Barristers shun tradition and buy solicitors' offices

Barristers are increasingly turning their backs on traditional working environments in favour of modern offices similar to those occupied by solicitors, the Bar Council said this week.The suggestion followed news that the age-old Inner Temple has bought international firm Dechert's head office in Fleet Street from lessor Morley Fund Management.

The move - which is believed to have cost between 30 and 40 million - will take place in three years' time, when Dechert's lease runs out.

The Inner Temple has had its eye on the property for some time because it wants to expand into more modern offices which are within its locality.

Bar Council spokesman Jon McLeod said barristers are increasingly aiming for a more modern working environment, either by renovating their existing offices - as Matrix Chambers has done - or taking the more radical step of moving into an entirely new building, following the lead of Doughty Street Chambers.'Barristers are having more direct contact with clients, from business professionals to architects and surveyors,' he said.

'This has changed expectations, and clients expect to see modern, clean lines and post-Habitat stylings.'Sir Peter Duffell, Dechert's chief executive officer, said that the firm would be looking for new premises in the meantime because it is growing out of the current available space.Paula Rohan