Build The Future: What I Learned When Creating A New Flagship Office

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Thirteen years ago, I started RedKey Realty Leaders in a single room at the Frontenac Hilton. It was modest — just a desk, a vision and a passion for reshaping what a real estate company could be.

Now, as we prepare to celebrate our 13th anniversary and the opening of our brand-new flagship office in Clayton, Missouri, I find myself reflecting on how far we’ve come — and what this move means not just for our team, but for our industry.

Relocating an office — especially your headquarters — is never just about square footage. It’s about values. It’s about culture. And if done right, it’s about vision.

I’m sharing a behind-the-scenes look at our journey to our new space in the hopes that it may inspire other brokers who are reimagining how their physical space can serve their people, their clients and their growth.

Why we moved

The decision to leave our long-time Frontenac, Missouri, location wasn’t taken lightly. That office held history. It was the first physical manifestation of RedKey’s heartbeat — filled with energy, creativity and big dreams.

But as we’ve grown, we realized that our flagship office needed to evolve. We weren’t just looking for a place to work; we needed a space that reflects who we are now and who we’re becoming.

In the post-pandemic real estate world, the purpose of a physical office has changed. It’s no longer about rows of desks and assigned seating. It’s about collaboration. Flexibility. A space that welcomes, inspires and supports a hybrid workforce. We wanted to create an environment where agents actually want to come in — not because they have to, but because the energy is magnetic and the support is tangible.

Finding the right space

When we began our search, we were clear about three things:

1. We wanted to be closer to the core of St. Louis. Clayton offered a central, prestigious location that’s easily accessible.
   
2. We needed a space that we could make our own, open to renovation and reinvention.
   
3. It had to allow for future expansion; we’re not done growing.
   

We toured countless buildings, but when I walked into 1034 S. Brentwood Blvd, I saw potential. It didn’t look like RedKey, yet. But it had the bones: a mezzanine level, flexible layout and plenty of natural light. Most importantly, I could picture our agents thriving there.

Designing with purpose

Renovation began with a single question: What do our agents need to be at their best?

We brought in workplace designers who understood our culture and started from scratch. The result is a thoughtfully designed, modern space that still feels warm and inviting.

It includes:

• Two conference rooms for private client meetings and team trainings
• Access to the building’s gym
  
• A mix of open-desk areas and private offices to support different workstyles
  
• Places to socialize and comfortable lounges that encourage spontaneous collaboration
  
• A mezzanine level that adds vertical energy and a sense of discovery
  

We also created areas for quiet reflection and focus. Real estate is a high-energy business, and we all need moments to breathe, reset and recharge.

Culture comes first

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned over the years is that culture doesn’t just happen. You have to build it intentionally. And the physical environment plays a huge role.

At RedKey, our culture is built on love, service and fun. That means creating a space where people feel valued, where help is always available and where laughter echoes down the halls.

We made choices in the design process that reflect those values. For example, the kitchen is at the center of the office, not tucked away in the back, because we believe connection happens over coffee and casual conversation. Our training room is wired for hybrid events because we want every agent, regardless of office location, to feel included and empowered.

Lessons for other brokers

If you’re thinking about upgrading or relocating your office space, here are a few takeaways from our experience:

1. Start with your people: Your agents aren’t just employees — they’re your brand ambassadors. Ask them what they need. What helps them thrive. What frustrates them. Their feedback will guide your decisions and ensure buy-in from the start.
2. Think beyond today: Design for the company you want to be five years from now. Build in flexibility. Modular furniture, multiuse rooms and tech-friendly infrastructure will future-proof your space.
3. Culture isn’t a luxury — it’s a strategy: Don’t underestimate the ROI of a positive workplace culture. At RedKey, we’ve been named a Top Workplace in St. Louis for multiple consecutive years, and I firmly believe that’s because we invest in our people, not just our processes.
4. Make it feel like home: Real estate is personal. Our agents deal with families, hopes, dreams and major life transitions. Give them an environment that reflects that warmth, a place where they feel proud to bring clients.
5. Celebrate the journey: Moving offices is a milestone worth honoring. Our open house on June 26 isn’t just a party — it’s a reminder of how far we’ve come and where we’re headed.

A new chapter begins

Standing in our new office, I’m filled with gratitude. Gratitude for the team that made this move possible, for the clients who trust us, and for the communities in and around St. Louis — our forever home. 

This office isn’t just a building. It’s a symbol of our values, our ambition, our commitment to being a local, independent brokerage, and our belief in what’s possible when people are supported, seen and set up to succeed.

If you’re a broker wondering whether now is the time to rethink your space, I encourage you to do it. Build something that reflects the heart of your company. Give your people a space that fuels their success. You’ll be amazed at what unfolds.