The new 4,000 sq ft space will accommodate the company’s move towards a hybrid working model.

Avison Young has exchanged contracts on its new office at 1 City Square, Leeds. The strategic real estate advisor will shortly begin fitting out the 4,000 sq ft space, which is due for completion in mid-October 2021.

With the firm’s lease on its previous base at City Point, King Street having expired on 24 June 2021, Avison Young took the opportunity to move further towards its more flexible, hybrid working model, opting for smaller accommodation while placing the focus on a high quality, productive environment for staff and clients.

1 City Square will offer zones for different styles of working, including collaboration areas, break out booths, traditional desk space and client lounges, ensuring the space provides a variety of settings to accommodate different activities throughout the working day.

Claire Paraskeva, Principal and Regional Managing Director of Avison Young’s Leeds office, said: “The pandemic has further accelerated pre-existing trends on how we utilise office space, which is one positive that can be taken from challenges we have all faced in the last 18 months. As a business we have adapted well to working from home and have learned that being present in the office five days a week is no longer necessary for everyone.

“However, a shared space for collaboration, training and fostering our people-centred culture remains invaluable. Our move to 1 City Square proves that we practice what we preach to our clients in terms of cost mitigation and adaptability in a changing world, while providing a high quality, welcoming space for our people to work, learn and socialise.

“The Grade-A office accommodation at 1 City Square also stands in line with Avison Young’s sustainability agenda, putting our core beliefs into action.”

Jill Goodman, who acted for Avison Young to acquire the suite, commented: ”I am delighted that we have been able to agree suitable terms for a lease in this landmark property, especially in the context of the limited supply of Grade-A stock available in the city centre. The location is fantastic and, Avison Young will capitalise on the smart working occupier experience made possible in this property by the collaborative working areas, wellness suites and high-quality fit-out. 1 City Square offers the right type of environment for future proofed working”.