Legal sector office insights and trends | SHB

Legal offices

SHB has helped law firms of all sizes, from specialist boutiques to the Magic Circle, find, negotiate and plan their workspace strategy. We know that for legal practices, real estate isn’t just an checkbox need, rather it is a strategic decision that impacts all areas of operations and positioning.
Law firm office search London and UK

Did you know?

Law firms are looking for tech-ready offices with robust infrastructure, secure data networks, and thoughtful space for AI-powered workflows
27% of legal professionals report hybrid work poses daily challenges, such as technological gaps and coordination issues

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Legal clients are looking at cost and space strategies to optimise operational efficiency, balancing prestige with flexibility

Discover Legal businesses by location

Office submarkets where we’ve recently placed financial businesses

Finding law firms their ideal workspace

London is home to one of the world’s most respected legal markets. The City’s enduring role as a global centre for law is built on centuries of expertise, international prestige and a highly skilled workforce. Legal services are among the UK’s most in-demand exports, and with growing client expectations, competition for talent, and the shift toward hybrid working, law firms are reevaluating how their offices support their future.

The entire legal sector continues to show strong demand for high-quality office space:
→ The Legal sector consistently ranks among the top three sectors for office space take-up in London, including a leading position in prime City and Midtown locations.

→ Even with hybrid trends, premium space demand has risen as firms seek to enhance collaboration, support client meetings, and showcase brand stature.

→ We’re seeing legal occupiers prioritise buildings with excellent ESG credentials, cutting-edge technology infrastructure, and adaptable, high-quality fit-outs that support both concentration and collaboration.

Strategic workspace advice

In addition to growth planning capacity, office strategy is about supporting the firm’s culture, delivering an exceptional client experience and making smart, future-ready investments.

We help legal clients answer questions such as:
→ How do we balance client-facing prestige with flexible work needs?
→ How can we reduce occupancy costs without losing quality?
→ What locations will best support our talent strategy?
→ Which landlords will offer the flexibility we need in uncertain times?

Our team combines deep commercial property expertise with advanced technology tools to deliver actionable, data-led advice. From strategic planning to lease negotiations, we work as trusted partners to ensure your real estate aligns with your firm’s goals.

Please get in touch if we can help with your workspace needs.

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