We wanted to share with you the journey Crystal Ball has been on in the last 7 months, from an unexpected and sudden office move to a fantastic new work environment for all members of staff.
Having been located at West Point on Chester Road, Manchester for almost 18 years, it was a bitter sweet moment when we were told we had to find new premises due to the building being transformed from commercial premises into student accommodation. However, with the old office space becoming somewhat tired and in need of a face lift, it is fair to say the move was a blessing in disguise.
After a stressful few months with a strict deadline in place for vacating by 31 December 2017, we are now well settled into our new head office and very proud of what has been achieved. Crystal Ball is now located directly next to Lancashire County Cricket Club and even closer and a stone’s throw away from Manchester Utd’s ground, Old Trafford.
We feel our new office space reflects the work life culture we wanted to portray, a perfect balance between professionalism but also a place to relax and de-stress during breaks and lunch hours. We created a water feature in the entrance hall to offer a sense of peacefulness and harmony, as you enter you’re met by mood lighting and the tranquil sound of trickling water.
The latest technology has been equipped throughout the entire office, including the technical support, marketing, account management, IT and development departments. The aesthetics were extremely important when designing the new office, style, colours, furniture and ergonomics were all carefully considered. The furniture was selected with maximum comfort in mind, delivering an ergonomically friendly work space and the carpet, with striking hints of hot pink and lime, was chosen to provide a very vibrant and modern working environment.
The boardroom, undoubtedly the most impressive part of the office was designed to extend a fitting corporate image for Crystal Ball. The bespoke, hand-made fumed eucalyptus veneer table is a stunning and unique piece of furniture, produced to our own specification as we wanted to provide a statement within the boardroom.
The breakout area is equipped with many mod-cons including a 65 inch HD TV and an American style fridge/freezer, plus a breakfast bar style dining area and low level seating. This area was designed for the staff to enjoy during their breaks and lunch hours, offering a comfortable and relaxing space. The rooftop garden located on top of the building also provides a zen area for staff to relax and enjoy the sunshine that Manchester has to offer from time to time!
All in all, after a very stressful time stretching over the Christmas and New Year period, we are now very happy and comfortable in our new office. As a result staff morale has significantly increased and the office ambience is lively and uplifting. This considerable investment has given Crystal Ball the capability to expand and grow faster, and look to the future with an extremely positive outlook. If you would like to visit our new office please contact us directly, we would love to welcome you!