New to office rental? Here’s what to consider when securing your first professional workspace in Nottingham.
Moving into your first office is one of the biggest milestones in a start-up journey. It represents growth, professionalism, and the exciting shift from an idea run at home to a fully fledged business. Nottingham, known for its mix of creative energy and strong business infrastructure, is an ideal place for entrepreneurs to establish their base. But finding the right office isn’t as simple as picking the first space you see. From budget constraints to flexibility and amenities, there are key factors that will shape the decision. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps to finding your first office to rent in Nottingham, helping you make a confident choice that supports both your business and your team.
1. Define Your Budget Early
For start-ups, every pound matters. When you begin searching for an office to rent in Nottingham, setting a realistic budget should be your first priority. Office rent is only one part of the overall cost don’t forget to include:
- Utilities and internet – Reliable connectivity is non-negotiable for modern businesses.
- Furniture and equipment – From desks and chairs to IT infrastructure.
- Insurance – Protecting your assets and ensuring compliance.
- Service charges and maintenance – Some spaces include this in rent, others don’t.
Opting for spaces with affordable workspace for entrepreneurs can help you stretch your resources further. At Oldknows Factory, our flexible terms mean you don’t need to lock yourself into a high-cost, long-term lease before your business is ready.
2.Choose the Right Location
Location plays a huge role in shaping your business reputation and accessibility. A central Nottingham workspace can make it easier to attract clients, employees, and collaborators. When choosing a location, ask yourself:
- Is it accessible? Your team and clients will need straightforward access via public transport or nearby parking.
- Is it central for networking? Being in the city centre can open doors to more events, opportunities, and collaborations.
- Does it fit your culture? Surroundings matter — an innovative or creative area might better suit your business image.
Oldknows Factory, situated on Egerton Street just off Mansfield Road, is both central and connected. It offers the convenience of city access while being part of a thriving, creative community.
3.Flexibility is Key
Start-ups are unpredictable. Your business may grow faster than expected or pivot in new directions. That’s why flexible office solutions for start-ups are so valuable. Look for spaces that allow:
- Short-term leases – Avoiding being locked into lengthy contracts.
- Room to expand – The option to upgrade to bigger offices as your team grows.
- Shared facilities – Meeting rooms, kitchens, and communal areas that don’t require extra investment.
At Oldknows Factory, our leasing model is designed to give start-ups agility. Whether you’re a solo founder today or a team of ten tomorrow, we can adapt to your changing needs.
4.Consider Amenities and Support
Your office should be more than a desk and four walls. It should support your growth. Practical and lifestyle amenities can have a huge impact on your team’s productivity and morale. When looking at a business workspace, check for:
- Meeting and event spaces for client presentations.
- Kitchens and breakout areas for team collaboration and downtime.
- Fitness and wellness options, such as on-site gyms or yoga studios.
- Parking, bike storage, and secure access for everyday convenience.
At Oldknows Factory, our facilities tick all these boxes. You’ll not only find versatile office and studio spaces but also the extras that make work-life balance easier.
5.Community and Collaboration
The community around your workspace can be as important as the office itself. Renting your first office is about more than having your own address , it’s about joining a network. A workspace filled with like-minded professionals, freelancers, and creatives provides:
- Natural networking opportunities.
- Inspiration from other industries.
- A chance to collaborate on projects.
- Peer support during the highs and lows of start-up life.
At Oldknows Factory, our mix of artists, designers, entrepreneurs, and businesses creates a lively ecosystem. You won’t just be renting a room, you’ll be part of a community where ideas and opportunities thrive.
6.Think Long-Term
Even though flexibility is important, you should also keep the long-term picture in mind. Ask yourself:
- Will this space still suit us in 12 months?
- Does the building have facilities we can grow into?
- Will the location still be convenient as we expand?
Start-ups often underestimate how quickly they can grow. Planning ahead ensures you don’t face the disruption of moving again too soon.
At Oldknows Factory, we see many businesses start small and expand within our building, growing from a single studio to a larger suite while staying in the same creative environment.
Wrapping up
Finding your first office is about making a strategic decision that balances affordability, accessibility, flexibility, and community. Nottingham’s growing reputation as a hub for start-ups makes it an excellent city to take this step. By thinking carefully about your needs both now and in the future you can secure a commercial property in Nottingham that helps your business thrive.
If you’re a start-up looking for office space for entrepreneurs in a supportive, creative, and flexible setting, Oldknows Factory is here to help. With its mix of historic character and modern facilities, it’s more than an office, it’s a home for ambitious businesses.
👉 Contact us today call 0115 6971057 to discover your ideal workspace.
