The Flex List: Our Top 6 Sustainable Operators

Green Is The New Black.

Gone are the days of mere functionality. Now, operators are weaving eco-consciousness into their DNA as a non-negotiable. From sourcing renewable materials to implementing energy-efficient systems and leading recycling programs, operators are fostering an ethos of environmental responsibility. We've hand-picked our top 6 operators who have achieved the seemingly impossible: blending sustainability with style to create fabulous workspaces while shrinking their environmental footprint.

X+Why

We are in awe of X+Why’s ability to create truly stunning workspaces, ensuring premium quality and positive eco credentials. With all 10 of their buildings embracing biophilic design, achieving 0% waste to landfill, and running on 100% renewable energy, X+Why leads the charge in innovative sustainable workspace. Their BREEAM & SKA accreditations, along with their partnership with global charity, Buy 1 Give 1, deserves a major round of applause. Through one survey per member completed, they have provided a total of 446 meals to those in need. 

People’s Mission Hall

This flex space has a host of interior plants (456 to be exact), plus floor-to-ceiling windows which flood the workspace with natural light. We're making it our mission to work from its gorgeous landscaped courtyard. 

Foundry

Flaunting an impressive atrium, plentiful light and a jungle of plants (including an actual tree), the Foundry has safely secured a spot in our favourites. Further enhancing its eco-conscious ambiance, the interior is based on an entirely green fit out featuring refurbished chairs and upcycled materials, completing the sustainable aesthetic.

Impact Working

The core of Impact Working is founded on their values of positive impact, and fostering a workspace that tackles the urgent matters of our era head-on. Sustainability is at the heart of their entire workspace design and operations. Across their portfolio, you’ll find pre-loved furniture (as part of their eco-friendly friendship with Office Portfolio and Bureau) alongside an array of greenery, a top-notch recycling policy, ethically sourced coffee and 100% renewable energy.

The Arc

The Arc is “a new beacon for working in the capital", says Community Manager Lorenzo Pugi. Indeed, it is just that. We are loving the windowed alcove and skylight feature, flooding the new Central London site with plenty of natural light. As a fully electric facility, The Arc boasts carbon emissions that are 30% lower than its counterparts reliant on multi-fuel operation. This achievement has earned it a BREEAM excellent rating and a coveted gold WELL certification.

KOBA

Koba is taking the sustainable workplace sector by storm, unapologetically calling out the widespread greenwashing that plagues its counterparts. With an unwavering commitment to evidence-based practices, Koba calls for accountability within the sector, urging operators to substantiate their sustainability claims with complete transparency. Hence, their strong emphasis on using third party verified data to validate their own environmental commitments.

100 Barbirolli Square, October 2024

Koba has cherry-picked Manchester for its first ever site. Opening towards the end of 2024, this flex space is being built with low carbon design and 100% renewable energy, of course. Constructed with a circular economy in mind, this workspace entirely eliminates waste through its meticulous design of reuse. Think refurbished furniture, demountable walls, joinery that disassembles and even 'circularity passports'!

Second Home

Take your cue from Second Home. This flex operator's entire ethos revolves around creating a positive impact and shrinking their overall footprint. Their concept hinges on biophilia, recognising nature’s profound influence on tenant well-being and efficiency. This philosophy shines through in their eco-friendly interior designs, seen in their vast array of plants, preference for repair over rebuild, and use of recyclable materials.

Holland Park 

Anything with a name like 'Bubble Roof' has us interested. Second Home’s Holland Park location has gone above and beyond with a roof which actively adapts in real-time to weather conditions, slashing heating and cooling waste. 

Lisbon

Meanwhile, we are mind-blown by Lisbon's roof which automatically opens at night-time to let cool air in, and contains it by closing before sunrise. This works alongside practical pipes that run hot and cold water under the floor according to the seasons, keeping the space the perfect temperature all year round. It’s fair to say that Second Home has reached unparalleled levels of sustainable brilliance.

Fora

The Black & White Building

Fora's Black and White building stands out as their most sustainably crafted workspace yet, showcasing the perfect blend of beauty and sustainability. This mass timber office is powered entirely by renewable energy, boasting 80 solar panels on its roof. The carefully chosen cross-laminated timber ensures an impressively low carbon footprint, making it a shining example of eco-conscious construction.