When we can quickly establish how relevant is the proposed spot through a quick site analysis combined with our pre-established “ideal layout”, we can show interest in a few potential vacant properties. Then we are the kings…Why?
Because we have created our own little “buyers’ market”.
From this convenient position, having more time and confidence, while the CFO negotiates the best deal out of them I have enough time to expand my research and consider lots of other factors. What’s the state of the infrastructure, mechanical, communication, and electrical, and their ability to support our office requirements with minimum modifications? What is the general state of the structure including partitions, exterior walls, and glass?
Two other major aspects are location-related. Location in the greater urban scale and the immediate vicinity. When I say “Location”, it doesn’t necessarily imply that we have to have the coolest spot in town. Sometimes it is about accessibility and traffic, train lines, etc. However, the coolness factor of the immediate surroundings is nonetheless crucial! Do not forget… your assembly line is made out of very young people. These guys don’t go to work in the morning and then back to their homes in the suburbs… This is their life, they come to be there and have fun! At some point later in the evening, they would go back to crush in their micro-apartments in the East Village. My friends, a lot of research is made on the working culture of the millennials and we must keep in mind that it is nothing short of an unprecedented human revolution. So, what’s the building’s hospitality profile in terms of food, a safe bicycle parking lot, and in-house showers? Is there a gym in the building?
Create your own ``buyers' market`` then sit back and entertain a few realty suitors!.
When we can quickly establish how relevant is the proposed spot through a quick site analysis combined with our pre-established “ideal layout”, we can show interest in a few potential vacant properties. Then we are the kings…Why?
Because we have created our own little “buyers’ market”.
From this convenient position, having more time and confidence, while the CFO negotiates the best deal out of them I have enough time to expand my research and consider lots of other factors. What’s the state of the infrastructure, mechanical, communication, and electrical, and their ability to support our office requirements with minimum modifications? What is the general state of the structure including partitions, exterior walls, and glass?
Two other major aspects are location-related. Location in the greater urban scale and the immediate vicinity. When I say “Location”, it doesn’t necessarily imply that we have to have the coolest spot in town. Sometimes it is about accessibility and traffic, train lines, etc. However, the coolness factor of the immediate surroundings is nonetheless crucial! Do not forget… your assembly line is made out of very young people. These guys don’t go to work in the morning and then back to their homes in the suburbs… This is their life, they come to be there and have fun! At some point later in the evening, they would go back to crush in their micro-apartments in the East Village. My friends, a lot of research is made on the working culture of the millennials and we must keep in mind that it is nothing short of an unprecedented human revolution. So, what’s the building’s hospitality profile in terms of food, a safe bicycle parking lot, and in-house showers? Is there a gym in the building?
1. Functionality
Renting 2000sqm in London and building a new space costs a few pounds… The space should be efficient, flexible, and functional. It should accommodate a certain well-defined ratio of square footage per person and cost a certain number of $$$ per square foot. It should allow future expansion and support our various activities for as long as possible.
2. Balance
It should maintain a strong balance between the workspace and places for communal activities. It should accommodate general gatherings and team interactions of various types and sizes but at the same time make room for one’s own private personal space.
3. Brand
The space should reflect our brand in essence and visuals. Visitors and employees alike should feel that this house, like any other Taboola office around the world, is part of a fresh and sturdy long-lasting global network, a company that’s here to stay with a unique set of values and a strong product.
More about location and the coolness factor
And of course, it is imperative to send an expedition and learn about the habits of the local ‘tribes’. How far are the best happy-hour spots and what’s up with the local restaurants and grocery shops? I know it may sound odd but I wouldn’t take it lightly!
A successful young tech company can flourish only within the right urban context.
It is about food and drinks as well as about good spots to hang out, go shopping and have fun. In that sense three of the best spots I’ve designed are located in Central London on Goodge Street corner of Tottenham Court Road, on 23rd Street corner with 5th Avenue in NYC, and Bangkok off-Sukomvit on Soi23. In all cases the urban context is electrifying!
A constant stream of thousands of tourists by day and night, major train stations nearby, an abundance of hotels, shops and restaurants, bars of all colors and shapes, green parks, and lots of entertainment.
My long-time clients often say “What are you talking about… we are trying to establish a place of business, not a night club”…
Well, are you sure?… Not exactly! However, on this, I will be happy to elaborate in my next article! I think I’m going to call it “Why is it so important to locate a grand piano in your new reception lobby”
