The sixth of our CPD Series blog posts comes from Michelle Rothwell, the founder of Watch This Space.
Michelle set up investment and urban development company, Watch This Space, in 2016 following her successes at Capital & Centric and CBRE.
We have known Michelle from her time at CBRE when joint agents on some office instructions together. Always smiling and positive.
Michelle has won awards for her amazing contribution so far in the property industry. In 2018 Michelle picked up Insider’s ‘Newcomer of the Year‘ Award at the Property Awards for creating the first dedicated property co-work space in Manchester. In 2023, Michelle was awarded the ‘Game Changer‘ award at the same Property Awards, being commended for approaching the market from different angle; and doing things differently across the residential and commercial property sectors.
Whilst smashing the property industry as an innovation expert and disruptor, Michelle also holds some enviable personal achievements including completing the Marathon des Sables, known as “the toughest race on Earth”, running with all your food and kit for 150 miles through the Sahara desert.
In addition to this, at the age of just 23 Michelle became the youngest and the fourth quickest person ever, in a time of 92 hours, to finish the Enduroman Arch-to-Arc Challenge, a gruelling 285-mile triathlon from London’s Marble Arch to the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. Not stopping there, Michelle was also part of a team that set the world record for the longest fresh water swim at 126 miles.
A day in the office for Michelle Rothwell is clearly a breeze!
So, here we go with the sixth edition…
1. How long have you been working in the property sector and when did you qualify as a Chartered Surveyor?
I have been working in the property sector for over 15 years. I qualified as a Chartered Surveyor about 10 years ago.
2. How has your role changed in the property sector over your career to date?
My role has evolved significantly. Initially, I focused on traditional surveying tasks, agency and property management. Over time, I transitioned into a more strategic position, where I now lead innovative projects and explore creative solutions for space utilization, particularly in adaptive reuse. I love both conversions and new build projects where we can make a real difference.
3. You have been involved in some innovative projects to date at Watch This Space, including the conversion of a former pub in the Lake District in to Billy’s Space, a co-working and private office destination for creative industries. What really gets you excited when looking at an idea for the first time?
What excites me the most is the potential to transform underutilized spaces into vibrant, functional environments that foster creativity and collaboration. The opportunity to rethink and reimagine a space that can help a community thrive I love
4. Is the concept of Watch This Space/Billy’s Space coming to any other UK regional locations as a disruptor, challenging the existing more traditional offering?
Absolutely! We thrive on challenges, and also doing things differently
5. Do you act on impulse, or do you meticulously work through opportunity ideas – or both?
I would say it’s a mix of both. While I rely on thorough analysis and planning to evaluate opportunities, I also believe in the value of intuition and seizing opportunities as they arise. Balancing careful consideration with a willingness to act decisively is key to driving innovation.
6. What are your predictions for the office sector over the next 12 months?
I predict a continued shift towards hybrid work models and flexible office spaces. Companies will increasingly seek adaptable environments that support both remote and in-office work and how they can creative a sustainable community for business growth. There will also be a greater emphasis on wellness and sustainability in office design as organizations strive to create healthier, more engaging workspaces.
7. How important now is ESG in new developments/conversions and are occupiers focusing on this yet in decision making?
Absolutely essential, we need to create long term value
8. What is your favourite commercial building in the UK, and why?
Ha ha great chance to plug my own. I love Bridge Street Studios which we created in Manchester, which the Guardian referred to as “the magnificent floral refurb”. We transformed a derelict tired grey building into a thriving 5 storey floral gem of an office!
Light stuff:
1. Where have you holidayed this year?
Chamonix, I thrive and get a real buzz out of the mountains and the outdoors.
2. What one thing (only) would you take with you to a desert island?
My family
3. Desert island discs – which one album would you take?
Would have to be one with some sing along classics!
4. Are you a book reader, podcaster or both?
Both
5. Where is your favourite location that you have visited for holiday, and why?
Bhutan, wow. A country that rates its wealth on “Gross National Happiness” over : “Great Domestic Product” what a lovely way to assess the world.
We want to say a big thank you to Michelle Rothwell for this blog piece and you can find out all about Watch This Space and their commercial and residential spaces, at the following link: Watch This Space
