Sustainable Office Leasing: How Spacefinder Supports Smarter and Greener Choices
Sustainability in the commercial real estate market isn’t just about building materials and energy ratings – it’s also about how we lease and use office space. Spacefinder believes the key to sustainable leasing lies in challenging conventional practices and reducing the need for costly renovations.
What does sustainable leasing mean in practice?
Ideally, companies find office space that meets their needs without major modifications. The reality is often different. Many spaces require reconstruction to match the tenant’s preferred way of working – a process that is both expensive and environmentally taxing.
Spacefinder challenges this practice. We believe the market must adopt a more sustainable mindset when it comes to the use and reuse of office spaces – particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which make up the majority of the Norwegian business landscape.
Renting spaces “as is” – a sustainable ideal
Leasing office space “as is” – meaning in its current state – is both more affordable and environmentally friendly. Yet this happens rarely. Often, it’s due to poor timing, lack of availability, or simply because the right spaces aren’t identified in time.
Market dynamics also play a role. In a landlord’s market – with low vacancy – tenants face more pressure to adapt to what’s available. In a tenant’s market – with greater supply – it’s easier to find spaces that work without needing renovations.
SMEs deserve better solutions
Large companies typically have the financial resources to carry out extensive refurbishments. For SMEs, this is far more challenging. That’s why Spacefinder works to make it easier to discover existing spaces that already fit their needs without major alterations.
By showcasing available spaces, including subleases and flexible contract options, we help improve market flow and reduce the need for resource-intensive buildouts.
Smarter search and better user journeys
Spacefinder is developing digital tools that simplify the process of finding spaces that fit “as is.” The goal is to make office searches more efficient, reduce costs, and encourage sustainable choices – benefiting both tenants and landlords.
FAQ: Sustainable Office Leasing
What does it mean to lease office space “as is,” and why is it sustainable?
Leasing “as is” means taking over the space in its current condition, without major renovations. It’s sustainable because it reduces waste, material consumption, and costs.
How can small and medium-sized businesses find spaces that don’t require major alterations?
By using search platforms like Spacefinder and exploring options such as subleasing or contract transfers, SMEs increase their chances of finding office space that already meets their needs.
What’s the difference between a landlord’s market and a tenant’s market?
In a landlord’s market, there are fewer available spaces, which pressures tenants to accept modifications. In a tenant’s market, there is more supply, giving tenants more options that may fit without changes.
Is it realistic for SMEs to find sustainable office spaces in the Oslo region?
Yes – especially with proper planning and the right tools. Spacefinder helps SMEs discover flexible and cost-efficient spaces that also support environmental goals.
What can landlords do to support more sustainable leasing?
They can offer flexible contracts, allow subleasing, and make unused space more visible. This increases the use of existing space and reduces the need for new builds and refurbishments.
About the author
This article was written by Simen Strandos, advisor at Spacefinder. He specializes in guiding small and medium-sized businesses in finding or leasing out office spaces.