Rollits LLP, a leading local legal firm founded in Hull in 1841, has recently undergone a major relocation and rebrand to better align itself with the needs of a 21st century law firm and the needs of its staff and clients.
The decision to invest in Citadel House came as the firm was looking towards expansion and to enter a new phase of growth.
As well as creating a new and modern working environment for staff, and a purpose-built reception and meeting room complex for clients, the rebrand was an opportunity to refresh the company's image and future-proof the brand.
The new office space was designed by RFD Interior Design and completed by Ark Interiors, part of The Strata Group, both fellow Hull brands. The new building’s interior design and layout were tackled with great sensitivity in order to preserve Rollits' requirements for a new modern working environment coupled with the need for confidentiality within client areas and “thinking space” for lawyers.
Rollits was founded in 1841 when solicitor John Rollit opened his first law practice in Bowlalley Lane, Hull. Now employing 100 staff, the firm will be celebrating 175 years of business in June this year.
RFD Interior Architecture and Ark Interiors have collaborated on projects together in the past, making the process of creating the new Rollits’ space familiar territory for the veteran companies. RFD Interior Architects were brought in to collaborate on every phase of the project, choosing to work with Ark Interiors early in the process.
The new, open-plan work environment is much more modern than Rollits' current office structure in Wilberforce Court. The modern interior sports a purpose-built reception, meeting rooms and a conference facility that can house up to 60 people.
The new, four storey build has a different colour scheme on each floor, allowing for dynamic work environments for staff and an excellent meeting space for clients and visitors. The legal firm, proud of its rich history in the location, chose to stay in the city’s old town as they were proud of the brand's roots and heritage and wanted to ensure that the growing area remained a part of the firm's culture.
Ralph Gilbert, Managing Partner of Rollits, said: “We are extremely proud of our roots and heritage and wanted to stay in the centre of Hull when we relocated. Being right in the heart of the old town is perfect for us as we focus on scaling up activity in our core service areas and look to increase business in our niche sectors. We are excited about the continuing development and success of our practice and the part our move to Citadel House will play in the redevelopment of the city and the Old Town.”
Alex Jenneson, Director of RFD Interior Architects, said: “We were pleased to work alongside Ark Interiors again. The hard work and attention to detail they pride themselves on made them a perfect fit for this project. We worked closely with the team from Rollits and think the new building and design has truly connected people and their departments within Rollits, giving the firm a truly fresh approach for modern working practices and a clean contemporary feeling that reflects the quality of the brand well.”
Rebbeca Biggart of Ark Interiors said: “It was great to collaborate with RFD again and to work with such a great brand like Rollits on this project. We are all really pleased with the end result.”
