Creating a Strategic Workplace for Clariant: Right-Sizing for Optimisation and Growth
Swiss multinational speciality chemical company Clariant sought to improve workplace performance and align its real estate strategy with regional business objectives. Key challenges included maximising space efficiency, reducing operating costs, and enhancing talent retention and attraction.
Knight Frank was appointed for its ability to deliver end-to-end solutioning that would ensure the client's deliverables were met.
Strategic Approach and Execution
Our colleague Bryan Tan negotiated a favourable industrial lease agreement that led to a 12%+ reduction in rental costs and optimised the workspace footprint by 50%. Immediate financial savings and long-term operational efficiency were swiftly achieved.
Our workplace consultant and project management team led by Roohid Novinrooz and Aung Pan Seng conducted a detailed analysis of utilisation patterns and user-space behaviours. Post-pandemic insights were translated into a comprehensive business case, evaluating scenarios that balanced operational and financial impact in alignment with the client’s strategic goals.
They then collaborated with award-winning interior design studio OSCA ASIA to design a bespoke project plan for live renovation, providing end-to-end services from consultancy to delivery.
Outcomes and Impact
Clariant's new, optimised workplace stands as a prismatic example of end-to-end real estate advisory and project delivery. Its transformation reflects an ideal balance of functionality and aesthetic appeal that better supports its business vision and employee needs.
Enhanced collaboration spaces promote teamwork and innovation, while a refreshed, polished environment boosts employee morale and productivity. The introduction of agile working principles enabled flexibility and diverse work settings. And a stronger sense of arrival creates a welcoming and professional impression for visitors and staff.
The flexible, future-ready workspace also supports our client’s regional growth strategy and enhances the overall employee experience.
The right team for the job
As with previous projects, this case study highlights Knight Frank’s ability to deliver holistic workplace solutions that align business strategy with real estate performance, ensuring long-term value creation.
Our transaction management team, with a proven track record in the industrial sector, leveraged its strong relationship with the landlord to secure a highly competitive lease agreement for Clariant within an optimal timeframe.
With meticulous planning and coordination, our workplace consulting team ensured a seamless collaboration with OSCA, managing the renovation and reinstatement works with precision. This approach allowed for a smooth transition with minimal business disruption, ensuring that every detail was executed effectively.
Looking for a reliable team to provide solutioning services? Contact us today.
