Despite what you may read in the press, the UK property market is alive and well, to the extent that many office tenants are being evicted to make way for residential developments. It’s a trend first noted in back in 2016, when the Department for Communities and Local Government revealed there was a marked increase in ‘change of use’ applications, with almost 13,000 offices converted into flats during a 12 month period.
Office blocks often enjoy town centre locations and here lies the value. As well as landmark buildings, such as Centre Point in London, more unremarkable 1960s office blocks in places such as Croydon and Barnet are ripe for conversion. After all, the shell is already there and it’s, therefore, a matter of space reconfiguration and a commercial office fitout.
It’s a trend that shows no sign of abating, thanks to ambitious house building targets and permitted development rights. So where does this leave the humble office tenant? The prospect of relocating is very real, with landlords and office owners keen to capitalize, turning boardrooms into bedrooms along the way.
MPL Interiors offers a full consultation service with commercial office design ideas and ‘concept to completion’ project management for companies who may be forced to look for new premises. Our workplace audits will assess your current office set up and budget, and balance this with your company size and future goals for relocation purposes.
We see premises through layout and design eyes, using smart space planning and fitting strategies to get the most out of every square foot. We often amaze clients with big plans for small spaces, which frequently allow businesses to rent or buy cheaper offices and also enjoy more a more productive, well-organised workplace.
Contact us if you have been given notice on your current office, or if your long-term plans involve new commercial office interiors – we can create an exciting opportunity from a potential negative.
