This year marks an impressive milestone for one of our long-standing tenants, Sarah Deane Photographic, who celebrates 11 years of running her photography studio from Clavering House.

Sarah Deane moved her business into the building in February 2015, transforming what was previously a storage space into a fully functioning photographic studio. Starting with a completely blank canvas (and over 25 litres of white paint!), she created the clean, timeless infinity backdrop that continues to define her work today.

What makes this transformation particularly impressive is just how much vision it required. Converting a basic, unused space into a professional studio environment is no small task, but Sarah saw the potential immediately and built something that has stood the test of time.

Over the past decade, that original setup has evolved into a busy and well-established studio, particularly known for high-quality professional headshots. Her work has supported individuals at every stage of their careers, from graduates and entrepreneurs to senior leaders and established teams.

Clients travel to the studio from across the North East, Scotland and Yorkshire, with Sarah working alongside organisations including John Lewis, Emirates, Barratt Homes, Newcastle Building Society and Citizens Advice. It’s a testament not only to the quality of her work, but also to the experience she creates for every client who walks through the door.

More than just a place to take photographs, the studio has become a space where individuals and brands are captured in a relaxed and supportive environment. For many clients, particularly those who may not feel naturally comfortable in front of the camera, this approach makes all the difference and is a key reason they return time and again. You can contact Sarah to chat through her process before you book, to make sure you feel confident and comfortable.

Being based in Newcastle city centre has also played an important role in the studio’s success. With excellent transport links and a central location that’s easy for clients to access, Clavering House has provided a practical and professional base for Sarah Deane Photographic to grow over the years.

Sarah has chosen to remain at Clavering House not only because the space suits her business, but also for its central location and the sense of community within the building.

“The support from reception and building management has been an important part of my business and the reason I have stayed and plan to stay for so long.”

It’s always rewarding to see businesses grow and establish themselves within the building, and Sarah’s journey is a great example of what can be achieved with the right space, the right environment, and a clear vision.

Stories like Sarah’s are a reminder that while the space itself is important, it’s the people within it that bring it to life.

If, like Sarah, you’re looking for a professional, well-located base for your business, you can view our current availability here or get in touch to arrange a viewing.

Newcastle Office Market Update: What to Expect in 2026

By Li Ainley-Walker, Centre Manager

The Newcastle office market continues to demonstrate resilience as we move into 2026. While activity levels are more measured than in peak-cycle years, the data suggests a balanced and stable environment rather than a market in decline.

Recent regional research shows that Newcastle office take-up in 2025 remained above the long-term average, with vacancy levels sitting at a moderate level. This indicates that demand is present, but occupiers are approaching decisions with greater care and scrutiny than in previous years.

So what does this mean in practice?

A Balanced Market

We are currently operating in what can best be described as a balanced market. It is neither landlord-driven nor tenant-distressed.

Vacancy levels provide occupiers with choice, but they do not indicate oversupply. Prime rents remain stable, and investment activity across the UK has shown steady, if modest, growth.

For businesses considering relocation or expansion, this creates a stable environment in which to make decisions.

Longer Decision Cycles

One of the most noticeable changes over the past 12–18 months has been the lengthening of decision-making timelines.

With UK economic growth forecast to be positive but modest in 2026, many businesses are planning carefully rather than expanding aggressively. Office relocations are being assessed with greater attention to cost control, flexibility and long-term value.

This does not mean that demand has disappeared. Rather, it reflects a more considered approach.

Quality and Flexibility Matter

In this environment, quality presentation and operational flexibility carry increased importance.

Businesses are comparing a wider range of options before committing, often reviewing multiple buildings and operators. Clear communication of what is included, flexible terms, and transparency around costs are increasingly influential factors.

At Clavering House, we have seen that occupiers value stability, professional management and straightforward agreements in a market where certainty is highly prized.

Outlook for 2026

Looking ahead, forecasts suggest gradual improvement rather than dramatic recovery. Economic growth remains positive, investment markets are stabilising, and there are no indicators of structural distress in the Newcastle office sector.

For businesses evaluating space this year, the current market presents an opportunity: a competitive environment with strong options and sensible flexibility. The Newcastle office sector remains active, resilient and well-positioned for steady progression through 2026.

As always, the key is clarity; understanding your operational needs, growth plans and desired working environment before entering the market. If your business is reviewing its workspace strategy this year, our team at Clavering House would be happy to provide a no-obligation discussion about current options and market conditions.

This overview draws on recent regional office market reports published in late 2025 and early 2026 by leading UK property consultancies.

Return to the Office Without Locking Yourself In

Over the past year, many businesses have been re-evaluating how and where their teams work. While fully remote working remains part of the picture for some, there has been a clear shift towards more structured office attendance. Not as a step backwards, but as a way to rebuild collaboration, consistency and company culture.

The challenge is that today’s business environment moves far faster than traditional office commitments allow.

Teams grow, contract and change direction. Working patterns evolve. What felt like the right amount of space six months ago may already feel restrictive or excessive. This is where many businesses begin to feel stuck between wanting a physical office and not wanting the long-term risk that often comes with it.

The problem with traditional office leases

Traditional commercial leases are rarely designed with modern businesses in mind. Long commitments, limited flexibility and significant costs associated with changes or exit can make them feel like a gamble, particularly in uncertain or fast-moving markets.

For businesses navigating return-to-office expectations, committing to a fixed amount of space for several years can be difficult to justify. Over-commit, and you risk paying for space you do not need. Under-commit, and growth becomes disruptive and expensive.

What many organisations are looking for is not less structure, but more adaptability.

Flexible offices for evolving businesses

At Clavering House, we support businesses that want a professional, city-centre office without being locked into inflexible arrangements. Our serviced offices provide a stable base while allowing companies to adapt as their needs change.

Rather than hot desking or coworking, we offer private, fully serviced offices on flexible terms. This means businesses can establish a consistent workplace for their team while retaining the ability to respond to change.

Flexibility, in this context, is not about informality. It is about reducing risk.

Space that can change as you do

One of the key advantages of a flexible business centre is the ability to move within the building as circumstances evolve. As teams grow, it is often possible to relocate to a larger office without the disruption of a full move. Equally, if requirements reduce, businesses can downsize without carrying unnecessary overheads.

This approach allows companies to focus on their work, rather than on renegotiating leases or planning relocations every time their structure shifts.

For many of our clients, this internal flexibility is just as valuable as the terms themselves. It provides reassurance that the office can adapt alongside the business, rather than holding it back.

A practical approach to the modern workplace

Return-to-office expectations are no longer about enforcing attendance for its own sake. They are about creating spaces where people can work productively together, while still recognising that flexibility matters.

For growing businesses, start-ups and established teams alike, the question is not whether an office is needed, but how to commit to one without limiting future options.

Flexible serviced offices offer a practical middle ground. They provide the structure and professionalism of a traditional office, with the agility required in today’s evolving business climate.

If you are considering your next office move, or reviewing how your current space supports your team, Clavering House offers flexible office solutions designed to grow and change with you.

You can view our current office availability or get in touch with our team to discuss your requirements.