History meets modern business needs for new independent start-up company

Newly formed independent family-run company, ‘Offices at No.1’ providing high-end unique and distinctive serviced offices, celebrated opening in Exeter with a glittering launch event.   Over 60 guests made up of professionals, members of the business community, local artists, as well as friends and family enjoyed bubbles, wine and canapés to the accompaniment of music provided by the talented Exeter University Jazz Orchestra. 

Located at prestigious Barnfield Crescent in the heart of the city, ‘Offices at No.1’ offer 24/7 accessible private serviced offices with easy-in, easy-out flexibility with nine car parking spaces. Fully furnished and suited to businesses of all sizes ranging from two – 20+ employees, the individual offices of 190 – 6,000 sq. ft are arranged over four stories with separate meeting rooms available. Shared kitchens and shower rooms are located on every floor, plus storage space in the basement and a private, secluded outside communal area.  Renting space is affordable and meeting rooms can be hired from as little as £10 per hour. High speed business-grade fibre optic internet installed by Torquay firm Ponticello IT Solutions, and full reception service from 9am to 5pm daily, ensure all communication bases are covered.

This is the first management project for London-based Stuart Hoddinott who grew up in the local area and was educated at Exeter School.  Stuart and his family bought the building 12 months ago, and as a former home to an art gallery on the ground floor, they applied for a change of use to convert to offices.  It was a real labour of love to convert No.1’ Barnfield Crescent into 13 distinctive, separate rooms equipped with between 3 and 12 workstations. Local suppliers were used throughout the project, including Exminster builders RappsCo, engaged to sympathetically restore the building to its former glory.  

The newly formed company used the professional services of chartered surveyors, Stratton Creber Commerical, based in nearby Southernhay.  Simon Greenslade – Director Stratton Creber Commercial said:“We were pleased to have been able to work with the new owners of No.1 Barnfield Crescent during the recent refurbishment period to bring this wonderful building into the 21st century, fit for the demands of today’s occupiers. We are continuing to work with the owners to ensure the smooth running of these fantastic new serviced offices.”

Although now living in Fulham, Stuart was raised in Devon and finding this building was in line with his dream of coming back to his roots to create bespoke and stylish serviced offices in Exeter. This is reflected in the names he has allocated to each of the rooms such as; Dart, Exe and Teign.

Owner of ‘Offices at No.1’ – Stuart Hoddinott said: “I am so excited to launch my first business venture in the city where I grew up and this wonderful building was in line with our vision.  When we walked through the door a year ago the building was looking tired and dated, however we could immediately see its potential.  There is a rich history and grace to the building which was built by William Shapter in 1840 and it’s the only one he constructed in the crescent, making it unique.  We were blown away by the fantastic space; beautiful period features and how the light streams through the large sash windows, the stunning views across the city and beyond – it has a timeless elegance. Each room is individual and has its own unique style. The flexibility of contracts for as little as one month means that a business can upgrade to larger office space as they grow, and yet remain at the same prestigious address”. He adds:“The history is a wonderful backdrop; however, it was important to meet modern business needs; including parking on site which is key in the city-centre and installing high-speed internet to ensure data is rapidly downloaded.  We are very excited about starting this new venture in Exeter and integrating with the local business community.” 

Mike Evans an Exeter-based Architect a guest at ‘Offices at No.1’ launchis currently working from home in Exeter and looking for office space in the city-centre.  He concludes:“As an architect I have an appreciative eye for great style in a working space, and the offices here are absolutely beautiful.  They have restored it tastefully with a modern feel and conveniences, yet in sympathy with its original décor.  There’s a real sense of space and light whilst in keeping with its sense of history.” 

www.officesatnumber1.com