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:
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Number of employees – Ensure each team member has enough workspace.
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Type of work – Collaborative, client-facing, or individual-focused roles.
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Growth potential – Leave room for new hires or business expansion.
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Facilities – Kitchens, bathrooms, storage, and meeting rooms.
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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:
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Large open space for flexible desk arrangements
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Encourages teamwork and collaboration
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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:
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Controlled environment for focus and confidential tasks
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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:
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Balance collaboration and focus
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Supports diverse team structures
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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:
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IT, reception, cleaning, and utilities included
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Flexible leases with short-term options
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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
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Workforce Requirements: Consider employee numbers, remote vs office-based, and future hires.
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Collaboration Needs: Do you need meeting rooms, breakout zones, or open workspaces?
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Client Impressions: Larger, well-designed spaces reflect professionalism and stability.
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Flexibility: Hybrid or serviced offices allow scaling without relocation.
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Amenities: Parking, accessibility, kitchens, bathrooms, and IT infrastructure.
Location Insights for Malta Office Spaces
Location affects both office rent and employee satisfaction.
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St Julians: Premium offices, sea views, popular with financial institutions and multinational companies.
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Sliema: Serviced and open plan offices, ideal for startups and SMEs, near transport links.
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Gzira: Mid-sized offices, close to central business hubs, great for tech and creative teams.
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Ta’ Xbiex: Executive offices, quiet professional environment, smaller footprint.
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Valletta: Heritage offices with character, ideal for advisory firms or premium corporate image.
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Mriehel: Industrial-style offices, cost-effective for large teams or storage-heavy operations.
Tips for Choosing the Best Office in Malta
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Use internal floor plans to calculate desk placement and circulation areas.
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Consider natural light, ventilation, and ergonomic factors for staff wellbeing.
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Check for optional parking or nearby lots for convenience.
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Choose high-profile business districts for better corporate branding.
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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:
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Expert guidance on office size, layout, and location
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Extensive listings across St Julians, Sliema, Gzira, Ta’ Xbiex, Valletta, and Mriehel
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Flexible leasing solutions including serviced offices, hybrid layouts, and premium floors
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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.