What Office Space Is Right for My Business?

It goes without saying that every business and the way they operate is different from the next. That said, all businesses have their own set of business goals that they want to achieve, with their employees being the driving force behind its success.

Whether you are looking to increase headcount in the near future, promote collaboration or improve staff well-being, choosing the right kind of property plays an integral role. This article will highlight the key considerations when finding the right office space for your business so you can make an informed decision.

What Should I Consider When Choosing an Office Space?

There are three main considerations when choosing an office space, all of which feed into each other to promote a positive working environment:

• People: A people-centric workplace caters to how staff work for improved well-being, engagement and user experience. By investing in their people, businesses will see the benefits through productivity and motivation levels amongst the workforce.
• Place: The placement and positioning of the ‘finishing touches’ to an office space can significantly improve morale and efficiency. These include: storage facilities, branding, furniture, IT equipment and access to plugs, to name a few.
• Processes: Consider how your business and its staff operate on a day-to-day basis. Taking into account remote working, ask yourself how team members communicate with each other and what technology is required to facilitate this. Perhaps certain services or processes require breakout areas for employees to collaborate and brainstorm ideas.

What Are the Three Main Office Space Options?

As more and more businesses have shifted towards new ways of working in recent years – such as hybrid and remote working – now’s the time to assess the office space options available, taking into account cost, lease/contract length and flexibility.

• Serviced Offices: These are spaces managed by a provider who rents offices, floors or desks in their building to different companies and individuals. There has been a rise in popularity for serviced offices in recent years as businesses have chosen coworking spaces to accommodate hybrid and remote working. It’s worth noting that this option does prevent businesses from branding the workspace, and there can be limited privacy depending on the layout.
  • Benefits: flexibility in contract term length; lower running costs; additional features such as security and maintenance included.
  • Ideal for: small businesses and start-ups
• Managed Offices: For this option, a third-party supplier will arrange everything so you can concentrate on business operations. They will pay close attention to the requirements of your business to find the right building and ensure it is fully equipped with everything you and your employees need. Investing money into managed offices will see you reap the benefits of a more engaged and productive workforce.
  • Benefits: you have full control over privacy and security at the premises; the look and functionality of the space is tailored to your specific business needs, including number of meeting rooms, positioning of breakout spaces, etc.
  • Ideal for: small businesses scaling up and growing.
• Leased Offices: These offices are let out to a business for a length of time agreed between the property owner and leaseholder, depending on their individual needs. The responsibility of maintaining the facilities falls to the tenant – this typically includes office fit out, although some landlords include this as part of the agreement. When it comes to leased offices, you must take into account the contractual obligations involved as a breach of these can lead to penalties.
  • Benefits: no shared resources with other businesses; permission to promote business identity through branding and office layout.
  • Ideal for: established businesses in a stable financial position to commit to a contract term of a minimum of three years.

When it comes to office space, one size doesn’t fit all. As mentioned at the start of this article, no two businesses are exactly the same, and this is reflected in the layout and design of the workplace. For bespoke office fit out services across London, Birmingham, Manchester, Cambridge and Milton Keynes, look no further than Ashlar. As a full-service commercial design and fit out contractor, we take care of everything so you can concentrate on business operations knowing that you’re in safe hands. contact us today to find out more about any of our services.