Before the lease: read the floor, not just the area.

Start with the work

Record headcount, attendance patterns and tasks requiring privacy. Use the same brief for every shortlisted building so the comparison is meaningful.

Look at what interrupts the plan

Core position, columns, entry points and servicing can change how much usable space a floor provides. Draw the meeting rooms and support areas before celebrating the desk count.

Bring the programme into the comparison

Ask about landlord review, fit-out access and the condition of existing services. A space that needs substantial enabling work may change both the move date and the budget.