Part of an international business is set to relocate to an iconic Newcastle street after the transformation of the premises by a local firm of commercial fit-out specialists.
Newcastle-based Aptus Fit Out, which offers a comprehensive design, space planning and refurbishment service throughout the UK, has been appointed by property and construction consultants Henry Riley LLP to renovate and modernise its new office at 33 Grey Street.
Henry Riley, which has a network of offices across the UK, South Africa and Australia, will enjoy the newly revamped space after relocating to the Hanro-owned Grainger Town address from its current home at Higham Place.
Joel Neasham, senior associate at Henry Riley, which employs a team of 10 in Newcastle, explained: “We wanted to base ourselves in a more central location in the city and Grey Street is an iconic address. We also wanted a new space that was more engaging for our staff – somewhere fresh where we could create a more versatile, agile work environment to grow into over time, so we were drawn to the space itself.
“Aptus really understood our requirements from the outset and the team are maintaining a flexible approach, steering us through the design process to create the environment we’re looking for. We’re now really excited to see our vision coming to life. The end result will be a breath of fresh air, it’s a natural evolution for us in line with how Henry Riley is modernising.”
Aptus, which also worked with property investment firm Hanro in the redesign of the reception area at the Grade II listed 71 Grey Street, is now also working to revamp the firm’s vacant third floor suite at 33 Grey Street, the ground floor of which houses Bar Luga. Once complete, new tenants will benefit from a quality working environment with exposed brickwork and feature lighting, alongside neighbours including North East Finance and recruitment firm Kelly Services.
Paul Hardcastle, business manager at Aptus said: “Grey Street is one of Newcastle’s most well-known and recognisable locations and we’re proud to be able to work with clients like Hanro and Henry Riley to create inspirational working environments that are sympathetic to, and in keeping with, the historical architecture of the area.”
Established for more than 12 years, Aptus, based in Hoult’s Yard, works to provide a turnkey service with full project management of schemes throughout the office, retail, leisure and healthcare sectors.
Laura Lloyd, property asset manager at The Hanro Group added: “We are very pleased to welcome Henry Riley to 33 Grey Street and are sure the building will prove to be an excellent base for their Newcastle team. Having worked previously with Aptus on other successful projects we know that their refurbishment of the 3rd floor will deliver a superb office suite, complete with some original features and a very high quality finish.”
Henry Riley is due to move in by mid-November. Knight Frank and Bradley Hall are joint letting agents for the vacant 3rd floor suite, which extends to 2,584 sq ft with secure car parking to the rear of the building.