The way we work has changed. For many small business owners, the working day may now be divided between the kitchen table, a coffee shop, a client’s premises and online meetings. This flexibility has created genuine opportunities, reduced unnecessary travel and helped many businesses keep their overheads under control. But working from anywhere does not necessarily mean that a business no longer needs a place to call home.
In today’s flexible working world, the role of the office has evolved. It is no longer simply somewhere business owners, and their teams must attend five days a week. Instead, it can provide a professional base: somewhere to meet clients, collaborate with colleagues, concentrate on important work and create a clear boundary between business and home life.
For a small business, having the right space can also influence how the organisation is perceived. A professional business address and a welcoming place to hold meetings can build confidence among customers, partners and potential employees.
It signals that the business is established, accessible and ready to grow, without requiring the expense or long-term commitment of a traditional office lease.
There is also value in being around other people. Small business ownership can be isolating, particularly when every decision rests with one person. A shared business environment creates opportunities for conversation, recommendations, partnerships and the kind of informal support that cannot always be recreated through a video call. Sometimes a new client, supplier or idea begins with a simple conversation in a communal space. This is the reason our organisation was founded, to offer community and connection in the lonely world of entrepreneurship.
The question for small businesses is therefore no longer, “Do we work from home or from an office?” A better question is, “What combination of flexibility, space and support will help our business perform at its best?” For many owners, a flexible office base offers the best of both worlds: the freedom to work remotely when it makes sense and a professional place to connect, focus and grow when it matters.
This is why taking a small office at our hub works for our clients. Our location, just off Purley way, offers easy access from London and the South for drivers, as we are upon the A23 corridor, a place that’s known for making stuff happen! We have a secure carpark, bicycle storage and even showers if the commute has become racy!
For those using public transport, we are also only 2 minutes’ walk from Wandle Park tram stop. This means our tenants never have a problem hiring staff with many individuals travelling from different parts of London as well as Brighton to work from here daily.
We were reminded of the convenience of having Banana Moon Nursery opposite our building just last week when a long-standing tenants staff member returned from maternity leave, dropping her 8 month old baby over the road and running into the office. It was a delight to see her dressed up for work with a beaming smile at being able to reconnect with colleagues and work with her team, knowing her baby was just across the road. We all know the freedom working from home offers but there is a flip side.
If an office feels like a luxury these days, that’s because it is. It’s potentially the advantage for growth that you will have over your competitors by providing a space for team members to come together and drive your business forward.
A tax allowable expense, while putting you in the middle of a community that offers up to date news, connection and Contact us to arrange a viewing.