Finding the perfect office space is essential for the growth and efficiency of any business. With a range of options available, from leased to serviced and managed office spaces, understanding which is the best fit for your company can make all the difference. In this article, we will explore the costs, standards, policies, and various types of office spaces in the UK, and explain how you can find the right office space for your business needs through IBC.
Office Space Costs in the UK
When it comes to the cost of office space in the UK, several factors come into play. The location, type of office, and size all contribute to the price you’ll pay. In cities like London, office space can be quite expensive, but more affordable options are available in suburban areas and smaller cities. Typically, office space in London costs are calculated per square foot, and prices can vary significantly based on the area.
For example, renting an office in Central London can cost anywhere from £30 to £100+ per square foot annually. In comparison, office spaces in Manchester, Birmingham, or Leeds tend to be much cheaper, with prices ranging from £15 to £40 per square foot.
What Is the Space Standard for Offices in the UK?
The UK has specific guidelines that influence the space allocation for offices, particularly in terms of the number of employees per square foot. The British Council for Offices (BCO) has set standards for office spaces that businesses are encouraged to follow. A general rule of thumb is to allocate between 100 to 150 square feet of office space per person, depending on the nature of the work and the facilities provided.
These guidelines aim to ensure that employees have enough space to work efficiently while maintaining health and safety standards. The guidelines also take into account factors like desk spacing, meeting rooms, and common areas. For example, open-plan offices tend to require less space per person, whereas private offices or workstations might need more room.
What Is the UK Space Policy?
The UK’s space policy is shaped by several governmental and professional bodies that work together to provide clear regulations for office space usage. This includes safety codes, accessibility standards, and energy efficiency targets. Businesses must comply with these policies to ensure they operate legally and provide a safe environment for employees.
One significant aspect of the UK space policy involves sustainability. As part of the government’s effort to reduce carbon emissions, office buildings are required to meet energy performance standards. This includes maintaining a certain level of insulation, energy-efficient lighting, and other environmentally-friendly practices.
How Much Office Space per Person in the UK?
On average, the space allocated to each employee in the UK is between 100 to 150 square feet. However, this varies depending on the type of business and office setup. For example, a technology firm that uses open-plan spaces might allocate 100 square feet per person, while a legal or financial firm that requires more private workstations might allocate closer to 150 square feet per employee.
Other factors influencing space allocation include the company’s culture, the use of collaborative areas, and the available budget for office rent. For companies looking for flexibility, co-working spaces offer a more dynamic approach, with desk sharing and more efficient use of space.
Searching the UK to Find Your Next Office
If you’re looking for office space in the UK, you have many options to explore. Whether you’re a small start-up or a large corporation, there are various platforms and agencies to help you find the perfect office location.
You can search online for office spaces in cities such as London, Manchester, or Birmingham, using platforms like IBC to find your next office. These platforms allow you to filter by location, size, and cost, making it easier to find an office that meets your needs.
Use IBC to Get Your Office Space
At IBC, we provide a wide range of office spaces tailored to your business needs. Whether you’re looking for a private, bespoke office or a flexible serviced office, IBC offers options to suit companies of all sizes. Our office spaces in London are designed to provide the flexibility you need to grow your business while ensuring you have all the necessary tools and services to succeed.
Leased Offices: Tailored to Your Business Needs
Our leased offices are perfect for companies that want to design and manage their own space. You can choose an unfurnished office that allows you to customise the layout and design, giving you full control over the space. Our leases come with a minimum 12-month contract, and you have the flexibility to upscale or downsize as your business grows.
If you’re looking for a partner to share office space, we can help you find the perfect office share option to meet your needs. This is a cost-effective solution for businesses that want the benefits of office space without the burden of managing everything alone.
Serviced Offices: Ready-to-Move-In Spaces
Our serviced offices are ideal for companies that need a fully furnished, ready-made private space. These offices come with everything you need to get started, including furniture, high-speed internet, and phone lines. With contracts starting from just 6 months, these serviced offices offer a flexible option for businesses looking for short-term solutions.
We offer a pay-per-desk rate, giving you the flexibility to scale up or down as needed. The serviced offices also come with an all-inclusive option, where rent, service charges, insurance, and utilities are combined into one fixed cost. No hidden fees, no surprises.
Managed Offices: Hassle-Free Office Solutions
For businesses that want a more comprehensive service, our managed offices offer an all-in-one solution. These private, bespoke offices are designed and managed by our in-house team, so you can focus on growing your business while we take care of the details.
The monthly fee covers everything, including rent, fit-out costs, and any additional services you may need. With no upfront costs, you can get started immediately, and we’ll ensure your office is equipped with everything from Wi-Fi to daily cleaning services.
Office Services at IBC
We go beyond just providing office space. At IBC, we offer a variety of additional services to ensure your business runs smoothly:
- 24/7 Access to Building Facilities: You can access your office at any time, day or night, making it easier to work around your schedule.
- On-Site Property Team and 24/7 Security: Our dedicated team ensures the security and upkeep of your office space, giving you peace of mind.
- Cycle Storage and Lockers: For those who prefer cycling to work, we offer secure bike storage and lockers for your convenience.
- Secure Car Parking: If you’re driving to the office, we provide secure parking spaces for your vehicle.
- On-Site Gyms and Changing Facilities: Stay active during your workday with access to on-site gyms and changing rooms.
- Fitness Classes: Enjoy fitness classes, including Les Mills, at select locations.
- Events Programme: We host a range of events to help you network, learn, and grow your business.
Why Choose IBC?
Choosing IBC for your office space needs means getting more than just a place to work. We provide a wide range of services to support your business, from flexible lease terms to comprehensive managed office solutions. With 24/7 access, secure facilities, and a variety of additional services, you’ll have everything you need to succeed.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a start-up looking for flexible space or an established business needing a fully managed office, IBC offers the right solution for you. Our leased, serviced, and managed offices provide the flexibility, support, and services you need to grow your business.
Start your journey with IBC today and find the perfect office space for your business. Visit today https://www.ibc.co.uk/services/office-space/
