Inside Commercial Real Estate

How Much Office Space Do You Really Need? A Size Guide for Businesses

  • By -   Douglas Emmett Blog

Choosing the right amount of office space is crucial for productivity, employee satisfaction, and cost efficiency. Whether you're launching a startup or expanding your company, determining how much space you need can be tricky. Too little, and your team feels cramped. Too much, and you're wasting money on unused square footage. So, how do you strike the right balance?

General Office Space Guidelines

A common rule of thumb is 150–250 square feet per employee, but this varies depending on your industry, work style, and office layout. Here's a quick breakdown of common space requirements:

Open Workstations: 100-150 sq. ft. per employee

Private Offices: 150-400 sq. ft. per office

Conference Rooms: 20-30 sq. ft. per person

Break Rooms/Kitchens: 75-150 sq. ft. total

Reception Area: 100-200 sq. ft.

Factors to Consider

Team Size & Growth – Plan for future expansion. Leasing an office for rent or lease in Los Angeles that accommodates growth will save relocation costs.

Work Style & Layout – If your team collaborates frequently, open-plan offices require less space per employee. For privacy-focused roles, private offices or cubicles demand more space.

Amenities & Meeting Rooms – Do you need shared spaces like conference rooms, lounges, or storage? These can add to your square footage needs.

Finding the Right Office for Rent or Lease in Los Angeles County

If you’re looking for an office for rent or lease in Los Angeles County, it's essential to consider not just square footage but also location, accessibility, and amenities. There are many options for office space for rent in Los Angeles  , catering to various business sizes and needs.

Utilizing the Space Tool

Use this tool to search for available office space in West Los Angeles   that fits your business requirements:

Final Thought

Assess your business needs and use a space calculator to make an informed decision. A well-planned  office space for rent in Los Angeles  s fosters productivity, teamwork, and a positive work environment—without unnecessary overhead costs.

Need help finding the perfect office for rent or lease in Los Angeles County? Contact a workspace consultant today!