In an ever-changing market, deciding what type of office space to let in Birmingham can feel overwhelming. With economic uncertainty, changing working patterns and fluctuating headcounts, many businesses are asking the same question: how do we future-proof our workspace while keeping flexibility to pivot if needed?
As flexible office space continues to grow in popularity, occupiers often find themselves asking – what actually is flexible office space, and how does it differ from traditional space? With working patterns evolving and business needs changing more quickly than ever, understanding the differences is key to helping businesses make more confident workspace leasing decisions.
Below, we take a closer look at both flexible and traditional office space in more detail, breaking down how they compare and the advantages each can offer depending on your business needs.
Flexible office space
What is flexible office space?
Flexible office space offers businesses a ready-to-occupy space with simplified costs and adaptable lease terms. Unlike traditional offices that often require a lengthy fit-out and longer lease agreements, flexible space is designed to reduce time, cost and complexity.
Typically delivered as a Cat A+ fit-out, flexible offices come fully furnished and set up for immediate use, allowing occupiers to move in quickly and focus on running their business rather than managing a build. Many of the core services and utilities are included within a fixed monthly cost, providing greater budget certainty and fewer ongoing financial demands.
Leases are also designed to offer greater agility, with built-in break options that allow occupiers to respond to change without being tied into rigid agreements.
Who is flexible office space best for?
Flexible office space is particularly well suited to SMEs and growing businesses that need a professional, private workspace without the commitment or complexity of a fully traditional lease. It works well for:
- Businesses seeking a move-in ready solution with minimal setup time
- Companies wanting cost certainty, with key services and utilities included
- Teams anticipating changes in size or structure
- Organisations relocating, expanding, or establishing a new office base
- Businesses that want their own self-contained and branded office environment
For occupiers who value speed, flexibility and simplicity, but still want the stability of their own self-contained office, flexible office space offers a practical middle ground between co-working and traditional office space.
Traditional (conventional) office space
What is traditional office space?
Traditional, or conventional, office space is typically let on a standard commercial lease, often for a longer commitment of three to ten years or more. Unlike flexible office solutions, occupiers are usually responsible for funding and delivering their own fit-out, with the workspace provided as a Cat A shell ready for customisation.
Occupiers also manage and pay separately for rent, service charges, utilities, and any cleaning or maintenance within their space. Fit-out programmes can take several months, often three to six, before a business can move in, making traditional space more suitable for companies with long-term plans.
Who is traditional office space best for?
Traditional office space is often the best option for:
- Established businesses
- Multi-site occupiers
- Companies with stable headcounts
- Organisations seeking full control over their workspace
While less flexible than other options, traditional office space offers the opportunity to create a highly bespoke working environment, often delivering better long-term value for businesses committed to a single location.
Finding the right office solution
At Livery Place, we understand that no two businesses are the same. Whether you’re looking for fully fitted flexible space, or traditional open-plan suites on conventional lease terms, our aim is to recommend the solution that best aligns with your space requirements and business plans. If you’re exploring office space in Birmingham and want guidance on the best option for your business, get in touch.