellbeing strategies. According to the Centre for Mental Health, almost a fifth of England’s population will need mental health support as a result of COVID-19. Organisations must adapt to the coronavirus pandemic and stay informed […]
As a commercial real estate consultancy, DeVono Cresa advises businesses on their workplace solutions – this covers a wide variety of spaces and types of leases and licences. Whilst we understand our industry’s working jargon, we appreciate that many of these terminologies may not be clear to everyone. Accordingly, in order to help you better […]
The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in the largest global work-from-home experiment in modern history, with the benefits of flexible working increasingly being recognised globally. However, despite widespread speculation, the end of the office is not in sight. As another month of social distancing continues, the lack of a separate workspace coupled with the fatigue of […]
The recent lockdown has resulted in a mass shift to remote working with the homes of employees replacing the physical office. However, pre-COVID-19 fixed costs to maintain office spaces remain and continue to impact balance sheets at a time when organisations are assessing their economic forecasts for the year. With lockdown measures easing across the […]
The United Kingdom (UK) finds itself in unchartered territory – both socially and economically. Social distancing and economic support measures taken by governments globally to stem the spread of COVID-19 are unparalleled. The legacy impact of the crisis will leave an indelible mark on us all. As we await confirmation from the government of a […]
In the not so distant past, the 2008 financial crash rocked the global economy and sent shockwaves throughout the flexible working sector. In the UK, there were casualties and a number of serviced office providers were unable to survive the impact. Today, we face-off against COVID-19. A virus indiscriminate in its reach that brings enormous […]
In the words of the former US President, Franklin D. Roosevelt: “The only thing we have to fear is fear itself.” Yes, the outbreak of COVID-19 is increasingly worrisome. As cases continue to grow, both the health of our loved ones is materially impacted as are our everyday lives. Though this may be a temporary […]
The UK Government announced measures this week to support large and small businesses as they continue to face emerging challenges in the wake of the COVID-19 outbreak. The Chancellor, Rishi Sunak announced a £350 billion support package (£330 bn in loan guarantees & £20 bn in grants & other handouts) akin to the sum paid […]
Across every continent, a wave of uncertainty and concern is causing humanity to quietly consider its vulnerability. The impact of COVID-19 (Coronavirus) is unprecedented in modern times and certainly beyond the memory of most people of working age. It’s not unreasonable therefore that the first thought of individuals is that of self-preservation – or at […]
The UK budget this week will be the first delivered since 2018, the first of a Boris Johnson government, and the first for new Chancellor Rishi Sunak. Expectations have been high, especially from the business community. The Conservatives, who style themselves as the party of business, promoted an extensive wish list at the ballot box […]
Since 1975, March 8th has seen an annual celebration of International Women’s Day in conjunction with the United Nations movement. Members of DeVono Cresa’s senior leadership team, Gemma Foord, Director, Flexible Leasing & Consulting and Stephanie Cowles, Director, Client Services offer their insights from over 30 years’ collective experience inside the commercial property sector. According […]
2019 has been quite the year for the DeVono Cresa Group and our clients…
Business uncertainty has been high since the referendum vote in 2016 with clarity on trade, travel, finance, or even security, opaque at best. The UK has braced itself for leaving the EU without a deal on no less than three occasions. Nevertheless, businesses in the UK have been unable to sit idly by until the […]
What’s next for the office market? What do occupiers want? What effect would an economic slowdown have on development? Heads of the European offices of real estate advisory firm Cresa talked about business opportunities and risks, and the global political uncertainty at their annual conference in Warsaw. A slowdown, but no slump Europe […]
The year 2012 was one of optimism and celebration in the UK. It was the year of the London Olympics and Paralympics and the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee. England’s football team made it to the quarter-finals of Euro 2012 and Andy Murray became the first British man to reach a Wimbledon final for 74 years. […]
Most companies are now opting for open-plan offices – whilst this is great for keeping the whole office as one, there are now more distractions than ever before. To have a private conversation or to get a bit of quiet time, solutions such as phone booths and curved seating options are usually the go-to choice… […]
If you work a 9-5 office based job, this means you are sitting sedentary for 8 hours a day, which can not only affect your physical health but your mental health too. Long term it can result in severe health problems including high blood pressure and even heart disease. With the ‘On your feet Britain’ […]
Serviced and co-working offices in London just get better all the time – in every sense. You want an iconic address? Chances are that the building you have your eye on features a healthy chunk of serviced space. How about the type of environment that will put a spring in the step of your workforce […]
Many businesses are now choosing to use serviced offices because of their cost efficiency, flexibility and practicality. With over 100 years of combined experience of working within the London commercial office sector, our experts will help you find a serviced or co-working solution that fulfils the exact needs of your business. Serviced office space can […]
“Let’s chat over coffee” – one of the most common pre-cursors to any get together. Coffee brings people together and as the days become colder and shorter – that comforting ‘cuppa’ is a must to get the day started. Stereotypes suggest that Brits favour a builder’s brew over any other beverage but new figures […]
Have your team worked hard this year? As things quieten down, here’s our top 5 last minute ideas of ways to treat them before Christmas: Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas in London without the annual trip to Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland. This year they have even more fantastic attractions to fuel the festive fun! There are […]
Advances in technology, a greater diversity of workers, a shift in working practices and the creation of new types of jobs – the workplace is going through unexpected change. Whilst Brexit has dominated TV airtime and copious column inches with talk of deals and no-deals, trade wars, political infighting and much to-ing and fro-ing, business […]
The spookiest time of year is just around the corner and if you don’t yet have plans to spoil your team, friends or family, our carefully curated list of things to do in London will help. From Ghost Walks to spine-chilling horror films (as recommended by our team), activities for your little vampires to haunted pubs, […]
The way people work is constantly evolving. What began as a strict, 9-to-5 occupation where workers commute to and from an office has transformed into a job market where remote work and flexible schedules have entered the realm of possibility. Flexible working arrangements have become increasingly important for today’s modern workforce. Today, 63% of […]
Mental Health in the Workplace With the awareness of mental health becoming greater, more and more employers are reviewing their activities in this area although many employers are still struggling to implement effective mental health and well-being strategies. According to the charity ‘Mind’ right now 1 in 6 workers are dealing with a mental health […]
As we find ourselves in what could be the hottest UK Summer on record, everyone wants to be outside! So, why not add ‘outside space’ to the list of ‘must have’s’ for your flexible office space search?! Take your team meetings, coffee breaks, after work drinks … and more, outside. Learn more about London offices […]
Serviced and co-working offices in London just get better all the time – in every sense. You want an iconic address? Chances are that the building you have your eye on features a healthy chunk of serviced space. How about the type of environment that will put a spring in the step of your workforce […]
As corporates grapple with IT protection, Cybersecurity firms are moving in. Historically, Cybersecurity businesses have been located in and around tech innovation centres such as Cambridge and Oxford, however, today central London locations are attracting more Cybersecurity firms. The opening of the National Cyber Security Centre (GCHQ) at Nova South in 2017 was a watershed […]
Secrets Of Success in 8 Words, 3 Minutes Why do people succeed? Is it because they’re smart, wealthy, well connected, or are they just lucky? Analyst Richard St. John condenses years of interviews into an unmissable 3-minute presentation on the real secrets of success broken down into 8 simple concepts. How To Identify A Business […]
In recognition of the challenges startups and small businesses face in securing premises and negotiating leases and agreements, Nwes, one of the largest not-for-profit enterprise agencies in the UK and the London Growth Hub delivered by the LEAP in association with the Mayor of London launched a series of workshops, masterclasses and panel discussions to give […]
Today’s work place is littered with distractions, from impromptu chatter, calls, emails to last minute meetings; it can be hard to get the creative juices flowing. Productivity and creativity need to be fed and the best way to do this is to ensure an inspiring environment. London is considered one of the top 5 cities […]
Commercial agents from across central London joined DeVono Cresa for the launch of the 3rd floor at Seven Dials Warehouse on behalf of Red Bull. The attendees toured the 10,453 sq.ft office space, which featured visual projections from Dthree – DeVono Cresa’s design and build team. To get the morning off to […]
The simple answer is, you don’t. Serviced office space can be a viable requirement for any size of company for different reasons. Here, we explore the different ways in which larger corporations use the benefits of a serviced office to meet their business needs. You want to move into your space quickly Once you […]
Bradley Hill, founder and CEO of The Simple Health Kitchen, talks to us about the drivers behind the concept and explains how his approach to the search process helped secure the best sites for the business. Bradley Hill has spent most of his life immersed in the health and fitness industry. By the age of […]
Daniel Hegarty, Founder and CEO of online mortgage broker Habito, tells us what it takes to be successful in fintech and how he got there. 1. How was the Habito concept born? After I left my role at Wonga as Head of Product in 2013, I knew I wanted to start my own business, I just […]
Belinda Solomon, a partner at Brecher LLP, shares her top tips for a successful commercial real estate transaction. I have learned a lot from my 25 years plus working as a lawyer. The majority of my clients are occupiers of either offices or retail units and their knowledge of property varies wildly. I have several US occupier […]
With a third of all UK businesses situated in London, there is no doubt that it’s a desirable location for companies both nationally and internationally when it comes to finding a home for a business. However, with the continuously evolving landscape, it can be hard to pinpoint the best location for you. For example, the […]
Blackstone is the largest real estate private equity firm in the world. its portfolio of investments in London includes some of the capital’s most iconic office buildings and office campuses. Being an occupier-only consultancy firm, DeVono Cresa never represents landlords. However, to present a holistic view on the market we will interview a number of […]
London Remains Strong Chris Lewis, Head of Office Agency and Consultancy at DeVono Cresa, believes that London is and will still be a compelling place to locate and do business. Pundits and analysts might have expected a commentary on the London office market in Q4 2017 to be full of stories of market decline, dearth […]
With more competition than ever before in the flexible workspace market, providers in central London are turning to themed design to make their offering stand out from the crowd. This month we have handpicked a selection of the most fabulous, quirky business centres with themed and original design on the market. So why not differentiate […]
It’s no secret that London has one of the best skylines in the world so we have decided to put together the serviced offices we feel offer the best experience of it. Rooftop terraces are great for businesses all year round, whether it’s used for after work drinks in the summer or just to collect […]
As the Summer draws to a close and the task of finding your next office space is back on the agenda, why not let our team take away the headache of the search? With our wealth of experience and market knowledge we’ll find you a space in no time. KING WILLIAM STREET | EC4N […]
From flexibility to budget planning, there are so many reasons to choose serviced offices for your business. However there are a few misconceptions around the serviced office solution. Here we dispel some of the most commonly heard myths … “Serviced offices are more expensive” The monthly spend for a serviced office can on the face of it, […]
This summer there is so much on offer from the flexible office market. Here’s our pick of London’s best for August 2017 – with features ranging from amazing communal areas to dazzle your workforce to the highest quality private IT networks, and facilities that cater for an active workforce. FENCHURCH STREET, EC3Prices from £600 per desk […]
Today there is so much more on offer from flexible workspaces than just exposed brickwork. In 2016 we highlighted three of our top themed offices in the capital – here we have added more exciting spaces to dazzle your clients and set you apart from the competition. Themed serviced offices stick in the mind for all […]
With the serviced office industry growing fast, it’s becoming the preferred solution for many businesses looking for flexibility, practicality and cost efficiency. Finding prime office space can be a problem for London based businesses, particularly if budgets are tight. Serviced office space ticks all of the boxes and allows businesses of any size to get […]
What does your office say about you? Are you totally holistic in your outlook – or perhaps you’d like to take your clients on a trip to Wonderland? There’s nothing identikit about the capital’s best serviced offices. These are spaces that are built to impress – and they all manage to achieve this in a […]
Reputation is everything, and when it comes to grandeur, it’s hard to think of anywhere that beats Mayfair in the prestige stakes. Its stately streets and squares are home to embassies, world famous hotels, some of the most iconic entertainment spots in town and more than its fair share of the global rich. Amid all […]
There’s much more to Covent Garden than tourists, mime artists and the opera. This is a thriving commercial and creative hub, encapsulating the best of the west and offering a honeypot location for businesses of all types. If it’s time to relocate, here’s why a WC2 postcode is worth serious consideration… 1. YOUR’E IN GOOD […]
One of the best parts of our job here at DeVono Cresa involves helping fledgling creatives find their perfect spot in the capital. But what makes the idea workplace both from the perspective of the business and your team members? Here are some considerations to take on board as you start your search… SURROUND YOURSELF WITH […]
What do General Electric, KPMG and The Guardian all have in common? The answer is that all three have tapped into the benefits that co-working spaces can bring to a big business. They’re not alone. The right co-working space can provide precisely the right environment to gain fresh perspectives, to connect, and for employees to […]
We love this futuristic design of the Bahnhof AB office. Source: goo.gl/Lp2xYO
Take-up of flexible working spaces is booming. So does this mean that the traditional office is set to become a thing of the past? We take a look at the evidence… Committing to a long lease or purchase arrangement, putting your corporate stamp on the premises and generally laying down roots: all of these are […]
For a business looking to get the most out of office floorspace, an element of sharing can make perfect sense. After all, why pay to accommodate workstations that are empty for much of the time? But employees can sometimes be less enthusiastic, and the culture of possession (“This is my seat and my desk”) can […]
We are delighted to share the fantastic story which has featured in The Times and Property Week as the cover story. The feature celebrates the news that the iconic building has been given a new lease of life – as it becomes 66 residential units. Also highlighted within both articles is the crucial role that […]
Mobile connectivity and easy remote access mean that being at work no longer has to involve being tied to the desk. Meanwhile, a global marketplace is helping to drive new ways of collaborating and communicating. Other changes are happening too; increasingly, businesses with an eye on maximising productivity appreciate the importance of a happy, healthy […]
“London is not going to fall off a cliff”. This was how Tony Charles, Morgan Stanley’s real estate research chief provided a sense of perspective on the capital’s commercial property market at the end of July. Prices haven’t collapsed – but things have changed – and by and large, landlords are in a weaker bargaining […]
The Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) looks set to tighten up its guidelines setting out how dual agencies should deal with conflicts of interests. How might this help to ensure fairer outcomes for tenants? While RICS undertakes its review, academics from The University of Leeds have recently provided the industry with further food for […]
While the UK attempts to work out the possible implications of the vote to exit the EU – can you afford to put big decisions on hold? For organisations with important property decisions, such as a lease expiry or break on the horizon, business must go on. How do you balance accommodating the needs of your business and […]
The post-Brexit picture looks set to be unclear for the foreseeable future. For businesses with important property-related decisions, such as lease expiries or breaks on the horizon, this creates a potential dilemma: how do you balance accommodating your workforce, while avoiding an overly risky commitment? Here, we look at potential ways to deal with this […]
Does your next office move still seem a long way off? Time moves fast – and so too do the hottest London workspaces. If your lease expires in or before Spring 2017 – now is exactly the right time to put your planning process into gear, to avoid a last minute scramble (and missing out on […]
In any area of negotiation, you would never knowingly disclose your bargaining position to the other side. And if you’re looking for the best possible deal on a new office, you certainly wouldn’t expect your advisors to allow commercially sensitive information to fall into the lap of prospective landlords. On paper at least, dual agencies […]
Thanks to serviced offices, a growing number of businesses are reaping the benefits of a physical presence in the capital. Across the City, the West End, Docklands and beyond, the serviced office model can make a coveted London address a reality — both for up-and-coming businesses, as well as for more established organisations looking to scale up […]
Reputations are built on trust – and for the commercial property industry to retain the trust of businesses, it must be seen to deliver a fair deal to landlords and tenants alike. On the controversial issue of agencies acting for both landlords and tenants, considerable faith is placed in market discipline: the idea that if […]
Are businesses getting the service they expect from commercial property agents? SMEs deserve the full picture on “double dipping” (firms advising both landlords and tenants) and the implications this can have for securing a fair deal on office leases and licences. Increased awareness of the double dipping culture may help to prevent businesses getting shortchanged, […]
We are thrilled to announce the partnership between pioneering occupier-only commercial property advisors, DeVono and Cresa. As DeVono Cresa we can deliver occupier representation on a global scale, giving our clients the ‘best of both worlds’. We are now part of a global firm of more than 800 employees, in over 70 offices around the world. […]