Case Study: Academic Appointments

Case Study:
Pass

What to Consider When Moving Offices: Serviced vs Leased

Co-CEO Oliver Naylor, from Pass Learn, has shared his experience of scaling at a rapidly growing education business. Providing insight into the lessons learned while navigating the transition from serviced office space to leased office environment.ce to the teamโ€™s space usability and company culture.

Before exploring the key considerations behind moving offices, it is worth briefly introducing the business behind the blog. Pass was founded in Harrogate in 2016 to improve educational outcomes in math and English through technology-led learning.

Today, through Pass Learn, we help adult learners change careers through online math, English and Access to HE Diploma courses. Many of our learners are looking to progress into careers such as nursing, teaching and other specialist industries, meaning growth and scalability have always been central to the business.

As the business expanded, we eventually reached a point where our office space could no longer support the team structure and culture we were trying to build. Having recently gone through the process of moving offices ourselves, we thought it would be useful to share some of the key things businesses should consider when deciding between serviced and leased office space.

Building 5 External 9

Outgrowing a Serviced Office

For almost 10 years, Pass operated from a serviced office environment. Initially, it worked extremely well for us. Serviced offices offer flexibility, simplicity and reduced operational responsibility, which is ideal for smaller businesses.

The challenge we faced was that the building was designed primarily for businesses with teams of 1 to 10 staff. As we grew, we expanded into additional units over time until we eventually occupied nine separate offices within the same building.

Whilst this allowed us to continue scaling for several years, it gradually created challenges around communication, collaboration and team culture. Different departments became physically separated, and it became harder to maintain the unified working environment we wanted.

The final tipping point came when a single team within the business was about to be split between two separate office spaces. At that stage, we knew we needed to seriously evaluate alternative options.

Serviced Office vs Leased Space

This prompted us to properly compare serviced office space against taking on a leased office. During this process, we realised there are very different types of serviced office providers.

Our previous space had fixed office footprints, which made expansion increasingly difficult as the business grew. Growth often meant taking on additional disconnected units rather than adapting the workspace around the team structure.

We also explored providers such as WorkWell, where the approach felt far more collaborative and flexible for growing businesses, balancing headcount, culture and operational efficiency.

One of the biggest motivations behind the move was recruitment and retention. Our previous office location was positioned on the edge of town, which made commuting by train or on foot more difficult for staff. As businesses grow, access to talent becomes increasingly important, and transport links play a major role in that decision-making process.

Because we had spent so long operating from serviced offices, we understood the obvious benefits they offer:

  • Minimal setup
  • Predictable costs
  • Managed facilities
  • Reduced administrative burdens
  • Flexibility to scale gradually

What we did not fully appreciate was how involved a move into leased office space would become.

The Hidden Costs of a Leased Office

When we initially reviewed the top-level numbers, leased office space appeared to make obvious economic sense. However, as the project progressed, it became clear that the cost gap between serviced and leased space was far smaller than we had originally budgeted for.

In many cases, it may actually make stronger commercial sense for a growing business to remain within a high-quality serviced office environment, irrespective of the other operational benefits.

There is a wide range of additional setup, operational and hidden costs that businesses should factor into any leased office evaluation before making a decision.

When factoring in additional costs, some obvious ones spring to mind when moving from serviced to leased office space. Furniture is one example, but the reality is that setup costs quickly expand far beyond simply purchasing desks and chairs.

As you begin fitting out a larger leased office, countless operational items need to be considered, including:

  • Furniture assembly and installation (most people have experience assembling IKEA furniture, but scaling that across 70 desks and chairs quickly becomes a major logistical exercise. The alternative is paying significantly more for pre-assembled furniture or installation services)
  • Office removals and logistics relocation
  • Packaging disposal and waste removal
  • Kitchen equipment and appliances
  • Coffee machines and refreshment areas
  • Communal breakout furniture
  • Meeting room and interview room setup
  • Drinks fridges and staff facilities
  • Delivery coordination across multiple suppliers

Many of these costs are relatively small in isolation, but collectively they become significant. For a team of around 70 staff, we quickly realised there were thousands of pounds of additional setup and operational expenses that had not been fully captured in the original cost analysis.

Alongside the initial setup costs, there are also several ongoing operational costs that become your responsibility in a leased space, including:

  • Cleaning costs
  • Utilities, particularly once heating and air conditioning are factored in
  • General maintenance and upkeep outside of structural landlord responsibilities
  • Internet and leased line costs
  • Office consumables and kitchen supplies
  • Security systems
  • PAT testing, fire safety compliance and other health & safety requirements
  • Repairs and replacement of office equipment and furniture
  • Waste collection and recycling

These are the types of costs that are often largely absorbed within a serviced office agreement but become much more visible once you operate your own leased premises.

Legal Fees and Stamp Duty

Office leases above certain thresholds can attract Stamp Duty Land Tax, something we had not fully accounted for during the initial budgeting phase.

There were also legal fees associated with negotiating the lease, drafting agreements for lease (AFL), particularly where fit-outs are involved. This then incurs fees for fit-out approvals and building compliance.

Costs which can accumulate quickly and are often underestimated during early planning discussions.

Internet and Connectivity Challenges

One of the most underestimated parts of moving offices is internet connectivity.

Many businesses temporarily rely on 5G internet solutions whilst waiting for a leased line installation. Whilst this can work in the short term, it is rarely a stable long-term solution for businesses heavily reliant on cloud systems, video calls and online platforms.

The biggest challenge is that leased line installations rely on multiple parties working together. Whether thatโ€™s coordinating with the landlord, internet provider, infrastructure suppliers such as Openreach or Virgin Media, or building maintenance teams and external contractors

The industry average for leased line installation is often quoted at around three months, but there are many stories of businesses waiting six to nine months, or even longer, before connectivity issues are fully resolved.

The difficult part is that no work can usually begin until the lease has officially been signed. This means businesses are often committing to move-in dates without knowing when their permanent internet connection will actually go live.

For an online-first business like Pass Learn, this became one of the biggest operational risks within the entire move process.

Carrwood Green Space 7

One of the biggest differences between serviced and leased office space is that a leased office can effectively become a blank canvas.

Whilst this creates opportunities to design a space around your culture and workflow, it also means every detail becomes your responsibility.

We found ourselves making decisions on things we had never previously needed to think about, namely :

  • Office layout
  • Meeting room positioning
  • Acoustics
  • Power distribution
  • Internet infrastructure
  • Ethernet port locations
  • Kitchen facilities
  • Breakout spaces
Carrwood Green Space 6

The level of detail involved was far greater than we initially anticipated, and all of it ultimately costs time and money.

In a well-operated serviced office environment, you often have the flexibility to reshape the space and move walls as your team evolves, without needing to manage or contribute towards every minor detail of the fit-out yourself.

Moving offices is a significant milestone for any growing business, and there is no one-size-fits-all solution.

Serviced offices can offer enormous advantages during the early growth phase of a company. However, as headcount increases and operational complexity grows, there can come a point where businesses may consider a leased office as their next move. At the same time, leased spaces come with additional responsibilities, hidden costs and project management requirements that should not be underestimated.

For us at Pass Learn, we were fortunate that market conditions were favourable, and we negotiated an exceptionally competitive lease agreement. Even with that, however, the additional costs mounted up far more quickly than we initially anticipated.

Looking ahead, further expansion beyond our current space will almost certainly involve another serviced office environment. Although we have not taken space with WorkWell to date, their input throughout our office search was informative, collaborative and genuinely helpful, which is what motivated us to contribute to their blog.

As we continue to grow, we look forward to continuing those expansion discussions with the support of the WorkWell team.

From Decision to Move-In: Managed Office Timeline (with a Week-by-Week Plan)

From Decision to Move-In: Managed Office Timeline (with a Week-by-Week Plan)

Moving into a new space can be unpredictable; this timeline aims to demystify the process and give you a better sense of timelines ahead of making a move. While the following timeline is very common, there are instances where we can accelerate the process in urgent circumstances.

Equally, for larger organisations where there are perhaps several stakeholders or a more complex approval process, our timelines can be paced accordingly.

Step 1: Choosing the right office space –

Many businesses can and will attest that finding the right office can be one of the most time-consuming aspects of the process. Touring multiple spaces without a clear understanding of how they will support your team or day-to-day operations can quickly become overwhelming.

But we know that finding the right space shouldnโ€™t be so complicated.

The process should feel easy, working through a checklist that does the qualifying for you. From there, taking a tour or booking a free trial day can help you properly assess whether the space works before committing.

Hereโ€™s a checklist we know can help you lock in the right space:

  • ย Location: Is it accessible, desirable and reflective of the company image and culture?
  • Size and layout: Does it fit your team and accommodate growth, and are there breakout spaces
  • Budget: Is it within your budget, and are utilities, cleaning, maintenance and internet included?
  • Working environment: Does the space feel welcoming, professional and representative of your brand?
  • Flexibility and terms: What are the notice periods and lease lengths?
  • Security and accessibility: Are the building hours suitable for your operational hours? Is there secure access?

Step 2: Signing off on your contract โ€“ Week 1-2

Once youโ€™ve found the right location, the process for securing a tenancy begins.

During this period, we draw up a contract, tailoring it to include any additional services, office requirements or details relating to the chosen space and length of tenure.

Depending on your needs, the drafting process may vary, as contracts may need to be adjusted to better reflect potential space usersโ€™ requirements.

This is also the best time to raise any questions or concerns. Before signing, itโ€™s important that you fully understand any break clauses, lease terms and repair obligations outlined within the agreement.

This process can take anywhere from a couple of days to a couple of weeks. This will depend on whether the contact needs any alterations or if youโ€™re happy to proceed and sign straight away. We provide remote contract signings, but can coordinate in-person contract signings when necessary for the member. We aim to accommodate and provide a frictionless experience.

Step 3: Office configuration and technical set-up โ€“ Week 3

With a traditional office setup, coordinating removal companies, sourcing furniture and managing additional setup costs can quickly become expensive and stressful. With WorkWell, much of that process is already handled.

Our serviced offices are immediately fit-for-purpose. Before your move-in date, weโ€™ll coordinate with you to finalise layout preferences, storage requirements, and any branding or signage youโ€™d like to be incorporated into the space.

We take care of the setup in advance so that your transition is ensured to be seamless. Allowing you and your team to stay focused on business operations rather than office logistics.

Step 4: Collecting the keys & settling in โ€“ Week 4

The process of looking around and showing interest, to receiving your keys, typically takes around a month, but it can vary depending on the company. In most instances, our members will have an ideal date in mind, which we are able to work with the appropriate amount of notice.

In circumstances where new members may need a space, but their office isnโ€™t fully set up, we may be able to offer a temporary office solution.

Once the keys are ready, youโ€™ll be invited into the office where your front-of-house will hand over the keys and help to familiarise you with your new office environment. This is the time for you to settle in, moving any additional dรฉcor or furnishings to complete the set-up of your new office.

Tips for settling into your new space

We always encourage new members to familiarise themselves with the site in the first couple of days. You can do this by:

  • Taking the opportunity to see the environment and identify spaces which can be used, i.e. Zoom pods, the kitchen, as well as any outdoor space
  • Saying hello to the faces you see in these communal areas can help with the settling process
  • Joining us in our community events

Why rent office space with WorkWell?

Our priority is providing an exceptional member experience from the get-go. We donโ€™t just provide office space, we curate environments that support productivity, flexibility and employeesโ€™ well-being.

How AI Is Reshaping Professional Services Workspaces

AI in the Performance Workspace can drive productivity gains, but it often also creates new spatial, operational and human costs that workplaces end up having to absorb. Visible workspace trends are being accelerated with AI implementation.

These impacts produce hidden costs for service users in flexible work environments like WorkWell. We continuously look at how we can be part of the solution, rather than complicating or creating more hurdles.

The Hidden Costs of AI Adoption for Workspace Users

 The problems that often present with AI introduction into productive workflow include:

  1. Unpredictable, potentially volatile space usage

One of the many things AI has become useful for is the automation of tasks that include repetitive data processing, researching and administrative tasks. This has a direct influence on team structures, resulting in a destabilised occupancy pattern.

For flexible/serviced office users, this can lead to:

  • Short-notice changes in team sizes
  • Fluctuations in desk usage
  • Strong reliance on short-term spaces like day office, co-working and meeting rooms
  • Increases demand for collaboration

Where time is saved automating tasks like data processing, more time is needed to be spent collaboratively to review, strategise, and interact with clients. With an increasing effort to coordinate collaborative sessions, we anticipate a growing need for breakout spaces, meeting rooms, collaborative zones, and short-term, high-turnover spaces.

  • An expectation for AI integration into workspaces

The more AI becomes embedded in daily workflows, the more the demand increases for spaces to be equipped to handle AI use. That means secure and high-speed internet, seamless video and hybrid collaborative tools, as well as AI-enabled meeting and productivity systems (conferencing equipped with AI note taking).

  • New security and compliance pressures across shared workspaces

Integrating AI into workflows also requires data security and compliance. Utilisation runs a higher risk of sensitive protected data being fed into non-secure AI engines across shared networks and devices.

Security becomes a core feature, rather than an IT afterthought.

  • Hidden costs shift onto workspace users

While AI can help reduce some operational costs, it can also introduce new and indirect costs in flexible office environments. Which could present as:

  • An increased reliance on bookable premium spaces
  • Ongoing need for training and workflow adjustments to accommodate AI use
  • Higher competition for shared resources

AI is shaping the way workspace is valued, used and priced within serviced office, co-working and day office environments. As workstyles evolve to become faster, more collaborative, and more digitally dependent, our workspaces must evolve too.

Transitioning spaces from having static utility into a dynamic system that better supports flexibility, coordination, and technological integration.

Hybrid work, RTO vs hybrid vs remote, and how office models support that

What is hybrid work?

Hybrid work is a type of work model that sees staff work both in an office and remotely, often from home, a cafรฉ or even a co-working environment. While still coming together in a physical workplace when collaboration, connection or focus is needed.

Hybrid arrangements vary for every business; some operate with set office days, while others have more autonomy to decide where they will work from. All with the common goal to balance flexibility with meaningful in-person interactions.

What is RTO?

RTO is an acronym for โ€˜Return to Officeโ€™, which is used when describing the transition from remote or hybrid work to working in an office environment. Introduction often strengthens collaboration, engagement, and culture.

Return to office strategies aim to reconnect teams within a shared environment, whilst redefining the role the office has for businesses.

What is remote?

Remote work is a style of work where individuals arenโ€™t required to work in a central office alongside their team. Instead, this can be from home, or alternative locations like a desk in a co-working space; it entirely depends on the individual and workplace.

How does serviced office space support the RTO?

Serviced and managed office spaces offer flexibility that traditional offices could never provide.

There are several ways that serviced office space serves a return-to-office agenda.  Lower costs allow the budget to be efficiently allocated. This prevents resources like space, energy and money from being ineffectively used. This ensures that any money spent is aligned with the usage of the space.

Serves hybrid workforces by acquiring office space which is shaped around the needed use of the environment. Providing a professional environment for staff when itโ€™s needed, rather than the usage being dormant.

This type of office allows businesses to create hubs for various regions,  allowing for the setting up of smaller teams across the country, rather than having fewer offices with more staff in them. Not only is it convenient for staff, but it also enables the business to tap into talent pools from all regions rather than being confined to just one.

It offers complete convenience, from aspects like setting up the office space to more mundane tasks like maintenance. It cuts out the faff around returning to the office, as everything is taken care of, so companies can channel all their energy into business operations.

Serviced offices are designed with an elevated style, blending comfort and convenience to create desirable environments to be in. Usually exceeding what businesses are able to achieve in a traditional office environment without major overhead costs.

The advantages of businesses shifting from remote to RTO

Returning to work serves many businesses with a back-to-work agenda, allowing them to tap into many benefits, which include:

  • An increased sense of motivation, productivity and inspiration
  • It fosters a sense of community within the company culture, which can be lost when staff arenโ€™t consistently interacting with their peers
  • Improved employee wellbeing, promoting socialisation
  • It allows staff to achieve a better work -life-balance by separating their personal space from their work one
  • Creates opportunities for collaboration that otherwise donโ€™t necessarily happen

How WorkWell supports businesses with contemporary models

Our spaces are designed with intention, so every business that inhabits the space can channel their most productive selves. Each space is built with consideration for well-being and efficiency, from the natural light bathing each space to more specific elements like ergonomic furnishings. c

Our diverse range of services is designed to meet businesses at every stage, from short-term needs such as day desks and professional spaces for remote work, to fully equipped meeting rooms for performance discussions, as well as longer-term solutions including co-working and serviced office contracts.

We work to support members who want to embed into a community and space where individuals in businesses can thrive, by making sure our spaces cater to the constantly evolving needs of members.

Contact us today to explore our various Yorkshire-based locations for the best managed office space experience. Weโ€™ll dot the Iโ€™s and cross the Tโ€™s so that members can integrate into their new work environment effortlessly, creating a workplace that makes return-to-office days more engaging and supports hybrid working with ease.


 [NW2]*Productive

Employee Engagement: How to Foster Belonging in the Office

Whilst an office should always serve as a practical and professional space, there are ways to create a comfortable, cosy, and inviting environment- reminiscent of how we feel at home. After all, the office can be perceived as a home away from home.

Making the office feel like an approachable space isnโ€™t just about the furnishings that soften the aesthetic; itโ€™s also about the culture of the team working in it. Weโ€™ve compiled a list of ways to create a sense of belonging for the staff in your office.

Physical touches to warm an office environment

1. Furniture

Utilising soft furnishings is a great way to create more relaxed settings within your office, think a cosy ready nook for lunch breaks or research sessions. Sofas with cushions in your brand colour palette, and wall art that brings life to the walls in the space.

When utilising art or furniture, try to draw design elements that create a sensory experience with your brand. Doing it through colours, materials, textures, and styles. This creates cohesion in your design, and it allows your environment to reflect your brand in subtle ways. 

Using practical storage solutions like coat hooks, bag nooks, and umbrella stands allows staff to comfortably settle into the work environment. Also, keeping their desk space and additional office areas clutter-free.

The environment we work in is vital in shaping our experience, inspiring a sense of togetherness through considered interior design.

2. Plants

Utilising decorative elements in a considered manner that feels professional, yet welcoming, helps create the feeling of an inviting space. Incorporating plants into the room offers mental and physical health benefits, along with brightening the space and injecting energy into the atmosphere.

3. Fragrance

Sensory experiences often play a big role in the day-to-day comforts of our lives, from scented candles to incense. Whilst these arenโ€™t practical or safe in a commercial setting, utilising diffusers is a great way to incorporate scents into the environment.

4. Lighting

Lighting can influence our experience of an environment, so itโ€™s important to utilise lighting to create experiences that serve different purposes. For instance, lamps being used in more informal breakout areas can help soften the aesthetic and make it feel cosier.

Whilst a bright, white overhead light can help replicate the feeling of sunlight in darker corners of an office during the winter months, when daylight hours are much shorter. Where possible, however, we recommend utilising every bit of natural sunlight to illuminate the room.

Creating a workplace culture that feels like home

Workplace culture is everything; think of it as the feeling your business creates for employees working there. This includes making staff feel like they belong there, that they are encouraged to be their best, improving well-being and creating experiences that improve the well-being of belongings.

Creating a sense of purpose is a big draw for employees to feel comfortable and part of a community. As such, itโ€™s a key part of making the office have a warm and open atmosphere.

If youโ€™re looking for an office environment that balances out warm and welcoming design with a professional and clean aesthetic, we might be the right choice for you. We can work with you to ensure your office feels effortlessly inviting so it fits perfectly for you and your team.

How to attract your team to the office with a hybrid model

For workforces adopting the hybrid work approach, flexibility is a key advantage, giving employees the choice of when they work in the office and remotely. Whilst flexibility is valued, thereโ€™s real value in creating an environment that employees prefer to work from.

The focus is no longer on creating office days, but on creating environments that naturally attract staff.

How to attract teams using hybrid work models

Managed office spaces offer many perks. For the hybrid workforce, it can enhance the work experience.

1.      Office design and activity-based working

The design of the working environment plays a crucial role in motivating and encouraging employees to work in an office. A major benefit of managed office spaces is the various work zones allocated for different styles of working. Whether that be open-plan collaboration areas, quiet spaces like Zoom pods for solo sessions, or social spaces like outdoor seating and communal kitchens, where connection is made tangible.

Different spaces and services can cater to the evolving needs of a business and the individual preferences of employees. Each space is carefully designed to maximise ease and function for users. Ergonomic furniture improves the experience of staff, ensuring theyโ€™re comfortable whilst working.

Design is incredibly influential on employee wellbeing; a naturally well-lit office can help create work environments that keep members enthused. Utilising plants is another great design method for improving staff wellbeing through thoughtful environment design.

2.      Collaboration

Creating opportunities for collaboration is another driving factor in attracting employees. Working together can strengthen rapport, promote innovation and improve efficiencies. Some of the ways you can do this are by:

  • Utilising co-working spaces
  • Hosting workshops
  • Mentoring opportunities
  • Team days
  • Set collaborative goals
  • Networking opportunities

3.      Culture & socialisation

One of the biggest draws of attracting employees is to create a culture that people want to be a part of. One aspect of that is creating opportunities to socialise. Work takes up a great portion of our lives, so being able to enjoy it is crucial to making people want to work in the office rather than remotely.

Culture starts by setting out the company values and behaviours which will shape the experience of workers. Some values we believe are essential for attracting staff are:

  1. Ensure thereโ€™s inclusion and diversity
  2. ย Create opportunities to build trust
  3. Find opportunities to inspire, and share them
  4. Encourage feedback
  5. Reward positives, whether that be achievements or behaviours
  6. A problem shared is often a problem halved. Donโ€™t be afraid to find solutions as a team

Ultimately, a team that is confident and comfortable communicating and that wants to present indicates a strong workplace culture.

Why WorkWell is the ideal solution to office-first hybrid models

WorkWells offices are designed to make the days in the office a rewarding experience, from the modern design and comfortable furnishings to our prime locations and vibrant community. We provide an adaptable environment, designed to serve the members using it, and guaranteed to promote productivity and reduce, if not eliminate, inefficiencies.

If your hybrid workforce is looking for an environment that attracts employees to work in the office, donโ€™t hesitate to contact us to explore your options and create a bespoke contract.

Flexible workspaces: Deciding Between Day Offices, Dedicated Desks and Co-working

Flexible workspace for all businesses

At WorkWell, we offer three types of workspace solutions: day offices, co-working spaces, and dedicated desks.

Day-offices, dedicated desks and co-working spaces are professional serviced environments, which operate uniquely, offering different types of office spaces for various working needs.

 Co-working spaces, often referred to as hot-desking, are open-plan offices allocated for businesses to work within. This style of working allows businesses to work alongside others, network and reap the benefits of a professional space at a fraction of the cost.

Day offices, on the other hand, are private office spaces that are available for short-term rental.  These rooms offer a private, dedicated space for businesses to operate within without distraction.

Private space

Dedicated desks combine elements from both types of workspaces, typically accommodating individuals and smaller teams in a shared-private office. An ideal choice for those wanting a fixed desk in an office environment, whilst creating a sense of community that co-working offers.

When a day office is the practical option

Day offices are ideal for teams that need to get together temporarily. Unlike a meeting room, this space is set up with workstations to plug and play. An ideal solution for hybrid and project-based teams looking for a short-term base.

Ergonomic furniture and smart storage solutions in our clean and well-designed offices are designed for productive and efficient working. Built-in conferencing capabilities remove the hassle of bringing your own equipment, perfect for a fast setup.

Our spaces are secure, which means our returning members can rest assured knowing any items kept within their day office remain safe. Each space blends comfort with convenience, promoting efficiency and productivity, tangible results and a real-time impact on the quality of output from a business.

When a co-working space is the most suitable option

Co-working is a fantastic option for entrepreneurs, businesses and freelancers seeking a tidy, nice, professional working environment, with opportunities to network and connect with other people.

Our co-working settings are perfect for those wanting an office-like environment. The ability to use the space as and when needed makes it ideal for those who adopt hybrid-work models or part-time office workers.

Our co-working spaces have numerous allocated seats, which may be acquired by various teams, which means our members will likely have the opportunity to meet other co-working members. We promote a collaborative atmosphere, increasing the chance for individuals to connect with other professionals.

When a dedicated desk is the ideal solution

Dedicated desk strikes a balance between the benefits of co-working and day offices, allowing small teams to have a dedicated space within a private office made up of other businesses.

This model of work allows our dedicated desk members to enjoy the privacy of an office, whilst still having the opportunity to network with other members. This is an effective long-term solution for those who only need one or two desks rather than a full private office.

Ready to find the right fit?

If youโ€™re exploring the flexibility of a co-working space, the consistency of a dedicated desk, or a short-term base from a day office, contact us, and weโ€™d be happy to discuss your business needs. We can help you explore the most practical office, as well as provide a tour of the facilities upon request.

How Adjustable Contracts in Serviced Offices Support Business Agility

Serviced offices, by design, offer far greater flexibility than leased spaces, with shorter terms and ease of moving and simpler contract setups. At WorkWell, we ensure our serviced office comes with flexibility, allowing our members to adapt to change in real time whilst avoiding being locked into a rigid contract.

What makes a flexible contract valuable for a business?

Flexibility is ideal when seeking out an office contract. It affords businesses the agility to adapt, pivot, and scale your environment to their business needs, ultimately giving them a competitive edge in a consistently evolving landscape.

A flexible contract can be useful for reducing costs by limiting overhead spending by merging all the costs into one flat fee. This not only saves budget but can make the set-up process efficient as there arenโ€™t lots of contracts needing to be set up.

Those opting for a managed office space are able to tap into an already established community, which in turn increases networking opportunities. This is something that rivals the traditional office, as it makes the process of connection easier.

This type of contract empowers businesses to make decisions based on their current needs, rather than being locked into long-term contracts that donโ€™t serve them. Gone are the days of being trapped in an environment that isnโ€™t conducive to success.

Which contract features should you look for to stay agile?

What makes a great contact? Well, the key is a lot of things when there’s a balance struck. Your contract must meet your basic requirements, i.e.:

  • The cost
  • The duration of the lease
  • The notice period
  • The breadth of the services you can use
  • If business rates are included

The key to getting a contract that allows your business to stay agile in such a competitive market is to look for the following in your managed office contract:

  • How flexible the contract is, i.e. can it be changed during the contract or are you locked in
  • Benefits/perks of the space, i.e., WorkWell members can use all communal space indoor and outdoor with access to Zoom Pods, sound-insulated booths, refreshments and free parking.
  • If there are penalties for early contract termination

How does WorkWell make flexibility functional?

Most serviced office providers will give their members some flexibility, but at WorkWell we go beyond that. With the unique advantage of being able to scale mid-contract, we ensure our members’ workspaces serve them.

We accommodate these needs by adjusting the environment to the growth or reduction of the business, when necessary, providing smaller or larger office spaces to ensure the space is practical for the member.

Our fees are all inclusive, meaning only one bill goes out of the business account each month. All bills are streamlined at WorkWell, which means one flat cost for the rent, utilities, maintenance, and security is included within the leasing fee.

The approach we take is low commitment for the member, so whether it’s leasing a day office for a day or using our co-working spaces for a week. We make it easy to flex the contract, so you get the most out of the space and your money.

Could flexible contracts be the key to long-term success?

Absolutely, serviced office spaces with flexible contracts, like ours, are the bedrock of success. An adaptable contract flexes with your business, rather than restricting its capabilities. A major benefit, for instance, is the reduction in spending for leased office space. With members only paying what they need, theyโ€™re able to allocate more budget to their business, which can be a factor in creating success.

Thereโ€™s a lot of value in picking a provider that caters to your business’s needs not only in the present, but for the future too. Real-time adaptability is fundamental when offering flexible contracts.

If you think a managed office could be the right solution for you, donโ€™t hesitate to contact us to find out whether WorkWell is suited to you and your business needs.

Short-term professional solutions: Why choose WorkWell

What is short-term letting?

Why would a business potentially need or want professional service providers’ support during a short-term period?

Short-term letting is when a property is rented for a brief period, lasting anywhere between a few days to a couple of months, with the longest short-term let extending to 6 months. Long-term letting is typically qualified by renting for longer than 12 months.

Businesses can find themselves in a limbo, with no professional office, wondering whether to bite the bullet on the overhead costs of a privately let office. Thatโ€™s where we come in to provide an unrivalled serviced office experience, for a fraction of the cost of a traditional office.

What short-term letting solutions do WorkWell provide?

Day Offices

Day offices are the perfect option for businesses seeking a short-term solution to needing a professional, quiet environment for their team to work from. These spaces are kitted out the same as a traditional office with monitors, desks, and ergonomic chairs.

At WorkWell, we offer day offices for as little as a day to ensure any team needing a professional setting to work from has the space to do so. 

Co-working

Co-working is a type of working style which allows businesses to mix and work alongside other businesses and independent workers. This is done by creating a communal office environment without a seating plan.

At WorkWell, we offer day passes for those seeking out a tidy and inspiring environment to work from. This allows our members to tailor their contracts to their needs. Instead of having to rent a space for a chunk of time, and seeing the budget going to waste when the space isnโ€™t being used.

Meeting rooms

Meeting rooms in serviced office environments are particularly useful when you need a professional environment to host in, for a limited amount of time. Weโ€™re able to offer our meeting rooms at an hourly rate, providing a practical and affordable way to access a professional working environment.

Why utilising a professional service provider can benefit you in the short term?

Every business is unique, as are its operational needs. Whether it’s needing a meeting room to accommodate client visits or simply wanting a desk to work from for a day, at WorkWell, weโ€™ve got the facilities to accommodate.

Reduced costs

Renting a traditional office comes with its downsides, from the long set-up process to the hidden fees and major responsibilities. Bookable rooms with day pass and flexible co-working options ensure you only pay for what you are using.

Professional Impressions

Whether youโ€™re meeting with your remote-working team face to face, or taking on an important meeting, WorkWell provides your business with access to an environment that is a polished, fully equipped workspace, perfect for making a professional impression.

Networking opportunities

Itโ€™s a rarity to be able to engage with new local businesses outside of your own in a traditional office, but in a service office environment, the opportunity is there.  It fosters a sense of community within members and allows them to make connections they otherwise wouldnโ€™t have.

Continuity through transitional periods

Whether youโ€™re renovating, scaling, or relocating, short-term letting allows your business to keep operating with no downtime, keeping your operations stable and smooth.

Adjust as you need

Whether itโ€™s a desk for a week or a meeting room for a few hours, we make sure you can pick the services that suit your needs. This flexibility allows your business to operate as normal whilst being fuss-free.

Short-term professional intervention can offer stability and structure during times of growth or change. At WorkWell, we donโ€™t just provide a space; we create environments and contracts tailored to ensure individuals and teams thrive. Our solutions are curated to your goals, ensuring your business is able to remain professional and productive each step of your journey.

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A great workplace can transform health, happiness and productivity

Most people spend about 90,000 hours of their lives at work. Thatโ€™s nearly 45 years. It makes sense that the workplace can play a big role in our health. When designed badly, an office can add to stress, leading to burnout and making people feel worse, not better. Thatโ€™s a problem for both employees and employers.

Investing in your employees

The good news is that investing in a high-quality workplace yields significant benefits. When companies prioritise employee well-being, encompassing not only physical health but also mental and social well-being, the benefits are substantial. People feel better, and they take fewer sick days. Theyโ€™re more engaged and productive, which means companies perform better as well.

Research by the McKinsey Health Institute shows that investing in employee health could create between $3.7 trillion and $11.7 trillion in economic value worldwide. Thatโ€™s around $1,100 to $3,500 of value per person, or up to 55% of average annual pay. Most of that value, up to 77%, comes from improved productivity and reduced presenteeism. Thatโ€™s when people are at work but not able to work at their best.

Too often, businesses focus solely on visible costs, such as absenteeism. But those account for just a fraction of the opportunity. The hidden cost of people not working to their full potential is far higher. And thatโ€™s where a better workplace can make the biggest difference.

A healthier workforce benefits the business and lifts entire communities. Healthier workers are more likely to be involved in their local area, help others and lead fulfilling lives outside of work. Thatโ€™s why better workplaces are not only good business, theyโ€™re also good for society.

The pitfalls of employee health

Unfortunately, the current state of employee health is not where it should be. A global survey of more than 30,000 employees found that only 57% reported good overall health. Just under half, 49%, were โ€˜faring well’, meaning they had good holistic health and no symptoms of burnout. One in five reported signs of burnout.

Burnout is not the same as being tired after a long week. It includes exhaustion, feeling mentally distant from work, and a sense of being unable to cope. It affects people across every industry, although some are more severely impacted than others. Employees in accounting, retail, agriculture, shipping and the arts reported the lowest health and highest burnout levels. Even in the best-performing industries, fewer than three in four workers reported being in good health.

The situation is worse for certain groups, with women, LGBTQ+ individuals, younger employees, people with lower income or education levels, and those who are neurodivergent all reporting worse outcomes. These groups made up 80% of the survey respondents.

Designing office spaces for success

The design of the physical workplace plays a huge role in supporting wellbeing. At WorkWell, we have emphasised the proven value of natural light, indoor plants, quiet zones, and access to fitness facilities. Workspaces filled with sunlight and biophilic elements, such as greenery or nature-inspired textures, have been shown to reduce stress and boost cognitive performance. Employees who sit near windows get better sleep and report higher productivity. Plants not only purify the air but also create a more calming and restorative environment.

Equally important are quiet spaces and on-site fitness facilities. In open-plan offices, having a designated space to retreat to for focus or rest can significantly reduce stress. Physical activity, whether itโ€™s a lunchtime yoga class or a treadmill in the office gym, is directly linked to sharper thinking and an improved mood. When companies design environments that promote movement, reflection, and calm, theyโ€™re not just building officesโ€”theyโ€™re investing in human potential.

A high-quality workspace isnโ€™t just about better chairs or healthy snacks. Itโ€™s about the full work experience. That includes feeling safe, supported and respected. It means having leaders who genuinely care, clear roles and expectations, and a culture that fosters a sense of belonging and purpose.

The most successful employers take a systematic approach. They measure how people are doing. They test solutions and adapt based on data. They train managers to support wellbeing. They look beyond quick fixes and instead build a culture that supports long-term health.

There are plenty of examples to learn from. At the sportswear company On, an employee health programme led to a 30% drop in staff turnover, a 5% boost in productivity, and a $2.9 million a year savings, an 11.6x return on investment. At Ikea Canada, adding โ€˜Wellness Daysโ€™ helped reduce employee turnover from 35% to 24.5%. At Audi, voluntary health checkups led to high employee participation and long-term health benefits.

Final thoughts

Even small changes can have big results. Encouraging movement breaks, promoting mental health awareness or improving access to coaching can all help. What matters most is that health becomes a core part of how the workplace functions, not just an add-on or an afterthought. When work supports wellbeing, everyone wins. Employees are healthier and happier. Companies perform better. And society as a whole benefits.

Work shouldnโ€™t be something people have to recover from. It should be a place where they thrive. Investing in high-quality workspaces is one of the smartest things any business can do.