Flex space comes of age: Why businesses are choosing flexible workspaces

There is no doubt that flex space has come of age and is here to stay. It now represents 10% of office sector take-up, evolving from a niche solution to a core part of business property strategies. Our Future of Work Survey 2024 found that among businesses not currently in flex space, 52% are considering it in the future.

With offices across the UK, we’re well placed to understand why businesses are increasingly opting for flex space over traditional leases. Our clients, particularly from the financial, legal, recruitment, business and consulting and construction/engineering sectors shared what drew them to our space – and why they’re staying.

Flexibility and scalability

A consistent theme is the need for flexibility without long-term commitment. LHI Group, a global recruitment firm, began with a small office in our Bristol location in 2021 and rapidly expanded. Our flexible model allowed them to scale without relocating, reconfiguring the space to suit their needs.

Similarly, a national law firm established a new presence in Bristol with just two people. As their team grew to 15, they were able to expand seamlessly within the same centre – demonstrating how flex supports gradual growth with minimal risk.

Some clients see flex space as a temporary solution while they reconfigure their property portfolios or adapt to hybrid work patterns. Others may be downsizing but want the ability to scale back up quickly if needed.

Simpler operations

Clients also value the simplicity and efficiency that comes with flex space. SuttonCA Architects chose our Strand location to avoid the complexity of another five-year lease and the associated legal and administrative costs. Managing multiple suppliers for internet, cleaning, and utilities was a hassle they wanted to eliminate.

Managing director Chris Sutton said the convenience of a 12-month agreement with strong broadband and the freedom to scale was exactly what they needed. “It gives us the flexibility to grow as required,” he said.

Prime locations

Location is another major driver. For clients in insurance and banking, proximity to industry hubs is essential. Offices in EC3 like Gracechurch Street and Mark Lane, are particularly attractive to brokers who need easy access to clients and peers.

Outside of London, our centrally located offices in cities like Manchester are thriving, particularly those with strong transport links, including fast trains into London.

Quality and amenities

High-quality office space is a key selling point. Clients are willing to invest in premium environments that align with their brand. A law firm in Bristol praised the premium feel of the space, which impressed clients and supported employee engagement.

To attract employees back to the office, businesses now require a blend of private areas for focus, open spaces for collaboration, and bookable, tech-enabled meeting rooms. As LHI Group put it: “Orega gives us everything we need to thrive.”

Privacy is also essential. Bucks & Berkshire Recruitment previously had to install their own soundproofing in other offices. At our Marlow location, they now enjoy purpose-built, soundproof offices that protect sensitive conversations.

Demand for private phone booths has also grown due to the rise of video calls. We’ve made these a staple of our newer centres and are retrofitting older sites based on client feedback. These have been particularly popular among professional services.

Comfort and control

To encourage office attendance, employers must offer a comfortable environment. Bucks & Berkshire Recruitment noted the importance of details – like individual climate control – so staff aren’t left overheating or freezing based on someone else’s preferences.

Clients also appreciate our breakout areas and top-tier amenities. At our Lime Street (pictured) and Strand locations, features like gyms, restaurants and rooftop terraces add extra appeal.

As Jo Cooper, MD of Bucks & Berkshire Recruitment, put it: “At our previous office, there were reasons people didn’t want to come in. Now we have reasons they do- helping us work like a team.”

Hospitality-level service

The hospitality-style service offered by Orega is another strong differentiator. From the move-in process to tailored office setup – including branding and IT – clients appreciate the hands-on support. On-site managers and welcoming front-of-house teams add a level of professionalism that clients value when hosting visitors.

As one client summarised: “With cleaning, coffee, water, and maintenance all taken care of, we’re free to focus on our work without distractions.”

Flex space is clearly meeting evolving business needs. At Orega, we’ll continue to prioritise our clients’ needs as we further expand our services across the UK.

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