Virtual reality secures first customer for Neo

PROPERTY giant Bruntwood’s flagship workspace Neo can be explored whilst it is still under development, thanks to the company’s virtual reality (VR) viewing experience that shows how the building will look when it is completed in early 2017.

Agents and business owners can immerse themselves in the 12-storey Portland Street development in Manchester’s city centre, including its collaborative and coworking spaces, communal lounges and meeting rooms, plus its external roof terrace with outdoor ‘all weather’ meeting pods.

In addition to the intuitive and user-friendly technology (such as bluetooth building access) which is installed as standard throughout Neo, the building also has a £250,000 digital art space installed in the lobby.

Peter Crowther, Bruntwood’s property director, said: “In a world that’s forever changing, where technology is becoming increasingly prevalent, the property viewing experience is evolving to meet customer expectations. Bruntwood is always looking for innovative ways to improve the customer experience and while physical viewings will always be important to get a sense of scale, virtual reality can really bring the space to life before it exists.”

Following the launch of the VR tour, Bruntwood has announced the first letting for Neo – The Penketh Group, who will take the full eighth floor of Neo.

The company, which creates bespoke office environments, providing furniture, audio visuals and interiors, and was originally commissioned to design and create the collaborative shared spaces at Neo.

Paul Mann, sales director of The Penketh Group, said: “We fell in love with Bruntwood’s Neo as soon as we saw the computer generated vision for the building. This iconic Manchester landmark building completely matches the aspirations of our own brand.

“Customers visiting our new 5,000 sq ft showroom will be able to see our comprehensive range of products and with its 360 degree panoramic views across Manchester, the Neo office will also be an inspiring and vibrant place for our growing team of designers and workplace consultants to work.”

You can make use of the virtual reality technology on-site at Neo using Samsung Gear headsets, off-site via a smart phone with a virtual reality viewer or by visiting bruntwood.co.uk/neo where the tour can be viewed on screen.