Clients of CBRE have the benefit of our broader portfolio management for the occupiers of single and multi tenanted space. If you need extra room to accomodate a larger than expected headcount, it's highly likely an area general manager can get you access somewhere else in their portfolio. There will generally be a cost depending on the requirements and expectations of the facility, and above all else, the client would need to sign off or have a contractual mechanism for us to pull allowing for this type of utilization for their space of course!

When the facility is fully booked first you need to confirm all the bookings because in many cases employees books desks but do not show up so you can reorganize with people that will really be in the office. If you can confirm that you reach 100% capacity you can explore coworking spaces. One time at work I even used extra credits from a coworking space from an office in one country in another, reaching savings to the company.

When your facility’s jam-packed but clients want more space, it’s time to get a bit crafty. First, think like a Tetris champ—can you shuffle schedules to make room during off-peak hours? If there’s a hidden nook or cranny anywhere, consider setting up temporary workstations or pop-up spaces (who doesn’t love a pop-up?). Got a friendly neighbor with spare room? Partnering up for overflow is a win-win without the price tag of expansion. And keep clients in the loop; they’ll appreciate knowing you’re working magic behind the scenes to make space for them, even if you’re currently playing facility Jenga.

From examples I’ve encountered, addressing space challenges often requires a mix of creativity and practicality. Optimizing layouts, such as using modular furniture or creating flexible workspaces, can unlock hidden potential within the existing facility. Implementing dynamic scheduling ensures fair and efficient use of space, accommodating more clients without compromising quality. In one instance, partnering with a neighboring venue allowed us to expand capacity during peak demand, ensuring client satisfaction. The key is to anticipate needs and adapt quickly, turning limitations into opportunities.