The future of offices in Europe: is it at risk?
The future of offices in Europe is facing a changing landscape that is redefining their functionality and attractiveness as an investment. According to a report by Cushman & Wakefield, more than 70% of offices in Western Europe could become obsolete by 2030.
This challenge stems from three main factors: new sustainability regulations, the transformation of work models following the pandemic, and economic pressure. This article analyzes the current situation of these challenges and explores how they can be turned into opportunities to maximize the value of office assets.
New regulations and the sustainability challenge
Sustainability has become a fundamental pillar for the future of offices. The EU Directive 2024/1275 on the Energy Performance of Buildings (EPBD) requires that new office buildings meet near-zero emissions standards by 2030, while existing buildings must adapt by 2050. This regulatory shift will force property owners to invest significantly in modernizing their assets to comply with new requirements, such as sustainability certifications.
Buildings that fail to adapt may face legal penalties and loss of competitiveness, as companies increasingly prioritize sustainable and energy-efficient offices. In Western Europe, where many office buildings are over three decades old, this transition represents a major challenge. However, despite the high initial costs, modernization can yield long-term benefits, such as reduced operating expenses and greater appeal to premium tenants.
The impact of changing work models
The shift towards hybrid and remote work models has transformed how companies use office spaces. Many organizations are downsizing their offices, combining remote and in-person work, meaning they no longer need space for all employees at once. According to Cushman & Wakefield, offices located outside central areas have vacancy rates up to 550 basis points higher than those in urban centers. This means that while offices outside major urban hubs may be easier to rent, they are still less attractive to businesses and employees alike.
This shift has also increased demand for more modern assets that offer high-quality services, sustainability features, and strategic locations. In contrast, older buildings or those in high-demand areas with premium pricing face a significant risk of vacancy, putting additional pressure on property owners to reposition their assets.
Economic pressures: costs and competitiveness
The current economic environment adds another layer of complexity to the office sector. Factors such as rising interest rates, inflation, and increasing energy costs have escalated financial burdens for both property owners and tenants. Upgrading buildings to meet new environmental regulations requires substantial investment, which can be challenging during periods of lower profitability in certain market segments.
Additionally, competition from coworking spaces and the rise of flexible solutions have shifted part of the demand away from traditional office spaces. Property owners must adapt to these dynamics by offering more flexible leases, customizable spaces, and additional services to remain competitive.
Repositioning and repurposing: from obsolescence to opportunity
Despite the challenges, there are successful examples of transformation that highlight the potential to reposition office assets. Projects like Torre Pujades in Barcelona demonstrate how incorporating sustainability features and enhancing services can revitalize buildings and increase their market appeal. In London, another notable case is the conversion of an obsolete business park into a mixed-use space focused on healthcare services, diversifying revenue streams for the property owner.
However, according to the Cushman & Wakefield report, conducting a scenario-based financial analysis is crucial to determining whether a building should be renovated, repositioned, or even converted for a completely different use.
Conclusion: adapt or die
The future of offices in Europe depends on property owners’ ability to anticipate changes and act swiftly. Challenges related to sustainability, work models, and economic pressures should not be seen merely as threats but as opportunities to transform assets and align them with current market demands. Investments in technology, energy efficiency, and flexible value propositions will be essential to ensure the relevance and performance of office assets in the future.
With a strategic approach, European offices can overcome current obstacles and emerge stronger, more sustainable, and better aligned with the expectations of businesses and workers of the future.