Office Amenities: What tenants will pay more for
Not all office space is created equal – and these days, it’s the detail that makes the difference. For commercial landlords and investors, understanding what tenants now value can be the tipping point between long-term occupancy and lingering vacancy. Amenity, once considered the cherry on top, is now central to how space is judged, priced and prioritised. So, what’s really driving demand?
Some features no longer count as extras
Secure bike storage and shower facilities are now considered baseline infrastructure – especially in city fringe locations where alternative commuting is on the rise. At the same time, demand is growing for offices that offer variety: breakout zones, quiet rooms, and shared team areas that match the pace and pattern of the work week. Space efficiency is in. Fixed desks for fixed hours, less so.
Connectivity continues to climb the list
Fast, reliable internet is a given, but what tenants are really looking for is how well meeting rooms perform. Hybrid-ready spaces with built-in video, screen sharing, and audio that functions seamlessly are expected. The goal is simplicity: no delays, no workarounds, no need to call IT.
Open-plan vs focus
Open-plan still has its place, but tenants are seeking more control over how space is used. The most effective floor plans now include a mix of enclosed rooms, shared zones, and quiet areas that support different types of work. The ability to switch gears, from team time to deep focus, is a growing priority.
• Hybrid-ready meeting spaces with friction-free tech have moved from feature to expectation.
• Natural light and airflow consistently top tenant wishlists.
• Offices near coffee, food, and green space score better for retention in fringe and CBD locations.
• It’s not about offering more. It’s about offering what matters.
Bright, breathable, easy to be in
Offices that get the fundamentals right tend to hold greater appeal. Natural light and good airflow support concentration, comfort, and clarity. When a space feels good to work in, it shows in the leasing interest.
Then there’s location
Easy access to food, coffee and green space - proximity to hospitality is particularly influential in fringe and city settings, where lifestyle factors feed into retention.
Other features help seal the deal (but rarely lead it)
On-site wellness rooms, rooftop terraces, tenant apps, and concierge services add polish - especially in larger precincts. Likewise, EV charging stations and bike repair areas are becoming more common in new builds, and increasingly expected in forward-looking refurbishments. For tenants with a sustainability agenda, these touches can tip the scale.
The takeaway?
It’s not about offering more; it’s about offering what matters. The most successful office spaces support the rhythm of modern work without overcomplicating it. When the environment fits the way people operate, leasing interest tends to follow, and value tends to hold.