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How to increase revenue per square metre in multi-tenant buildings

March 27th, 2025

perks of coworking
As a landlord or property manager in a multi-tenant building, there are several KPI’s you need to keep in mind. One of those KPIs is increasing the revenue per square metre (RPSM) in your office spaces. With rising operational costs, evolving tenant expectations, and the shift towards more flexible workspaces, finding innovative ways to maximise every square metre is essential. So, how can multi-tenant building operators ensure they’re making the most of their space while maintaining a premium tenant experience?
Understanding the multi-tenant landscape
Across Europe, the commercial real estate market is set to grow by €84.8 billion by 2029, with demand for adaptable office spaces on the rise. Meanwhile, construction and fit-out costs have surged—office fit-outs in cities like London cost up to €3,790 per square metre – making space efficiency more critical than ever. In this competitive environment, landlords must go beyond traditional leasing models and rethink how they monetise their space.
Strategies to increase revenue per square metre
1. Embrace flexible leasing models
Gone are the days of rigid, long-term leases. The rise of hybrid work and coworking spaces has created demand for more dynamic leasing options. Offering short-term rentals, hot desking, and shared office spaces can attract a wider range of tenants, from startups to established businesses seeking flexible solutions. Multi-tenant buildings that incorporate coworking areas or on-demand meeting rooms can significantly boost their occupancy rates and rental income.
2. Invest in sustainability and ESG
The EU’s Energy Performance of Buildings Directive requires all commercial buildings to meet an EPC rating of ‘E’ by 2027 and ‘D’ by 2030. Landlords who proactively invest in energy-efficient upgrades, such as smart lighting, heating, and ventilation systems, can not only reduce operational costs but also command higher rents. Green-certified buildings also tend to attract premium tenants willing to pay more for eco-friendly workspaces.
3. Enhance amenities and tenant services
Today’s tenants expect more than just a desk and WiFi. On-site amenities such as fitness centres, cafés, event spaces, and concierge services can increase a building’s appeal and justify premium rents. Additionally, integrating technology—like smart access control, automated booking systems, and seamless visitor management—enhances tenant experience and operational efficiency, making the space more valuable.
4. Optimise space utilisation
Every square metre in a multi-tenant building should contribute to revenue generation. Reconfiguring layouts to increase desk density, introducing multi-purpose spaces, or even monetising common areas for pop-up events or retail collaborations can unlock additional income streams. With office construction costs up by 50% since 2019, maximising existing space is more cost-effective than expanding.
Real-world success stories
Take, for example, a multi-tenant office in Paris that upgraded its energy efficiency, improving its EPC rating from ‘F’ to ‘C’. This resulted in a 15% increase in rental value. Similarly, a London-based commercial building introduced flexible workspaces and premium amenities, leading to a 20% rise in revenue per square metre over two years. These cases highlight the tangible benefits of a strategic approach to space optimisationReal .
Overcoming challenges
While these strategies can drive revenue growth, they also require upfront investment. Property owners must carefully assess market demand and tenant needs to ensure their investments align with long-term profitability. Smart planning, data-driven insights, and innovative property management solutions can make all the difference.
Future outlook: The shift towards smarter spaces
As multi-tenant buildings evolve, so must their revenue models. The future lies in data-driven decision-making, tenant-focused design, and the seamless integration of technology to enhance space efficiency. By staying ahead of trends and leveraging smart building management software, landlords can ensure that every square metre works harder to maximise profitability.

Want to see how technology can help you optimise your space and boost revenue? Zapfloor’s smart workspace solutions give you the insights and tools needed to make the most of your multi-tenant building. Let’s chat!