GEYER VALMONT was engaged to bring a new level of sophistication to the Sydney headquarters for Richard Crookes Constructions, a well-respected and established Australian business committed to workplace collaboration and inclusivity.
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The brief was to create a space that reflected their culture-driven ambition; to make their team feel genuinely cared for and empowered to reach their full potential. The design of the new two-floor headquarters aimed to dissolve both perceived and physical barriers by fostering a sense of openness, connectivity, and togetherness. This was accomplished through innovative design that maximised space and harnessed natural light along the length of the façade. The result is a welcoming workplace that elevates Richard Crookes Constructions’ commitment to service, reliability, and collaboration.
The primary objective of the design was to provide a greater variety of collaboration spaces for Richard Crookes Constructions’ team. Generous planning, with wide corridors and extensive use of glass, creates visual connections across different areas of the office. This transparency fosters a sense of openness and community, encouraging employees to interact more freely and naturally. The design and strategic placement of interconnecting stairs further enhances connectivity, promoting movement and interaction between the floors.
A standout feature is the central zone, a pavilion-like structure that acts as a cohesive element throughout the space. This architectural centerpiece unifies the floors and houses key collaboration and utility areas. The modular design of the central zone allows for future flexibility, ensuring the office can adapt to changing needs without significant overhauls.
“We were determined to create an authentic, warm space with timeless appeal that captures the journey and legacy of our business. The new lobby activates the arrival experience for clients, suppliers, and industry partners, promoting incidental connections through its open layout,” said Jamie Crookes, Managing Director at Richard Crookes Constructions.
Our team worked closely with Richard Crookes Constructions’ internal teams and subcontractors throughout the process, to ensure every detail was thoughtfully considered. This included a series of design and branding workshops, as well as multiple rounds of costing and design refinements to stay within budget without compromising on quality or aesthetics.
Peta Wilson, Head of Business Improvement at Richard Crookes Constructions, reflected on the success of this collaboration. “GEYER VALMONT demonstrated a consistent ability to anticipate future trends, incorporating innovative and sustainable solutions into our project while working within budget and programme.”
“They translated our unique needs into a design that meets current business requirements and positions us well for future growth. We’ve seen a remarkable increase in desk occupancy since we moved in, a testament to the collaborative and social elements of the space.”
Throughout the documentation phase detailed cost plans and material samples were presented, allowing the client to make informed decisions about where to invest and where to economise. This transparent approach ensured that project outcomes were met effectively and efficiently.
The workplace was designed by GEYER VALMONT to be magnetic – and RCC employees are responding to their new HQ in the most telling way possible.
“People vote with their feet”, says Vanessa Riley, RCC’s Chief People Officer. “The people that used to work from home most of the time are here…all of the time. There’s an energy and sociability that this office brings…it creates FOMO.”
“They have a choice, and this is where they choose to be”, says Peta Wilson, Head of Business Improvement at RCC. “People are spending way more time here connecting with others, which is exactly what we wanted, and quite different to what we had before.”
Boosted their staff engagement score to 91%.
Been named a 2025 Inspiring Workplaces Finalist (Australasia).
Earned official certification as a Great Place to Work for 2025.
Peta Wilson, Head of Business Improvement at RCC describes the new HQ as “the epitome of us”, adding that it has “promoted an intensity of work that I can’t explain.”
It isn’t just an office, it’s a destination people are drawn to — for connection, for collaboration, and for the energy they’d miss out on otherwise.
