Why Flex Office Space Isn’t Always the Best Solution

There’s no denying the appeal of flexible office space. For many businesses, especially those exploring new markets, launching a new venture, or navigating uncertain times, flex space offers a lifeline: move-in-ready offices, short-term commitments, and the ability to scale up or down as needed. In London, the rise of hybrid work and economic uncertainty has only accelerated this trend, with flexible workspaces now accounting for a significant share of new office take-take up in 2025.

But is flex space really the best solution for everyone, especially in the long run? We’ve spent years helping organisations find their perfect workspace, and we’ve seen too many firms, large and small, default to flex space, often at the urging of brokers who stand to earn generous commissions. The result? Many are paying a premium for a "one-size-fits-all" environment that may not truly serve their people, their brand, or their bottom line.

The Hidden Costs of Long-Term Flex Space

Let’s be honest: flex space is rarely cheap. In London’s most desirable locations, premium serviced offices can command rents of £150 per sq ft or more, far outpacing the cost of a traditional lease or a well-negotiated sublease. For short-term needs, that premium might be worth it. But for companies settling in for the long haul, those costs add up, often without the benefit of a space that truly reflects your culture or supports your team’s wellbeing.

And it’s not just about money. When you choose flex space, you’re also choosing someone else’s vision of what an office should be. The layout, the lighting, the amenities, even the scent in the air, these are all decisions made by the operator, not by you or your people. For some, that’s a relief. For others, it’s a missed opportunity to create a workplace that inspires, supports, and nurtures your team.

What Brokers Don’t Always Tell You

It’s no secret that many brokers receive higher commissions for placing clients in flex space. That can create a subtle (or not so subtle) bias in the options you’re shown. What’s often left off the table? The world of short-term subleases and end-of-lease deals, spaces that can often be picked up at a fraction of the normal rent, and which can be customised to suit your needs.

In today’s London market, there’s a surprising amount of "hidden gem" space available. And it's not just for huge companies! Even small businesses can benefit from a tailored lease or sublease, saving a fortune compared to long-term flex space. With vacancy rates for Grade B and C offices still high, and many landlords eager to fill space, it’s possible to negotiate flexible terms, generous incentives, and even bespoke fit-outs, often for less than you’d pay for a cookie-cutter flex office.

And don't think these opportunities are limited to lower-grade buildings. Subleases and assigned part-leases can even be found in premium buildings like The Shard or the Blue Fin.

The Power of Customisation and Wellbeing

A truly great office is more than just desks and WiFi. It’s a place where your people feel seen, supported, and inspired. That’s why we always start with workplace strategy, understanding your team’s needs, your company culture, and your business goals.

Here’s how we help you create something stunning for a fraction of the price:

• We understand: We begin by diving deep into your organisation, understanding your unique needs and aspirations.
• We search and negotiate: We work with our licensed partners to find those hidden opportunities and negotiate the best possible terms on your behalf.
• We fit out, reconfigure, and furnish: Our design and build team transforms your chosen space into a vibrant, functional environment that reflects your brand and supports your work.
• We add a touch of wellness: Our dedicated wellness team integrates elements that promote employee wellbeing and create a healthier, happier workplace.

Whether it’s biophilic design, quiet zones for focus, or spaces that encourage movement and connection, a tailored office can make a world of difference for morale and mental health. Our wellness team focuses on everything from air quality to ergonomic design, because we believe that a healthy office is a productive office, and that’s something you rarely get in a generic flex space.

And if managing the office is something that puts you off, we can even offer a facilities management service to keep everything running optimally. For a small monthly fee, we can take care of all those things you don't want to think about: cleaning, replacing lightbulbs, unblocking the toilet, even dealing with the landlord for you. We can make it painless.

There Is a Better Way

If you’re feeling boxed in by the options you’ve been shown, know that there are alternatives. At Future of the Office, we specialise in uncovering those hidden opportunities, whether it’s a short-term sublease, a landlord eager to negotiate, or a space that’s ready for a bespoke transformation. Our services span the full journey: from office search and workplace strategy, to design and build and ongoing wellness support. And we do it all with your people, your brand, and your budget at heart.

If you’re ready to explore what’s possible, let’s talk. Your next office could be more affordable, more inspiring, and more "you" than you ever imagined.