Guide to Office Size and Layouts

Guide to Office Size and Layouts

Ultimate Guide to Office Size and Layouts in Malta

Finding the perfect office space in Malta requires more than just picking a location. One of the most important factors in securing a productive, cost-effective workspace is understanding the right office size and layout for your team. Whether you are a startup, SME or multinational company, making the right choice impacts employee satisfaction, operational efficiency, and your company’s professional image.

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of office sizing, layouts, pricing, and location insights to help businesses make informed decisions.


Why Office Size Matters

Selecting an office that is too small can create a cramped, unproductive environment. Conversely, leasing more space than needed increases unnecessary costs for rent, utilities, and maintenance.

Key factors to consider when determining office size:

  • Number of employees – Ensure each team member has enough workspace.

  • Type of work – Collaborative, client-facing, or individual-focused roles.

  • Growth potential – Leave room for new hires or business expansion.

  • Facilities – Kitchens, bathrooms, storage, and meeting rooms.

  • Client access – Reception areas and boardrooms enhance professional image.

In Malta, the standard recommendation is approximately 10–15 sqm per employee, plus additional space for common areas.


Typical Office Layouts in Malta

Choosing the right office layout is as critical as the size itself. Different layouts support different working styles, and many businesses combine multiple layouts for maximum flexibility.

1. Open Plan Offices

Open plan offices are widely adopted in Sliema, St Julians, and Gzira for creative, tech, and startup companies.

Features:

  • Large open space for flexible desk arrangements

  • Encourages teamwork and collaboration

  • Scalable for 5–50+ employees

Pros: Cost-effective and adaptable
Cons: Noise management may be required

2. Private Offices

Enclosed offices provide privacy for executives, managers, or teams handling sensitive work.

Features:

  • Controlled environment for focus and confidential tasks

  • Ideal for client-facing roles or HR departments

Pros: Increased privacy and professionalism
Cons: Less flexible for rapid expansion

3. Hybrid Layouts

Hybrid layouts combine open plan areas, private offices, boardrooms, and quiet zones.

Features:

  • Balance collaboration and focus

  • Supports diverse team structures

  • Common in medium to large offices in Malta

Pros: Offers maximum flexibility for growing businesses
Cons: Requires careful space planning

4. Serviced Offices

Serviced offices in Sliema, St Julians, and Valletta are fully furnished and ready to move in.

Features:

  • IT, reception, cleaning, and utilities included

  • Flexible leases with short-term options

  • Ideal for 1–12 desks or expanding teams

Pros: Immediate occupancy and turnkey operations
Cons: Monthly fees can be higher than standard leases


Estimating Your Office Size

A simple formula helps estimate the ideal office size:

Number of employees × space per employee (10–15 sqm) + space for meeting rooms, kitchens, and storage

Team Size Recommended Office Size (sqm) Notes
1–5 50–80 Ideal for startups or consultants
5–10 80–150 Supports small teams with 1–2 meeting rooms
10–25 150–350 Hybrid layout recommended
25–50 350–600 Multiple open plan areas + private offices
50+ 600+ Full floor leases, scalable, premium locations

Comparing Office Layouts

Layout Type Size Range (sqm) Ideal Team Size Pros Cons
Open Plan 50–500+ 5–50+ Collaboration, flexible Noise, less privacy
Private Office 10–50 per room 1–5 per room Privacy, professionalism Less scalable
Hybrid 100–600 10–50 Balance privacy & teamwork Requires planning
Serviced 10–150 1–12 Turnkey, flexible Higher cost per sqm

Office Pricing Guide by Location in Malta

Office rent in Malta varies by area, size, and building quality. Here’s a snapshot of current market rates:

Location Typical Size Price €/sqm/annum Notes
St Julians 50–400 sqm €200–€350 Premium locations, sea views, high demand
Sliema 50–300 sqm €180–€300 Flexible offices, serviced spaces available
Gzira 100–300 sqm €150–€250 Mid-size offices, ideal for SMEs
Ta’ Xbiex 50–150 sqm €160–€270 Smaller executive offices, professional setting
Valletta 50–200 sqm €180–€320 Heritage buildings, executive offices
Mriehel 200–600 sqm €120–€220 Industrial style, large corporate spaces

All prices are indicative. Contact OfficeSpace.Rent for current availability and exact pricing.


Factors to Consider When Choosing Office Size

  1. Workforce Requirements: Consider employee numbers, remote vs office-based, and future hires.

  2. Collaboration Needs: Do you need meeting rooms, breakout zones, or open workspaces?

  3. Client Impressions: Larger, well-designed spaces reflect professionalism and stability.

  4. Flexibility: Hybrid or serviced offices allow scaling without relocation.

  5. Amenities: Parking, accessibility, kitchens, bathrooms, and IT infrastructure.


Location Insights for Malta Office Spaces

Location affects both office rent and employee satisfaction.

  • St Julians: Premium offices, sea views, popular with financial institutions and multinational companies.

  • Sliema: Serviced and open plan offices, ideal for startups and SMEs, near transport links.

  • Gzira: Mid-sized offices, close to central business hubs, great for tech and creative teams.

  • Ta’ Xbiex: Executive offices, quiet professional environment, smaller footprint.

  • Valletta: Heritage offices with character, ideal for advisory firms or premium corporate image.

  • Mriehel: Industrial-style offices, cost-effective for large teams or storage-heavy operations.


Tips for Choosing the Best Office in Malta

  • Use internal floor plans to calculate desk placement and circulation areas.

  • Consider natural light, ventilation, and ergonomic factors for staff wellbeing.

  • Check for optional parking or nearby lots for convenience.

  • Choose high-profile business districts for better corporate branding.

  • Prioritize flexible layouts for business growth.


OfficeSpace.Rent – Malta’s Leading Office Real Estate Agency

OfficeSpace.Rent is Malta’s #1 authority in office leasing. We provide:

  • Expert guidance on office size, layout, and location

  • Extensive listings across St Julians, Sliema, Gzira, Ta’ Xbiex, Valletta, and Mriehel

  • Flexible leasing solutions including serviced offices, hybrid layouts, and premium floors

  • Assistance with parking, utilities, and property management

Partnering with OfficeSpace.Rent ensures your company secures the perfect workspace that supports growth, attracts talent, and reinforces your professional image in Malta.

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