The Office Market Has Changed - So Have Your Options
The past few years have reshaped how companies approach office space. Hybrid work, evolving employee expectations, and the need for agility have made choosing the right office model a key strategic decision. But which one is best for your business? Here’s how to navigate the three main options: commercial lease, coworking, and managed office.
1. Commercial Lease: Control and Customisation
Best for: Established companies with long-term visibility and specific workspace requirements.
A commercial lease gives you full control over your space - from design to operations. It's ideal for businesses ready to invest in custom-built environments and commit over the long term. But with that autonomy comes responsibility.
Pros:
- Total control over layout and branding
- Lower long-term cost per workstation
- Best suited for HQs and regulated industries
Consider:
- High upfront costs (CapEx)
- Long commitment (typically 6–9 years in France)
- Slower to implement, less flexibility
2. Coworking: Speed andFlexibility
Best for: Startups, small teams, or businesses in transition.
Coworking offers ready-to-use space with short-term contracts, ideal if you need to move fast or scale up and down with ease. It also provides access to a community and shared amenities, but at a premium.
Pros:
- Quick move-in, fully serviced
- Flexible terms from weeks to months
- One monthly bill, no CapEx
Consider:
- Less privacy and control
- Higher cost per workstation
- May not suit sensitive or regulated activity
3. Managed Offices: The Best of Both Worlds?
Best for: Mid-sized or fast-growing companies wanting customised space with minimal operational burden.
Managed offices offer a hybrid model: a private office fitted and operated for you, with a fixed monthly price and contract flexibility. It combines customisation with convenience - ideal for businesses seeking a tailored environment without CapEx headaches.
Pros:
- Tailored office space without CapEx
- Fixed, predictable monthly pricing
- Faster delivery than traditional leases
Consider:
- Higher monthly cost than a lease
- Standard or customised operator's service levels
- Contracts generally range between 2–5 years
Choosing the Right Model
There’s no universal answer. Your choice depends on:
- Business growth and visibility
- Budget (CapEx vs. Opex)
- Speed to occupancy
- Operational capacity
- Confidentiality and compliance requirements
At Squareful, we help occupiers define their real estate roadmap, explore market options, and select the right solution—be it leased, flex or hybrid.
Need help choosing the right model?
Let’s talk. We’ll help you compare costs, evaluate flexibility, and build a workspace strategy tailored to your business.
