Commercial real estate is a competitive game at the best of times, but commercial property owners are facing additional challenges in a hybrid workforce world.  Sarasota architects are continually looking for better ways to construct buildings and interiors that will attract high-quality corporate tenants and keep revenues growing as planned.  In addition, it is important that tenants are invested in making the property their own – treating the premises with respect, being proactive about repairs and maintenance, and keeping current with rent payments and fees.

Here are some of the features that professional architects have learned will attract the best quality tenants.

    1. Easy Building Access
      Potential tenants want a corporate space that is easy to access by both employees and clients. Tight parking spaces, narrow entrances, or too many steps may discourage potential tenants. Property enhancements such as multiple accessible handicap ramps and keyless entry doors may also be valued by potential tenants and put you ahead of the competitive pack.
    2. No Renovation Required
      Business tenants are already spending large sums of money to move their corporate offices, so the need to retrofit the office once they get there may cause hesitation. A move-in-ready commercial office or retail space is attractive to prospective tenants looking to optimize their budgets. Clients should never have to clean, redo flooring, or paint the walls simply to move in. If you know who the tenants are prior to renovation, you can solicit design preferences and make the space truly ready for immediate possession.
    3. Fitness Facilities
      An onsite gym or fitness facility is convenient for tenants, saving them both time and money. Businesses – especially those who value employee wellness – will be more likely to lease space that provides their employees with a healthier work-life balance and fewer sick days overall.  Property owners can consider a gym, offer classes, or even build a trail/track outdoors for walking.
    4. Kitchen or Cafeteria Services
      Potential tenants will understand the appeal of a full-service, onsite kitchen area to store, cook or heat up food. Providing space for meal preparation and a generous seating area will encourage healthier meal options, generate community, and build teams. If the corporate office building houses several businesses, consider adding a cafeteria or restaurant that will allow quality food without leaving campus. Tenants will love a coffee shop, snack bar, or taco stand – and you will enjoy extra income.
    5. Outdoor Break Areas
      Corporate tenants will appreciate curated outdoor areas to enjoy time away from their desks without leaving the campus. If there are no current outdoor gathering areas – or if they are not well maintained – property owners should focus on developing these features. Depending on the type of building and property, an outdoor break room may be a  garden, lakefront gazebo, or rooftop patio. Well-designed outdoor spaces are one of the most desirable features for corporate tenants.
    6. Sustainable Building Features: Healthy, efficient, and cost-saving buildings respect the Earth and the people who live here. Whether using organic materials, incorporating living walls and water features, or designing energy-efficient systems that lower utility bills, sustainable buildings make corporations more confident in their choice.
    7. Natural Lighting
      Natural lights enhance the environment, support employee morale, and boost productivity. No one wants to work in a gloomy, enclosed cubicle farm – corporate owners should look to design airy spaces with large windows and skylights to let natural light flow in.
    8. Commuting Accessibility
      Many business owners look for a corporate location that offers their employees multiple commuting options to get to work, including a bus stop or train station. Property owners looking to attract tenants should also consider bicycle storage and electric car charging stations.
    9. Child Care Options
      Commercial property is often more attractive to business owners and their employees when a childcare center is onsite. Having their children in the same building is a huge benefit for employees and can elevate morale – and may also help employers avoid attrition and build loyalty.

    Attract the Best Corporate Tenants

    JTL Studios is a Sarasota-based architectural firm that designs innovative spaces for residential and commercial clients. If you are a business owner looking to attract a higher caliber of clients, call us today for a consultation.