Benefits of leasing the refurbished buildings in Central London

Central London remains one of the world’s most competitive office leasing markets. Businesses are increasingly drawn to refurbished buildings because they combine historic architecture’s charm with modern upgrades’ efficiency. Therefore, if you are looking for an ideal office space in Fitzrovia, here are the benefits of leasing refurbished buildings (1).

1. Prestige without the premium of new-builds

Leasing modernised period buildings offers the same Grade A look and feel as a new development. However, according to the office market report, refurbished offices can save tenants £1.50 per sq ft compared to brand-new builds. Renovating a listed office also includes (2):

• Provides client-ready meeting spaces and high-spec finishes.
• Gives the space an architectural prestige.
• Gives businesses flexibility, especially with Cat A and Cat B fit-outs (3).

2. Faster access to move-in-ready space

Refurbished buildings are often move-in ready, reducing the time lag between signing a lease and beginning operations. A JLL report shows more businesses are renewing existing leases or seeking move-in-ready spaces. This makes refurbished offices an ideal choice.

• Pre-installed Cat A/Cat B finishes with lower upfront costs.
• Ideal for businesses seeking quick expansion in Central London.

3. Flexible layouts to support growth

Refurbished offices frequently include break-out spaces, open-plan zones, and private meeting rooms. A survey revealed that more than 54% of tenants seek flexible layouts to future-proof their workplace. That is because these spaces:

Can be easily reconfigured to meet hybrid or in-office needs.

• Support both small and large teams.
• Ensure scalability without relocating.

4. Sustainability that cuts costs and boosts ESG

Renovating offices in listed buildings makes them future-ready and compliant with modern EPC rating standards. This ensures energy efficiency and lowers operational expenses. For instance, Deloitte reports that refurbishments are the quickest and most cost-effective way to meet sustainability standards.

Tips to future-proof an office include:

• Using efficient heating and cooling systems.
• Lowering carbon footprint to support green targets.

5. Amenities that support wellbeing

Modernised offices prioritise a people-first workplace with health-focused trendy amenities. (These include:

• On-site breakout spaces for collaboration.
• Enhanced lighting and air quality systems.
• Proximity to green spaces and fitness facilities.

According to the UK Green Building Council, the workplace design directly impacts the well-being of office workers.

6. Central London lifestyle on the doorstep

Leasing a refurbished office in Fitzrovia and the surrounding areas brings work-life balance within reach. Research shows offices with access to lifestyle amenities and superior client services have higher tenant retention rates. Therefore, leasing modernised offices keeps tenants:

• Surrounded by world-class Fitzrovia restaurants (5).
• Within the 15-minute office concept, reducing commuting costs (6).
• Close to vibrant retail, gyms, and cultural hubs.

7. Historic charm that inspires your creativity

Listed buildings in Central London embody history and architectural elegance (7). For many businesses, the atmosphere of a modernised period building fosters creativity and brand identity.

Studies also show that offices with unique architectural character boost employee productivity by 15%.

8. An office that impresses clients & staff

A refurbished Central London office is a powerful tool for attraction and retention. Beyond client-ready meeting spaces, upgraded interiors and exteriors project professionalism, increasing brand trust. That is because an improved workplace:

• Enhances recruitment by showcasing a people-first workplace.
• Impresses clients during visits.
• Strengthens corporate reputation.

Refurbishing an office involves a thorough transformation that blends modern functionality with heritage character. These changes enhance the workplace experience and ensure the building is future-ready, compliant with sustainability standards, and attractive to staff and clients. Some of the upgrades you can expect in a refurbished office include:

• Sustainability and EPC improvements, such as insulation, efficient lighting, and low-carbon emissions.
• Cat A/Cat B fit-out enhancements like new flooring, branded finishes, enhanced lighting, furniture, and kitchens.
• Technology and connectivity upgrades: These include installation of high-speed broadband, integrated cabling, and smart building systems.
• Improved ventilation, natural light optimization, and wellness amenities to support a people-first workplace.
• Accessibility improvements, such as step-free access, lifts, and compliance with modern disability regulations.
• Reimagined reception and common areas to provide a professional, welcoming, and client-ready first impression.
• Meeting and collaboration zones equipped with AV systems and flexible layouts for hybrid working.

Choosing the right moment to lease an office in modernised period buildings makes a significant difference in cost savings and business efficiency. These listed offices are especially attractive when companies want to blend heritage character and upgraded functionality. Timing your lease strategically also ensures you gain maximum value from your workplace.

Best scenarios to lease a refurbished building include:

• When expanding teams and requiring flexible layouts that support scalability.
• If your business wants to save on fit-out costs with Cat A or Cat B ready spaces.
• During sustainability drives that require future-ready EPC-compliant offices.
• When relocation is urgent and a move-in-ready, client-ready workplace is essential.

Reference list:

(1) How to find ideal office space in Fitzrovia, Central London (2025)

(2) How to renovate a listed office in Fitzrovia?

(3) Office Fit-outs explained: Cat A vs Cat B

(4) 10 office design trends that reshape London workplaces (2025 update)

(5) 2025 Top picks: The best restaurants in Fitzrovia, Central London

(6) The 15 minute office: How Fitzrovia lets tenants go car‑free