How Serviced Offices are Investing in Sustainable Buildings

While the serviced offices industry is rapidly evolving, one key area should be to create buildings for the future. In an age where sustainability and social responsibility are becoming increasingly important, service offices have the potential to help lead that change. For example, when designing serviced office buildings, there is a social obligation for owners to incorporate eco-friendly features to preserve energy in the nation’s journey to net 0. 

With an emphasis on sustainability, service offices can reduce a company’s environmental impact by minimising their carbon footprint. Beyond the social gain and importance, these initiatives will also save money for clients as there will be less reliance on costly resources. Serviced offices are proving that by revolutionising their reputation and brand, more companies are becoming interested in the idea of flexible workspace over the more traditional lease. 

This article will explore some of how serviced offices are creating buildings for the future that have an emphasis on sustainability and social responsibility. 

Sustainability in Serviced Offices

Sustainability is a key consideration for many companies looking to reduce their carbon footprint and create a more environmentally friendly workspace. As a result, to build these buildings for the future, serviced offices must incorporate a range of sustainable features into their spec. Fortunately, many avenues are feasible with lasting social benefits. 

Solar Panels

Solar panels are an excellent way to generate renewable energy and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Many office space providers are installing solar panels on their rooftops, which not only generate electricity but also help to insulate the building, reducing the need for heating and cooling. By harnessing the power of the sun, serviced offices will reduce their carbon footprint while saving money on energy bills. 

At Venaspace Offices, we have installed a 50kWh solar panel system with over 165 panels across our Bournemouth Offices: Wilson House and The Lodge. Due to the success of this initiative, we are currently installing over 100 solar panels at our Plymouth location, The Apex. We believe solar panels are becoming increasingly important as they generate the most power during peak hours – daytime. Furthermore, a benefit of solar panels is they require very little maintenance once installed, increasing their cost-effectiveness. 

EV Charging

A second sustainable feature to incorporate in these buildings for the future is EV Charing. As more people switch to electric vehicles, it is important to keep up with demand and changing times. Serviced offices are responding by installing charging points in their car parks to make it easier for tenants to charge their vehicles at work. Not only does this help to reduce emissions, but it also demonstrates a commitment to sustainability and a willingness to adapt to changing technologies. 

At Venaspace Offices, we have installed EV Charging points in Bournemouth and Plymouth in our private car parks. As a company, we also use electric cars to travel between our buildings in an effort to reduce our carbon impact. As serviced office space providers, we believe we have a responsibility to adopt and adapt to the needs of the future and that our buildings should continually evolve to meet environmental demands. 

Green Spaces

Another initiative that office providers are spearheading is the importance of green spaces. Whether these green spaces are incorporated via a rooftop garden, a green wall, or an indoor atrium, they provide a range of benefits for tenants. For example, they can improve air quality, provide a calming environment, and could potentially reduce the heat island effect in urban areas. 

At Venaspace Offices, we are always looking for ways to incorporate greenery into the design of our buildings. At Wilson House, we included a communal rooftop terrace and two private offices with their own private terraces. At The Apex, we added a moss wall in our community hub and will be launching an outdoor garden this summer. With urban locations, it is increasingly important to include greenery in the blueprint of the building. 

Social Responsibility in Serviced Offices

Buildings for the future do not stop at sustainability. Social responsibility is also an important consideration and refers to their impact on the local community.

Charitable Events

One way serviced offices can support charitable initiatives is by hosting events and fundraisers. These events provide tenants with an opportunity to get involved and make a difference in their local community. These events raise money for a good cause and foster a sense of community among the tenants.

At Venaspace Offices, we try to create opportunities for our members to participate in charitable causes. Whether through popular events, such as Macmillan Coffee Morning and Christmas Jumper Day, or events with cover charges donated to local causes. 

Partnerships 

Finally, serviced offices can have a positive impact on the local community by supporting local businesses and charities. This support might include partnering with local suppliers, promoting local events and initiatives, or becoming the host for a local initiative. By doing so, serviced offices contribute to the local economy and create a sense of community and belonging.

Conclusion

In conclusion, flexible workspaces are creating buildings for the future by incorporating a range of sustainable features and promoting social responsibility. From solar panels and EV charging to green spaces and charitable events, serviced offices are leading the way in creating eco-friendly workspaces that support the local community. By doing so, they reduce their carbon footprint, encourage a positive impact on the world, and create a more enjoyable and productive environment for their tenants.

Contact one of our community managers to learn more about our flexible model at Venaspace Offices.

Katrin Dakeva (Bournemouth)

📧 katrin@venaspace.com

📱07507 125442

Owain Pentney Ridd (Plymouth & Exeter)

📧 owain@venaspace.com

📱07951 580511