Insights

We often talk about what makes the “best office”, but to appreciate the positives, it’s important to understand some of the common nightmares that can turn a workspace into a disaster. Some of these might not seem like deal breakers or major concerns at first, but after a year in that office, you’ll wish you had paid more attention. Here are the top 10 workspace nightmares to avoid when searching for your next office:

1. No Natural Lighting

At first glance, relying on artificial lighting might not seem like a big issue. However, during the dark winter months, artificial light can take a toll on your workforce’s physical and mental health. Natural light should be a top priority when choosing an office space. Exposure to sunlight throughout the day not only boosts mood but also helps regulate sleep patterns, keeping employees healthier and more productive. 1 in 20 people suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), which can be exacerbated by a lack of sunlight. And since many people in the U.K. work from 9am – 5pm, during the winter months, they may miss out on daylight altogether if the office has no or poor natural light – leaving you with a team that’s never fully energised and possibly depressed.

2. 1M Desk Space

Maximising your office space is important, but that doesn’t mean cramming a 60+ workforce into a 30-desk office. Your employees aren’t chickens in a pen. They need room to think clearly in an open environment that encourages positive thought patterns. Adequate desk space is essential for both mental well-being and productivity. When people have room to breathe and move, they can focus better and perform at their best.

3. Small Breakout Areas (or Worse, One Small Breakout Area)

Your breakout space is just as important as your main work area. It’s where your employees can unwind during lunch or chat with colleagues about non-work topics. If the breakout area is too small or cramped, employees will either end up eating at their desks or going out to eat all the time, neither fosters a positive work environment

4. Lack of Privacy

Let’s talk meeting rooms, focus areas, and phone booths. These are essential for privacy and functionality. Giving your employees the space to focus on key tasks without distractions promotes productivity. Privacy is also a must for 1-2-1 meetings. Not every conversation should be overheard by the whole office, and doing so can distract others from their work. Phone booths are especially important, whether in B2B or B2C industries. How can you expect your team to connect with clients or make important arrangements in a noisy, shared space?

5. Choosing an ‘Empty’ Location

Location is essential for your next office, especially in a big city like London. There are two main reasons for this: 1. Convenient transport links ensure your workforce isn’t constantly late or pushing for remote work structures. 2. Having local eateries nearby gives employees options for lunch (no one wants to be stuck with the same Tesco meal deal every day).

6. Unreliable Air Conditioning

We’ve spoken about the need for natural light in winter, but let’s not forget about reliable air conditioning for those hot summer days. You’re going to work, not a sauna. Good air ventilation and reliable air conditioning is essential to employees being able to carry out their work effectively. Look for buildings with newly installed A/C that will be under warranty and will work for many years ahead.

7. Lift in Permanent State of Disrepair

Having a fully functional lift is crucial, especially if you’re promoting an inclusive environment. If an employee or interviewee is unable to use the stairs, a working lift ensures they feel included and have equal access to the workspace. DDA compliance, as outlined in the Disability Discrimination Act 1995 in the UK, makes this clear: Lifts are essential to providing equal access to public buildings, commercial spaces, and more.

8. Unreliable Wi-Fi

A poor wi-fi connection will leave your workforce frustrated and likely to push for remote work. Any job that involves technology relies on fast, reliable wi-fi. If your office has an unreliable internet connection, employees will waste a good portion of their day waiting for the internet to kickstart again. This not only limits productivity but also results in wasted salary costs.

9. Unresponsive Landlord/Provider

Whether you are in a serviced, managed or leased office, this problem applies to all. Say if you suddenly have a leaky roof issue, you need to have a source to report this to. If you have an unresponsive landlord or provider this can lead to great frustration that trickles from top to bottom. Look for the red flags when meeting your new provider or landlord: 1. Are they late to initial meetings? 2. Do they seem unbothered by concerns and enquires you raise with them before signing the lease agreement? 3. Are they just overall giving too much of a relaxed vibe for someone you are meant to rely on? Remember, with traditional leased space, your contract will vary from 3-10 years so don’t give yourself a headache for potentially the next decade.

10. Noisy Neighbour

In any situation, whether that is at home, on public transport or yes, in the office, having a noisy neighbour is extremely frustrating and could lead to potential conflict – not something that you want during your workday. Make sure that you speak with your landlord/office provider about your new immediate neighbours. Find out their industries and history of in-office conduct.

There you go, this is our top 10 office nightmares to avoid. Having control over these variables early on will ensure happy employees, minimal conflict and a smooth workflow. Another factor to consider is consulting with a Commercial Real Estate Agency (like us) who have extensive experience with these nightmares and can warn you where the red flags are.

If you are reading this, and are currently struggling with unreliable conditions, then don’t hesitate to reach out – we have seen it all!  

Written by Olivia Hunt