When it comes to finding the right office space in London, you will be looking at hundreds, if not thousands of options. Two terms you’ll frequently come across during your search will undoubtedly be serviced offices and managed offices. But what do they really mean? And more importantly, which one is the best fit for your business?
At Old Street WorkRooms, we specialise in providing flexible office solutions at Old Street, close to central London forfreelancers, startups, growing businesses, and established corporates alike.
So, if you’re deciding between a serviced office or a managed office, here’s everything you need to know.
What is a Serviced Office?
In simple terms, a serviced office is a fully equipped, ready-to-use office space that’s managed by a provider like Old Street WorkRooms.
The serviced office meaning ultimately centres on convenience. You move in, plug in your laptop straightaway, and you’re good to go. There are no setup hassles, no long-term leases, and no hidden costs.
How Do Serviced Offices Work?
At Old Street WorkRooms, our serviced offices include:
- High-speed internet
- Furniture and fittings
- Utilities and maintenance
- Daily cleaning services
- Access to shared meeting rooms, and breakout areas
- Reception and postal services
- An optional registered office address service
You will only pay for the space you use, and the rest is taken care of. Our serviced offices provide an ideal option for businesses that value flexibility, or those who want to avoid the time and costs involved in setting up a traditional office!
What Does Serviced Office Mean for Your Business?
In short: ease, adaptability, and all-inclusive pricing. Perfect for growing startups or a project-based teams needing short-term space, our serviced offices let you focus on your work, while we take care of the rest.
What is a Managed Office?
Unlike serviced offices, managed workspaces can be customised to suit your needs. While they are still run by a provider (such as Old Street WorkRooms), you have more of a say into the official layout, branding, and overall functionality of your workspace space.
A managed office is the halfway point between a leased office and a serviced office – it’s tailored to your business but still comes with the convenience of an on-site management team.
What is the Difference Between a Managed and Serviced Office?
| Features | Serviced Office | Managed Office |
| Setup Time | Move in straight away | Custom-fit out, which may take additional time |
| Lease Term | Short-term, flexible arrangements | Longer term |
| Customisation | Minimal (ready to use) | High (versatile branding and layout options) |
| Management & Support | Included | Included |
| Costs | All-inclusive | Tailored, can vary. |
Ultimately, what is the difference between a managed and serviced office? It comes down to flexibility vs. control. If you need a bespoke space with your branding and layout choice, a managed office might be best. If speed and convenience are your top priorities, opt for a serviced office.
What is Included in Serviced Office Space?
When you choose Old Street WorkRoom’s serviced offices, here’s what is included:
- Accommodating teams of 4 to 40
- Desks and ergonomic chairs
- Meeting room access
- Fast Wi-Fi
- Kitchen facilities
- Breakout areas
- Registered office address service
- Front-of-house, IT and tech support
- Cleaning and maintenance
- Utilities and insurance
- Flexible terms and simple pricing
Discover how we’ve designed our serviced office solutions to feel less like a corporate box and more like a creative, energising environment!
Extra Services to Consider: What is Virtual Office Service?
Not ready for a physical space just yet? We also offer a virtual office service – perfect for remote teams, freelancers, or early-stage businesses who want a professional registered office address in London.
A virtual office service typically includes mail handling, call forwarding, and access to meeting rooms on-demand. It’s a budget-friendly way to maintain a London presence without committing to full-time space.
So, Which Workspace is Right for You?
Whether you’re new to the city or scaling your team, understanding what serviced offices are or what a serviced office means can help you make the best choice for your business.
If you’re looking for speed, simplicity, low upfront costs and fully managed amenities, then a serviced office at Old Street WorkRooms is likely your perfect match.
If you want a branded space, longer-term stability and control over the overall layout and design, then a managed office may better suit your needs.
Not sure? We’re always happy to chat. At Old Street WorkRooms, we’re not just here to rent you a desk, but can support your business growth with flexible office solutions that adapt as you do.
Ready to explore your options? Book a tour today and discover why so many businesses choose our office space to call home.