A psychologist finds his perfect workspace inside The Mansion

By Elyse Singleton

Thomas Needham, president and senior consultant of Global Executive Resources, LLC, has been running his business out of The Mansion, a serviced office building on Shaanxi Bei Lu, for almost a year. Luckily, finding the perfect space to house his company which deals with leadership training and assessment and executive coaching was an easy feat since he was referred to the location by a friend. "My first impressions of this space were very favorable," he says. "I was impressed by the columns, high ceilings, winding staircase and quiet setting."

His previous office space 
had not been suitable for Needham’s company as it was located in a business center that lacked weekend or evening access. However, at The Mansion, he was pleased to find not only the desired flexibility in access, but also administrative support services, as well as a larger space in which to work. "The staff is very courteous," says Needham, "and all fees [for renting this space] are fully transparent and reasonable." The location is also very convenient as it is close to the major commercial hub of Nanjing Xi Lu. "It's in one of the most strategic locations in Shanghai but with a peaceful ambiance," Needham says.

Design-wise, The Mansion is a very distinct office complex as it is housed in a two-story neo-classical building built in the 1920s (hence the impressive large white Romanesque columns). The most appealing design features in the office include the building’s "European style" and "the bright colors used" in the decor and, an unusual feature in standard office space, floor-to-ceiling windows. A rare treat in Shanghai, The Mansion is set in extensive 3,000 square meter grounds. The adjacent green land is definitely an added bonus and an impressive incentive for the tenants.

The offices are also equipped with the latest technology, such as electronic door locks, Wi-Fi Internet connection and state-of-the-art video conferencing equipment, which is well-maintained and easy to access-Can important consideration for any office space. "The innovative design, such as installing the heating and air-conditioning equipment in the original fireplaces," is also a clever idea that appeals to Needham.

Practical and clever design in an unusual building combine to make a truly unique office location, but for Needham, 
it’s the "big windows overlooking 
grass and trees" that make it truly special.

Office Highlights

"The adminstrative support staff are very courteous," says Needham.

The large windows in his office offer a view into the garden, allowing Needham to take a break during his busy work day.

State-of-the art equipment offers convenience and efficiency while meeting Needham's business needs.