In 2020, the pandemic thoroughly shook up our lives. Working from home became the rule and even now, hybrid working remains possible in a lot of companies. The consequences for the real estate market are not trivial. Companies downsize their office space and a lot of square metres become available. Time for a new purpose, but as an owner or developer, how do you make your premises attractive to potential tenants again?

Create a strong community in no time

In the new way of working, experience is the key to success. At Soulbricks, we fully opt for a redefinition where there is room for focused work, relaxation and meeting each other. The best way to do this is by transforming a part of the building into a community where people feel welcome. 

That is what we achieved in O-Forty, a property of no less than 25,000 square metres. When drawing up the plans, we advised the property developer to design the Business & Meeting Centre with community building in mind. A space with room for a communal reception, a coworking space, meeting rooms equipped with the latest presentation techniques, break-out rooms and a communal kitchen. 

Each space is ergonomically designed and focuses on well-being and comfort. The result is an inspiring environment that boosts productivity and optimally supports activity-based working.  

A meeting centre pays for itself

Initially, you make the property as a whole attractive by redefining only a small part of your total area. In fact, the meeting centre acts as a marketing tool to make the other floors faster to rent out. Look at SkylinE40, for example. A beautiful building that was vacant for several years after completion. By creating a community on the ground floor, the building revives from top to bottom.

Secondly, potential tenants do not have to invest in all kinds of technological innovations or meeting rooms that are only used sporadically themselves. A meeting centre offers them flexibility, which is hugely attractive in the new way of working. Moreover, workspace management is possible. Each company can fully focus on its core business by using shared services such as a cleaning team, IT expert or receptionist.

Finally, it turns out that you can charge more rent per square metre if you manage to create a community such as a coworking or business centre. This way, you still manage to increase your returns while companies downsize their office space. 

Need expertise to get the maximum return from your premises? The Soulbricks team is happy to get to work for you. Contact us for a meeting.