Words by Michelle Heslop. Photos by Jody Beck.
In a move to create an inviting office space to welcome associates and their clients, Newport Realty was looking for the right location in a high visibility setting that would serve their target market. With a Fort Street location checking all the boxes, Jack Petrie, managing partner of Newport Realty, turned to Monk Office to customize the space with their innovative DIRTT System and high-quality office furniture. The clean, modern aesthetic of DIRTT was the initial appeal for Newport, but they were also drawn to the system’s reconfiguration ability, allowing maximum use of the footprint. Newport Realty opened their bright and innovative new space in the spring of 2017.
“I dropped into the Monk Office on Oak Street to get the ball rolling with some ideas and was shown the DIRTT system. I immediately called my partner and managing broker and insisted they come over right away to see if they loved the product as much as I did. It was unanimous. We knew DIRTT offered the atmosphere and design concept we envisioned and after researching Monk’s competitor to compare the cost and timing of installation, we were convinced that we would go with the DIRTT system from Monk,” says Petrie.
The most notable benefit of the DIRTT wall system starts with the design process. DIRTT uses 3-D software to create an interactive walk-through so clients are able to get a feel for the layout and make any changes prior to construction. DIRTT is a modular system that minimizes construction waste, provides embedded technology and is easily reconfigurable. To add or remove offices or transform two offices into a boardroom without a lot of downtime or construction mess was a significant advantage.
In a high traffic space where clients and realtors are coming and going, details like the system’s soft close doors were very appealing to the team. Petrie adds that “with meeting spaces across the front of the building, the glass walls also allowed maximum light transfer into the corridors. Each private office is flooded with natural light and etched glass doors create added privacy.”
The acoustics of the DIRTT system was a consideration to protect the privacy of conversations between rooms. DIRTT understands acoustic technology and takes a holistic approach to sound management, looking at every surface in construction.
Also sourced from Monk Office, Herman Miller chairs were chosen for their modern aesthetic as well as their unparalleled ergonomics. They passively adjust and support your weight as you sit without having to adjust any mechanisms. The LED lights above are both energy efficient and easy on eyes.
Petrie concludes that “we are very happy with the results. We wanted an office feel that was light, bright and handsome so our associates and clients would be impressed with the quality of the environment. It was a commitment to the confidence we have in our community and our real estate market.”
