Let’s redefine how we think about work.

In the ever-evolving landscape of urban workspaces, the emergence of design-led smaller offices is redefining how we think about our places of work. This isn't merely a shift towards aesthetics over functionality; it's a profound transformation that marries form with purpose, creating environments that inspire as much as they accommodate. Coupled with the innovative concept of fractionalised rents, these spaces are not just offices; they are ecosystems designed for the modern workforce's diverse and dynamic needs.

Picture an office that feels less like a traditional workspace and more like a carefully curated environment, where every element, from the furniture to the lighting, is chosen to enhance creativity, productivity, and well-being. These are spaces where design isn't just a backdrop but a key player in the daily dance of ideas and interaction. They cater to teams of up to 50-60 people, ensuring that even at full capacity, there's a sense of intimacy and community often lost in larger corporate settings.

A NO HQ workspace near Oxford Circus.

The concept of fractionalised rents in the context of office spaces borrows from the innovative principles seen in the world of digital assets, like NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens), and shared ownership models in art. It’s a revolutionary approach that transforms traditional perceptions of office leasing, introducing a more flexible, inclusive, and democratic way to access premium workspaces.

A meeting room in our Oxford Circus workspace.

At its core, fractionalised renting involves splitting the cost and usage rights of an office space among multiple parties, each holding a 'fraction' of the tenancy. Much like how investors might purchase shares in a piece of valuable art, allowing them to own a part of something otherwise unattainable, businesses can secure access to prime office locations and high-quality, design-led environments without shouldering the full financial burden of a lease.

Here, it's crucial to address a common misconception—the idea of a "part-time office" being somehow less than a full-time space. This notion is both misleading and myopic. For many modern businesses, having a beautifully designed, fully equipped office space for three days a week perfectly aligns with their operational needs and should not be undervalued. This misconception arises from outdated work norms that fail to recognise the efficiency and productivity that can be achieved through flexible work arrangements. In reality, for some businesses, this model of office use is not just adequate but optimal, reflecting a full-time operational capacity within their specific context.

A bank of desks available to rent by the day in Oxford Circus.

Furthermore, the trend towards locating these offices in vibrant city areas adds another layer of appeal. Companies looking for an offsite location that combines work with leisure will find these spaces particularly attractive. Imagine concluding a productive day's work and then stepping out into the heart of the city, where the best of culture, cuisine, and entertainment is at your doorstep. It's an approach that recognises the importance of work-life balance and the role of environment in stimulating creativity and innovation.

Design-led smaller offices with fractionalised rents represent a forward-thinking solution to the challenges of the modern work environment. They embody a philosophy that values flexibility, community, and design, offering a workspace that is not just a place to work but a place to thrive. As this trend continues to grow, it promises to shape the future of how we think about and engage with our workspaces, making the act of work itself a more integrated, enjoyable, and human experience.

Written by Sanj Mahal, CEO of NO HQ.