WHY BUSINESSES RETHINK THEIR OFFICE SPACE
The working environment directly impacts employee well-being, productivity, and brand image. Here are common reasons companies consider a workplace transformation:
- Rapid business growth or downsizing due to limitations
- Shift to a hybrid working model and allow versatility throughout the workspace
- Lease expiry or changes in tenancy
- Improvement of energy efficiency rating
- Collaboration and staff morale improvements
A growing number of companies are also recognising that the physical office is a strategic tool. Beyond just housing operations, it can attract talent, support innovation, and reinforce organisational culture. The question is: how do you decide whether to reinvest in your current space or start fresh elsewhere?
OPTION 1: REFURBISHING YOUR OFFICE
What is Office Refurbishment?
Refurbishment means reimagining your current workspace without changing location. This could involve updating interiors, optimising layouts, installing new furniture, or enhancing acoustics and lighting, all aimed at improving performance and experience. Refurbishment can range from cosmetic upgrades, like new finishes and fixtures, to comprehensive reconfigurations.
Key Benefits
1. Cost Control & Flexibility
Refurbishments can be tailored to fit a range of budgets, from CAT A fit-outs for landlords that are looking to create a blank canvas for new tenants, to CAT B full-scale redesigns. Whilst we approach each client differently, we offer flexible, cost-effective options to cater for your business model.
It is difficult to give an exact cost to a Cat A Fit Out per square foot, but, depending on the standard required a typical cost per square foot would be around £30 to £70.
Minimal Disruption
With expert planning and phased delivery, your team can continue working throughout the project without any distractions, minimising your day-to-day operations.
Enhanced Staff Morale and Experience
We remain on-brand, keeping office culture and reinforcing brand awareness. This way, your team will be in a familiar environment, with a refreshed and improved aura, comfort and amenities. Familiarity often boosts retention and morale.
4. Space Optimisation
Redesigning your space can unlock underused areas and introduce modern workplace features like quiet pods, breakout areas and collaboration zones.
5. Sustainability Gains
Refurbishing rather than relocating reduces waste and carbon emissions. Using sustainable materials and energy-efficient upgrades can support your ESG goals. To further support this effort, consider reusing furniture and materials in the initial strip-out, which can often have a monetary value.
Limitations
- Existing infrastructure may have limitations and could restrict what is and isn't achievable
- Location-related challenges, if they exist
If your business requires significant structural changes or if the limitations of your building are preventing progress, refurbishment may not be the best approach. It’s also not a cure-all for deeper strategic issues related to location, branding, or client accessibility.
OPTION 2: RELOCATION OF YOUR OFFICE
Office Relocation, What Does it Involve>
Relocation is a move to entirely new premises. While it's a more involved process, it presents an opportunity for a complete reset — ideal for businesses seeking growth, transformation, or enhanced brand presence.
Key Benefits
1. Room to Grow
A relocation allows you to select a space that accommodates future expansion and evolving team needs. Depending on the location, it may also provide an offering to evaluate rent costs across an x-mile radius.
2. Better Location
Moving to a prime location can improve access to clients, partners, and top talent, as well as visibility within your sector. Prime locations throughout the UK include: London, Canary Wharf, Bristol, Manchester, Southampton and Birmingham.
3. Modern Amenities
Newer offices offer high-spec facilities: custom design features, smart lighting, upgraded climate control, interactivity and sound, modern and up-and-coming technology, biophilic design features and flexible zones for independent work and collaboration.
Customisable Design
A fresh start means you and your team can design your space entirely around your current culture. We work with you closely to understand your wants, needs and desires, working styles, with a deep understanding of brand identity and culture.
5. Operational Efficiency
Upfront costs can be high, but a well-selected office could bring long-term savings through better lease terms, lower energy use, and improved space efficiency. Many rented office spaces are well equipped with renewable energy sources such as EV charges, Solar Panels and recycling schemes.
Challenges
- Initial investment in moving, fitting out, and settling in
- Staff Disruption and mitigating the initial adjustment period
- Commuting challenges for existing employees
Businesses must also consider the softer impacts of a move: disruption to team dynamics, brand continuity, and potential relocation costs for key personnel. Successful moves depend on clear communication and change management support.
COMPARISON TABLE: REFURBISHMENT VS. RELOCATION
| FACTOR | REFURBISHMENT | RELOCATION |
|---|---|---|
| COST | Budget-friendly and scalable | Higher upfront investment |
| TIME & DISRUPTION | Phased, with minimal downtime | Requires temporary disruption |
| SPACE FLEXIBILITY | Limited to current premises | Total freedom to choose size/layout |
| STAFF IMPACT | Preserves routines, high continuity | May affect morale or retention without support |
| FACILITIES | Can be upgraded within existing structure | Access to latest infrastructure |
| LOCATION | No change | Opportunity to move closer to strategic hubs |
| SUSTAINABILITY | Lower environmental footprint | Depends on building efficiency |
HOW SPECTRUM CAN SUPPORT YOU
Whether you’re considering a refurbishment or a full relocation, Spectrum Workplace offers end-to-end support. We help you identify the right solution through:
- Workplace consultancy and needs analysis
- Space planning and interior design
- Turnkey fit-out services
- Project and move management
- Furniture specification and installation
We work closely with you to create a workspace that supports growth, boosts engagement, and reflects your values.
Every business is different. That’s why we begin with a deep understanding of your goals, team, and space. Our consultants will work with you to evaluate every angle — budget, lease, operations, and culture — to shape a solution that sets you up for long-term success.
CONCLUSION: MAKE A STRATEGIC CHOICE
Your workplace is more than just a location — it’s a tool for performance, recruitment, and brand positioning. Whether you stay and refurbish or move to a new office, the key is aligning your space with your long-term strategy.
If you're still unsure which route is right for your business, seek professional guidance. The right partner will provide not just creative ideas, but objective insights to help you weigh risk and reward. Let Spectrum Workplace help you navigate the decision with clarity and confidence.