Starting a business is one of the most exciting, challenging decisions you’ll make, both personally and professionally. You’ve got an idea, maybe even a small team behind you, and you’re ready to take on the task. However, in these early stages, resources are limited, and every decision needs to be considered, especially when it comes to how and where you set up your business.
A virtual office becomes not just relevant, but a strategic move. For startups looking to balance professionalism with flexibility, virtual offices offer a great solution. If you’re looking for the ideal location to establish your business presence, Old Streetremains one of the most renowned hubs for startups in the UK.
So, what is a virtual office? How does it work? And why should you consider setting your business up in Old Street?
Our guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
What Is a Virtual Office and How Does It Work?
A virtual office is a service that allows you to launch your business with a professional address, telephone services, and mail handling, all without the need to rent a physical office space. In practice, this means your startup can function and appear established to clients, investors, and partners, while you and your team work remotely or from anywhere that suits you best.
The way it works is simple. You choose a virtual office provider like Old Street WorkRooms, sign up for a package that fits your needs, and use our given address as your company’s business address. This address can be used on your website, invoices, legal documents, and even with Companies House. Importantly, you can use a virtual office for company registration, provided it complies with UK business regulations – and Old Street WorkRooms does.
Your incoming mail will be received by our respected office team and stored securely for collection, scanned and emailed, or forwarded to your home or other preferred address. We also offer professional call handling, so that when clients or potential partners reach out, their first impression is handled with the utmost professionalism and care. A virtual office gives you all the outward credibility of a central London office, without the high costs, long-term leases, or daily commute, providing the best of both worlds.
Why Startups Choose Virtual Offices
For startups, first impressions matter. You may not have the budget for a full-time office or a dedicated receptionist, but you do need to appear credible, organised, and professional to clients, suppliers, and even investors.
That’s one of the main reasons startups are increasingly turning to virtual office services. A well-chosen virtual office allows you to focus on building your business while projecting confidence and trustworthiness to the outside world.
Using a professional virtual office address, especially one located at our London address, signals that your company is legitimate and established. That small detail can make a big difference when you’re negotiating with new clients, speaking to partners, or even just trying to make the right impression with a potential investor scanning your LinkedIn profile or business card.
A virtual office also protects your privacy. Many founders start their business from their living room or kitchen table. Which is fine, of course, but do you really want your home address publicly listed online or filed with official documents… Probably not. A virtual office gives you that layer of privacy and separation, allowing you to focus on your business without exposing your personal life.
Importantly, virtual offices also allow for future scalability. You don’t need to commit to a physical space straight away. You can build the business on your terms and then transition when you’re ready. If you partner with a provider like Old Street WorkRooms, easing into physical space down the line becomes seamless.
The Strategic Value of a Virtual Office in London
London is recognised as a global business capital, so having a London address on your company registration or website can carry real weight. Clients, suppliers, and investors all acknowledge the city as a significant centre of a thriving, competitive economy.
However, not all London addresses are equal. Some carry more prestige than others, and that’s where Old Street, often referred to as “Silicon Roundabout”, comes into effect.
Old Street is home to a large number of digital startups, scale-ups, creative agencies, investors, and co-working communities. Being associated with this part of the city gives your startup immediate cultural and corporate credibility.
It’s a real-world signal that you’re not just operating from a corner of the internet, but that you are effectively plugged into a major business ecosystem.
The Ideal Virtual Office Partner
At Old Street WorkRooms, our space is built specifically for entrepreneurs, solo workers, and startups.
Situated in the heart of Old Street, we offer more than just a mailing address and a prestigious postcode. Our space is home to an active, supportive environment that understands how startups operate and scale, where you can join a community of ambitious, forward-thinking professionals.
Whether you need a desk for a few days a week, you can also explore coworking and hot desking options, ideal for those who like the buzz of a shared space without the cost of a committed office. If you’re meeting investors or clients, you can also book one of the professional meeting rooms. These rooms are stylish, quiet, and fully equipped for presentations or video conferencing. It’s the perfect setting when you want to make the right impression.
Finally, when you’re ready to establish a more permanent base, Old Street WorkRooms offers serviced offices designed to grow with you. These private spaces allow you to scale your operations, all while keeping your address consistent and your support network intact.
A Smarter Business Presence
In today’s business world, flexibility is a strength. For startups, that flexibility often begins with how (and where) you operate.
Whether you’re looking for mail handling only or full admin support with phone answering, we have a plan to match your needs. Simply provide proof of identity and business details (in line with UK legal requirements), once approved, you’ll be able to use the EC1 address as your official business location for marketing, legal, and operational purposes.
A virtual office projects professionalism, protects your privacy, manages costs, and scales at your own pace. Position yourself strategically, using a professional, well-known business address that boosts your brand and client confidence.
If you’re ready to grow your business on your terms, take a look at our virtual office services and find the plan that fits your next step!