U.K. Office Landlords Expect 54% Rise in Flexible Workspace Demand by 2030

U.K. landlords anticipate a significant increase in demand for flexible workspaces across the country, expecting a 54% rise by 2030, with many planning to redesign or retrofit buildings to meet tenant needs.

Over the past couple of years, remote and hybrid work have become permanent fixtures in the workforce, and now U.K. landlords are expecting the demand for flexible and coworking workspaces will rise 54% by 2030.

Property Week reported on a recent survey commissioned by infinitSpace, revealing that 36% of office space is currently dedicated to flexible or coworking uses. The survey found that 10% of all the surveyed landlords predict that by 2030, their portfolios will consist almost entirely (91-100%) of flexible spaces — a dramatic rise from the current 3%.

The survey, which included responses from 250 U.K. office landlords, adds to the notion that there is a clear move towards flexibility and adaptability across the country.

The data aligns with similar findings published by Workthere, which show that demand for flexible office space in the U.K. has surged dramatically in the past year, with a year-over-year rise of 14% in the first half of 2024 — a 206% increase in inquiries compared to pre-pandemic levels in 2019.

The fast-rising demand for flexible workspaces represents a significant development in how U.K. office spaces are utilized, designed, and managed. U.K. survey data also reflects a broader international shift towards flexibility and adaptability in the commercial real estate sector.

To meet this soaring demand and cater to tenant needs, IFA Magazine reports that over half (52%) of the surveyed office landlords believe that their buildings will need to be redesigned or retrofitted.

For many landlords, redevelopment strategies are seen as critical for properties to adapt for the future of work. It’s reported that 59% of the surveyed landlords state that converting traditional office spaces into flexible work environments is a key part of their plan to stay competitive and align with market trends.

The findings highlight growth in the U.K.’s flexible workspace sector and the proactive steps landlords are taking to accommodate and capitalize on these market changes. As the demand for flexible and coworking spaces grows, the future of work in the U.K. appears increasingly adaptable and tenant-focused.