Design
All ideas
View by collection:
Construction

Office refurbishment or office relocation: which is right for your organisation?

Author:

01
August 2024
Clock
4
min read

If your organisation is planning an office transformation, you have two key options to consider:

  1. Stay and refurbish your office
  2. Move to a new location

The right solution will be different for every organisation, but to help answer your questions, and guide your decision-making process, we’ve compiled a list of FAQs. 

When is the right time to consider an office refurbishment or office relocation?

The right time to consider an office refurbishment or office relocation is when your business is undergoing change.

You might be expanding or downsizing your workforce, rebranding, changing business models or experiencing a significant shift in your organisation’s needs or goals.

Mapping out the core reasons for change will give context and ensure the data you go on to collect is focused on the areas that will have the most impact.


80% of employees say that the workplace environment has an impact on their productivity.

Leesman Index, "Workplace effectiveness research," 2021

How do you determine if an office relocation is necessary?

An office relocation may be necessary if your current location no longer meets the needs of your organisation. This could be due to your organisation growing and needing more space, wanting to attract new talent, poor location, or changes in your business strategy.

88% of employees said the location of their workplace affects their decision to accept a job offer.

Kisi, "The State of the Modern Workplace Report," 2021

How do I calculate how much office space I need?

Leveraging workplace data can form a more complete picture of your space requirements and employee needs.

Workplace analysis, such as space utilisation studies and gathering employee feedback, will help define how your current space is being used, identify areas for improvement, and make data-driven decisions that can improve operational efficiency, employee satisfaction and overall business success. 

Is relocating more expensive than refurbishing an office? 

An office refurbishment or relocation will impact your business in a number of ways, so refurbishing is not always the most cost-effective solution.

The cost can quickly add up, especially if you have to do extensive work. And you might find an office with a more favourable lease, which would be more cost-effective in the long run.

Take the time to weigh up the short and long-term benefits, as well as the associated costs before making any decisions.  

How much does an office relocation cost?

The expenses associated with office relocation vary based on factors such as lease costs, potential downtime, moving expenses, renovations and repairs, and employee relocation costs.

How much does an office refurbishment cost?

A workplace analysis will prioritise the most important changes to your business and people. You can then outline the costs associated with each opportunity, as well as the expected return on investment.

The true cost of your refurbishment or move will be based on the long-term benefits you stand to gain.

A reinvented workplace for Dr. Oetker

Before the pandemic, average desk occupancy at Dr. Oetker was at 50%, so we knew there was scope to re-evaluate and optimise the space. Initially, we supported the management team in their plans to move to a newly developed area of Thorpe Park – but when the pandemic caused delays in the building development, we explored the option of reinventing their existing building.

To reimagine the potential of Dr. Oetker’s office, we had to gain a deeper understanding of their culture, needs and vision. This consultancy work, which included a detailed building and structural review, staff surveys and engagement workshops, outlined their desired outcomes, challenges and possibilities.

This process allowed Dr. Oetker to think about their existing office as a new canvas to draw on – and ultimately guided their decision to stay put.

A fresh start for DLG

After deciding to relocate to central London, Direct Line Group approached us to help define two key parameters. What kinds of work settings did they require? And how much office space did they need?

We carried out an in-depth consultation in which we analysed Direct Line Group’s data concerning post-pandemic occupancy levels, the creative needs of their teams, and their business goals. This enabled us to make evidence-based recommendations in line with their defined change trajectory.

We also helped the team source their new premises – two floors of Riverbank House, with stunning views of the Thames and The Shard.

If a business needs more, or less, space, what are the alternatives to relocating?

If you have more space than you need, it might make financial sense to lease out part of your office rather than relocate. If you need additional space, consider exploring co-working solutions, taking up extra space within your existing building, or adding a mezzanine level to your current office. 

According to a study by Instant Offices,

The average cost of a co-working desk in the UK is £319 per month, while the average cost of a private office is £449 per month.

Instant Offices, 2021

When is it the right decision to stay?

You may want to consider staying in your current building if you’re happy with your location, have a good deal on your property lease, and have the flexibility to adapt and accommodate change. 

What are the drawbacks of an office refurbishment?

Depending on the extent of the refurbishment, it may not be possible to achieve everything your organisation wants in terms of design, layout and location. It may also be difficult to carry out refurbishment work while employees are still working in the space. However, this can be achieved with sensible phasing, integrated activation and a plan for managing change effectively during the project disruption.

When is the best time to move?

If you’ve outgrown your office, need a smaller space or want to reduce costs and have exhausted all options in your current property, it may be time to move. It’s important to ensure relocating will better serve your employees, customers, talent pools and business objectives.

What are the drawbacks of relocating?

It can take time to adjust to a new environment, and there may be issues with staff retention if the new location is not convenient for them. Involving staff in the change management process will help address concerns, minimise disruptions and ensure a smooth transition to a new location. 

How can I decide whether to refurbish or relocate?

The decision to refurbish or relocate an office space is not one to be taken lightly and will depend on your organisation’s budget, the extent of the changes required and your employees’ preferences. If you need advice on what to do with your office space, and the best course of action, our team can help guide you through the process. 

Get in touch

Want to know more about how to ensure you make the right call for your organisation?

Get in touch today to speak to arrange a chat with our experts.

Download for free now

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

SHARE

Office refurbishment or office relocation: which is right for your organisation?

Author:

01
August 2024
Clock
4
min read

If your organisation is planning an office transformation, you have two key options to consider:

  1. Stay and refurbish your office
  2. Move to a new location

The right solution will be different for every organisation, but to help answer your questions, and guide your decision-making process, we’ve compiled a list of FAQs. 

When is the right time to consider an office refurbishment or office relocation?

The right time to consider an office refurbishment or office relocation is when your business is undergoing change.

You might be expanding or downsizing your workforce, rebranding, changing business models or experiencing a significant shift in your organisation’s needs or goals.

Mapping out the core reasons for change will give context and ensure the data you go on to collect is focused on the areas that will have the most impact.


80% of employees say that the workplace environment has an impact on their productivity.

Leesman Index, "Workplace effectiveness research," 2021

How do you determine if an office relocation is necessary?

An office relocation may be necessary if your current location no longer meets the needs of your organisation. This could be due to your organisation growing and needing more space, wanting to attract new talent, poor location, or changes in your business strategy.

88% of employees said the location of their workplace affects their decision to accept a job offer.

Kisi, "The State of the Modern Workplace Report," 2021

How do I calculate how much office space I need?

Leveraging workplace data can form a more complete picture of your space requirements and employee needs.

Workplace analysis, such as space utilisation studies and gathering employee feedback, will help define how your current space is being used, identify areas for improvement, and make data-driven decisions that can improve operational efficiency, employee satisfaction and overall business success. 

Is relocating more expensive than refurbishing an office? 

An office refurbishment or relocation will impact your business in a number of ways, so refurbishing is not always the most cost-effective solution.

The cost can quickly add up, especially if you have to do extensive work. And you might find an office with a more favourable lease, which would be more cost-effective in the long run.

Take the time to weigh up the short and long-term benefits, as well as the associated costs before making any decisions.  

How much does an office relocation cost?

The expenses associated with office relocation vary based on factors such as lease costs, potential downtime, moving expenses, renovations and repairs, and employee relocation costs.

How much does an office refurbishment cost?

A workplace analysis will prioritise the most important changes to your business and people. You can then outline the costs associated with each opportunity, as well as the expected return on investment.

The true cost of your refurbishment or move will be based on the long-term benefits you stand to gain.

A reinvented workplace for Dr. Oetker

Before the pandemic, average desk occupancy at Dr. Oetker was at 50%, so we knew there was scope to re-evaluate and optimise the space. Initially, we supported the management team in their plans to move to a newly developed area of Thorpe Park – but when the pandemic caused delays in the building development, we explored the option of reinventing their existing building.

To reimagine the potential of Dr. Oetker’s office, we had to gain a deeper understanding of their culture, needs and vision. This consultancy work, which included a detailed building and structural review, staff surveys and engagement workshops, outlined their desired outcomes, challenges and possibilities.

This process allowed Dr. Oetker to think about their existing office as a new canvas to draw on – and ultimately guided their decision to stay put.

A fresh start for DLG

After deciding to relocate to central London, Direct Line Group approached us to help define two key parameters. What kinds of work settings did they require? And how much office space did they need?

We carried out an in-depth consultation in which we analysed Direct Line Group’s data concerning post-pandemic occupancy levels, the creative needs of their teams, and their business goals. This enabled us to make evidence-based recommendations in line with their defined change trajectory.

We also helped the team source their new premises – two floors of Riverbank House, with stunning views of the Thames and The Shard.

If a business needs more, or less, space, what are the alternatives to relocating?

If you have more space than you need, it might make financial sense to lease out part of your office rather than relocate. If you need additional space, consider exploring co-working solutions, taking up extra space within your existing building, or adding a mezzanine level to your current office. 

According to a study by Instant Offices,

The average cost of a co-working desk in the UK is £319 per month, while the average cost of a private office is £449 per month.

Instant Offices, 2021

When is it the right decision to stay?

You may want to consider staying in your current building if you’re happy with your location, have a good deal on your property lease, and have the flexibility to adapt and accommodate change. 

What are the drawbacks of an office refurbishment?

Depending on the extent of the refurbishment, it may not be possible to achieve everything your organisation wants in terms of design, layout and location. It may also be difficult to carry out refurbishment work while employees are still working in the space. However, this can be achieved with sensible phasing, integrated activation and a plan for managing change effectively during the project disruption.

When is the best time to move?

If you’ve outgrown your office, need a smaller space or want to reduce costs and have exhausted all options in your current property, it may be time to move. It’s important to ensure relocating will better serve your employees, customers, talent pools and business objectives.

What are the drawbacks of relocating?

It can take time to adjust to a new environment, and there may be issues with staff retention if the new location is not convenient for them. Involving staff in the change management process will help address concerns, minimise disruptions and ensure a smooth transition to a new location. 

How can I decide whether to refurbish or relocate?

The decision to refurbish or relocate an office space is not one to be taken lightly and will depend on your organisation’s budget, the extent of the changes required and your employees’ preferences. If you need advice on what to do with your office space, and the best course of action, our team can help guide you through the process. 

Get in touch

Want to know more about how to ensure you make the right call for your organisation?

Get in touch today to speak to arrange a chat with our experts.

Download for free now

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Office refurbishment vs office relocation hero image

SHARE

If your organisation is planning an office transformation, you have two key options to consider:

  1. Stay and refurbish your office
  2. Move to a new location

The right solution will be different for every organisation, but to help answer your questions, and guide your decision-making process, we’ve compiled a list of FAQs. 

When is the right time to consider an office refurbishment or office relocation?

The right time to consider an office refurbishment or office relocation is when your business is undergoing change.

You might be expanding or downsizing your workforce, rebranding, changing business models or experiencing a significant shift in your organisation’s needs or goals.

Mapping out the core reasons for change will give context and ensure the data you go on to collect is focused on the areas that will have the most impact.


80% of employees say that the workplace environment has an impact on their productivity.

Leesman Index, "Workplace effectiveness research," 2021

How do you determine if an office relocation is necessary?

An office relocation may be necessary if your current location no longer meets the needs of your organisation. This could be due to your organisation growing and needing more space, wanting to attract new talent, poor location, or changes in your business strategy.

88% of employees said the location of their workplace affects their decision to accept a job offer.

Kisi, "The State of the Modern Workplace Report," 2021

How do I calculate how much office space I need?

Leveraging workplace data can form a more complete picture of your space requirements and employee needs.

Workplace analysis, such as space utilisation studies and gathering employee feedback, will help define how your current space is being used, identify areas for improvement, and make data-driven decisions that can improve operational efficiency, employee satisfaction and overall business success. 

Is relocating more expensive than refurbishing an office? 

An office refurbishment or relocation will impact your business in a number of ways, so refurbishing is not always the most cost-effective solution.

The cost can quickly add up, especially if you have to do extensive work. And you might find an office with a more favourable lease, which would be more cost-effective in the long run.

Take the time to weigh up the short and long-term benefits, as well as the associated costs before making any decisions.  

How much does an office relocation cost?

The expenses associated with office relocation vary based on factors such as lease costs, potential downtime, moving expenses, renovations and repairs, and employee relocation costs.

How much does an office refurbishment cost?

A workplace analysis will prioritise the most important changes to your business and people. You can then outline the costs associated with each opportunity, as well as the expected return on investment.

The true cost of your refurbishment or move will be based on the long-term benefits you stand to gain.

A reinvented workplace for Dr. Oetker

Before the pandemic, average desk occupancy at Dr. Oetker was at 50%, so we knew there was scope to re-evaluate and optimise the space. Initially, we supported the management team in their plans to move to a newly developed area of Thorpe Park – but when the pandemic caused delays in the building development, we explored the option of reinventing their existing building.

To reimagine the potential of Dr. Oetker’s office, we had to gain a deeper understanding of their culture, needs and vision. This consultancy work, which included a detailed building and structural review, staff surveys and engagement workshops, outlined their desired outcomes, challenges and possibilities.

This process allowed Dr. Oetker to think about their existing office as a new canvas to draw on – and ultimately guided their decision to stay put.

A fresh start for DLG

After deciding to relocate to central London, Direct Line Group approached us to help define two key parameters. What kinds of work settings did they require? And how much office space did they need?

We carried out an in-depth consultation in which we analysed Direct Line Group’s data concerning post-pandemic occupancy levels, the creative needs of their teams, and their business goals. This enabled us to make evidence-based recommendations in line with their defined change trajectory.

We also helped the team source their new premises – two floors of Riverbank House, with stunning views of the Thames and The Shard.

If a business needs more, or less, space, what are the alternatives to relocating?

If you have more space than you need, it might make financial sense to lease out part of your office rather than relocate. If you need additional space, consider exploring co-working solutions, taking up extra space within your existing building, or adding a mezzanine level to your current office. 

According to a study by Instant Offices,

The average cost of a co-working desk in the UK is £319 per month, while the average cost of a private office is £449 per month.

Instant Offices, 2021

When is it the right decision to stay?

You may want to consider staying in your current building if you’re happy with your location, have a good deal on your property lease, and have the flexibility to adapt and accommodate change. 

What are the drawbacks of an office refurbishment?

Depending on the extent of the refurbishment, it may not be possible to achieve everything your organisation wants in terms of design, layout and location. It may also be difficult to carry out refurbishment work while employees are still working in the space. However, this can be achieved with sensible phasing, integrated activation and a plan for managing change effectively during the project disruption.

When is the best time to move?

If you’ve outgrown your office, need a smaller space or want to reduce costs and have exhausted all options in your current property, it may be time to move. It’s important to ensure relocating will better serve your employees, customers, talent pools and business objectives.

What are the drawbacks of relocating?

It can take time to adjust to a new environment, and there may be issues with staff retention if the new location is not convenient for them. Involving staff in the change management process will help address concerns, minimise disruptions and ensure a smooth transition to a new location. 

How can I decide whether to refurbish or relocate?

The decision to refurbish or relocate an office space is not one to be taken lightly and will depend on your organisation’s budget, the extent of the changes required and your employees’ preferences. If you need advice on what to do with your office space, and the best course of action, our team can help guide you through the process. 

Get in touch

Want to know more about how to ensure you make the right call for your organisation?

Get in touch today to speak to arrange a chat with our experts.

Tune in
Keep up to date with the latest workplace ideas, projects and news