​The degree to which the social environment plays a role in our activity and motivation has been explored in countless studies. Organisations’ endless pursuit of greater collaboration has led to knocking down walls and removing spatial boundaries to allow for greater contact and interaction. It is widely believed that without such boundaries there will be room for increased collaboration, communication and overall support among staff. 

Many organisations have opted for open plan workplaces hoping that productivity will increase through shared access to materials and more quick and frequent interaction on connected tasks. The fans of open plan will staunchly defend the role of an open environment in building social support and a sense of community. 

But does an open workspace really improve collaboration? At BRM Projects we think it can. But, like everything else, there is a fine balance that needs to be achieved and with the proper layout, businesses can be just as productive, healthy and collaborative, as with a traditional office. 

​BRM’s extensive experience collaborating with not-for-profit and child-centric organisations has been reflected in a fantastic outcome for the accommodation strategy of OzChild, whose South-East operations were facing significant growth. Just this week, OzChild, under the guidance of BRM Real Estate, signed a long term lease at the former ATO building in Mason St Dandenong for what will become its first major office hub, in Victoria’s south east and the blueprint for future national offices. This is the first step in executing an accommodation strategy that BRM Projects has been involved in from late 2016. We are excited to move forward in implementing the next stages of the strategy, together with OzChild, in establishing the most effective workplace solutions for its expansion. 

There are certain projects we love delivering at BRM. Often they present a challenge by way of time or circumstance. WingArc Australia was one such project. 

BRM Projects came on board to offer strategic guidance at a time when WingArc Australia was undergoing a period of significant transition. Our involvement in the company’s move to a new workplace reflected the type of guidance we offer and how that guidance can make the difference between a quick fix and a truly successful outcome for the business.

​The team of property experts at BRM Real Estate is proud to have as its leader Peter Northwood, a commercial, industrial and retail property specialist with over 40 years of experience. We sat down with Peter last week to gain some insight into the world of commercial leasing and the importance of staying informed and protected as a tenant.