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Houston’s Energy Corridor is a dynamic and fast-growing area that has become one of the city’s most prominent commercial real estate submarkets. Known for its rich history in the energy sector, the Energy Corridor has evolved into a thriving hub of business activity, with increasing demand for office space, vibrant corporate culture, and easy access to major highways. Whether it’s oil and gas companies, tech startups, or professional services, businesses are flocking to this part of the city. But what makes the Energy Corridor so special, and why are companies choosing to set up shop here? Let’s take a closer look at this unique submarket’s rise, its current performance, and its appeal to businesses and employees alike. A Brief History of the Energy Corridor The Energy Corridor’s roots trace back to Houston’s oil and gas boom in the 1970s, when companies in the energy sector began to cluster around the area west of downtown. Its proximity to key transportation routes, including the I-10 freeway, and its access to Houston’s vast oil and gas infrastructure, made it an ideal location for energy companies. The Energy Corridor officially became recognized as a submarket during the early 1980s, as major energy giants like ExxonMobil, BP, and Shell built offices in the area. Over the years, the Energy Corridor has diversified, and while it remains deeply tied to the energy sector, it has attracted a broader range of industries. The area now hosts numerous corporate headquarters, research centers, and offices for multinational firms, making it a central business district with a global reach. The Energy Corridor Today: Thriving in the Commercial Real Estate Sector Today, the Energy Corridor is not just a historical hotspot for energy companies but a thriving, high-demand location for commercial real estate. The commercial office market here continues to perform robustly, with new developments, high-quality office buildings, and renovated spaces in demand. A mix of Class A office buildings, corporate campuses, and flexible coworking spaces give businesses a variety of options for their operations. The Energy Corridor boasts some of the city’s most desirable office buildings, many of which are home to industry giants and global corporations. With nearly 30 million square feet of office space, the submarket has witnessed a steady demand for space, driven by both local expansions and businesses relocating to the area from other parts of the city and beyond. Major developments, such as the redevelopment of older office properties and the construction of new, state-of-the-art buildings, signal a continued commitment to growth in the area. The Energy Corridor has been one of the most active, if not the most active, submarkets in the country for leasing after the Covid-19 pandemic. Thanks to companies’ westward migration in Houston and the availability of high-quality buildings, this area has seen a resurgence. In fact, the Energy Corridor boasts the second-highest number of 4- and 5-star office buildings in Houston—only behind the Central Business District—due to a construction boom during the shale revolution about a decade ago, according to CoStar. (Houston Business Journal, 2025). Recently, Hartman Properties secured a 15,200 square foot lease renewal with BD Energy, a major energy company that has been a valued tenant at Ashford On The Bayou since 2014. BD Energy originally opened their first physical office space in 5,000 square feet after operating out of a garage, and has steadily grown within the building. BD Energy’s expansion and lease renewal for an additional five years highlights the optimism surrounding the energy sector’s future and the growth potential within the Energy Corridor.  “We are excited to continue our long-term relationship with BD Energy, a cornerstone tenant of ours at Ashford On The Bayou,” said Al Hartman, CEO of Hartman Income REIT. “BD Energy’s growth is a testament to the energy industry’s resilience and innovation. We’re proud to provide a home for them in such a prime location and look forward to supporting their continued success in the years to come.”  What Makes the Energy Corridor Special? There are several reasons why the Energy Corridor has become such an attractive destination for companies looking to establish their headquarters or expand their presence in Houston: Easy Accessibility for Employees and ClientsThe Energy Corridor’s central location along the I-10 freeway makes commuting relatively easy for employees coming from different parts of the city. With direct access to both major highways and proximity to Houston’s major airports, companies can ensure seamless transportation for employees, clients, and business partners alike. Additionally, the area’s public transportation options, including bus lines and future expansion of light rail services, make it even more accessible to a wider range of professionals. Strong Economic and Workforce PresenceHouston’s diverse and growing workforce has long been a key draw for businesses, and the Energy Corridor is no exception. Home to a wide range of talent, from engineers to finance experts to tech innovators, the Energy Corridor offers companies access to a pool of skilled professionals. Additionally, the area’s top-tier educational institutions, like the University of Houston and Rice University, ensure a continual flow of qualified candidates to meet business needs. Competitive Office Space OptionsThe Energy Corridor is home to a variety of office spaces, from modern office towers to larger corporate campuses and more flexible coworking environments. This diverse range of available office spaces allows companies of all sizes to find the ideal space for their needs. Whether a company is looking for a flagship headquarters or a smaller satellite office, the Energy Corridor provides ample options, with many buildings offering contemporary amenities such as on-site fitness centers, cafes, and high-tech infrastructure. Proximity to Industry GiantsThe Energy Corridor is uniquely positioned as a global center for the energy industry. Many multinational companies in the energy, engineering, and technology sectors have their offices in this area, creating a dynamic, collaborative ecosystem. ExxonMobil, BP America, and Shell are just a few of the industry leaders headquartered in the submarket. Additionally, the influx of technology and professional services companies in recent years has given the area a modern,

Relocating your office is an exciting yet challenging process. Whether your company is expanding, downsizing, or simply in need of a change of scenery, office moves often come with various financial considerations. These expenses are generally classified as either hard or soft costs, each of which can significantly impact your business operations. At Hartman Properties, we understand that navigating these costs is essential to ensuring a smooth transition. In this blog post, we’ll explore these two types of costs, along with potential disruptions that can affect your business during the relocation process. Hard Costs in Office Relocation Hard costs are tangible, direct expenses that you can easily calculate and often involve physical items or services necessary for the move. When relocating offices, several hard costs can disrupt your business operations. Hiring Movers and Furniture Vendors:One of the first things that come to mind when moving offices is the physical task of transporting furniture, equipment, and other office necessities. Hiring movers and furniture vendors can be a significant expense, and it’s important to account for this in your budget. While this cost is necessary, it can also create disruptions in your daily business operations. Your business may experience a dip in productivity or delays in meeting project deadlines as employees are tasked with preparing the office for the move. Re-establishing IT Setup:A major hard cost associated with office relocation is re-establishing your IT infrastructure. The process of transferring servers, setting up a new network, and ensuring all systems are up and running is often complex and time-consuming. This disruption could force employees to work from home temporarily, leading to a drop in productivity and connectivity issues. Furthermore, a prolonged IT transition could risk losing valuable employees due to the inconvenience, or it could cause frustration among team members who are used to seamless operations. Soft Costs in Office Relocation While hard costs are easy to measure, soft costs are more difficult to quantify but can have a considerable long-term impact on your business. These costs are usually indirect and result from the operational disruptions caused by the move. Project Management Costs:The coordination required for a successful office move isn’t a simple task. It involves various stakeholders within your team, from space planning to logistical coordination. Managing these elements can be time-consuming, especially if your company lacks a dedicated project manager. The additional administrative burden can impact productivity as your team juggles the logistics of the move alongside their regular responsibilities. Data Migration Fees:Transferring all the data from your current office network to the new setup can also carry soft costs. Migrating data to a new system is not only time-consuming but could also involve additional fees for external specialists or services to ensure a smooth transition. Data security concerns may arise, and business operations may need to be temporarily paused to safeguard this information. Training Costs:Once the move is complete, employees may require training on new office systems, technologies, and procedures. Whether it’s training staff on a new IT setup, updated software, or simply adjusting to a new workspace layout, these training sessions can be costly and take time away from employees’ regular tasks. This also includes acclimating staff to their new work environment, which may involve some period of decreased productivity until they become comfortable. Marketing and Client Communication:Informing clients and stakeholders about the office relocation is another soft cost that should not be overlooked. Updating your website, social media accounts, email signatures, and business cards, as well as informing clients directly, involves time, effort, and additional marketing costs. This communication is crucial to maintaining your company’s professional image and ensuring that clients are aware of how to reach you at your new location. Balancing Hard and Soft Costs Successfully managing both hard and soft costs during an office move is key to minimizing disruptions to your business. By carefully planning your budget and scheduling the relocation at a time that causes minimal impact on productivity, you can mitigate some of these costs. Additionally, clear communication with your team and clients about the transition will help reduce potential disruptions and maintain business continuity. At Hartman Properties, we’ve guided countless companies through the office relocation process, and we know how important it is to manage both the tangible and intangible costs effectively. By keeping these factors in mind, we can help you ensure your move is as seamless as possible. In conclusion, while both hard and soft costs are inevitable in any office relocation, understanding the potential impacts and properly budgeting for them can make the process smoother for your business and employees. If you’re preparing for an office move, consider these factors to ensure you’re prepared for both the tangible and intangible expenses involved. For more information on office space options, visit hartman-properties.com. Our team at Hartman Properties is here to guide you every step of the way.

Over the past few years, the work-from-home (WFH) trend has transformed the business landscape. While many employees enjoyed the flexibility it offered, the shift also brought with it a host of challenges. For companies and employees alike, there’s been a growing realization that the traditional office space still plays a crucial role in fostering collaboration, productivity, and company culture. As the demand for office space picks up once again, commercial real estate in Texas is embracing new solutions to meet these evolving needs. The Downsides of Working From Home Working from home seemed like a dream for many when it first became widespread. The convenience of no daily commute, the comfort of home, and the flexibility to balance family life were attractive perks. However, several negative trends have surfaced that are encouraging businesses to reconsider remote-only work models: Decreased Collaboration and Innovation: While remote work has its merits, it often leads to a lack of spontaneous interactions that happen naturally in the office. These impromptu conversations are where innovation thrives, and their absence can hinder creativity and problem-solving. Employee Isolation and Burnout: Many remote workers report feelings of isolation, especially in the absence of a physical office to foster connection and community. Loneliness can result in disengagement. Challenges with Work-Life Balance: The ease of working from home also makes it harder for some individuals to “turn off” from work. Without the separation between home and office, work hours can stretch beyond the typical 9-5, eroding personal time and increasing stress levels. It can also blur the line between home and work life and can lead to burnout.  Declining Company Culture: Office spaces play a significant role in shaping a company’s culture. Remote work can dilute that culture, making it harder for new employees to assimilate, and for veteran staff to stay connected with company values. Stunted Employee Advancement and Education: One of the most significant downsides of remote work is the lack of face-to-face leadership and coaching. In an office setting, employees have more opportunities for mentorship, skill-building, and professional development. Remote work, however, often limits these interactions. Employees miss out on learning from their leaders through informal conversations, feedback, and the opportunity to observe others in action. As a result, career growth can be stunted, as employees aren’t receiving the guidance, coaching, or educational opportunities that are essential for advancement in their roles. Additionally, productivity can be negatively affected in a remote environment. Many employees find it difficult to focus due to distractions from their home life—children, pets, household chores, or personal responsibilities. These distractions can lead to less effective work hours and a decline in output. Without the structure and environment of an office, employees may struggle to maintain the same level of discipline and focus, further hampering both professional development and productivity. The Growing Trend: Bringing Employees Back to the Office As businesses work to overcome these challenges, there’s a noticeable shift back to office spaces—albeit with some adjustments. The modern office isn’t just about desks and cubicles anymore. It’s about creating environments that attract employees back and give them a reason to come into work. Here are some key trends we’re seeing in the Texas commercial real estate market as businesses aim to bring employees back to the office: Flexible, Hybrid Work Models: Companies are embracing hybrid models that combine both remote and in-office work. These models allow employees to benefit from the best of both worlds, maintaining flexibility while still fostering in-person collaboration when necessary. Suburban Offices Over Central Business Districts (CBDs): Commuting is one of the biggest obstacles to employees returning to the office. In response, many companies are opting for suburban office spaces instead of those located in congested city centers. Suburban office buildings are often more accessible for employees who live outside of urban areas, reducing commute times and easing the daily burden of getting into the office. Reimagining the Office Space: Today’s office buildings are designed to meet the needs of modern workers. Collaborative spaces, quiet rooms, lounges, and even outdoor areas have become integral parts of the office environment. The focus is shifting toward creating flexible spaces that can accommodate various work styles, rather than being limited to traditional desks and conference rooms. Trends We’re Seeing in Major Companies: Pushing for More Time in the Office As businesses adjust to new workplace realities, many larger companies are making significant changes to their office attendance policies. Companies across the U.S. and globally are setting new expectations for employees to return to the office, with varying degrees of flexibility. Return-to-Office Requirements: Many major companies are now requiring employees to be in the office more frequently. For instance, Apple has mandated that employees return to the office at least three days a week, while Google and Amazon have set similar guidelines, with employees expected in-office 3-4 days per week. As companies recognize the value of in-person interaction, we are seeing an increasing trend toward more days in the office, with some companies going as far as requiring employees to be in the office for four days per week, up from the previously common two or three days. The Rise of Hybrid Models: Although full-time remote work remains rare, hybrid work models are the most common solution. Companies like Salesforce, Microsoft, and Facebook have implemented hybrid systems that allow employees the flexibility to work remotely part of the week but still emphasize the importance of being in the office for collaboration and team-building. These companies have found that a mix of both worlds provides employees with the flexibility they want, while maintaining a strong office culture. Increased Emphasis on Employee Well-being: The shift back to the office isn’t just about increasing in-office days—many companies are also investing heavily in employee well-being by creating office environments that focus on health, flexibility, and convenience. For example, companies like LinkedIn are offering employees access to fitness centers, wellness programs, and flexible spaces designed to foster creativity and collaboration. Industry and Regional Differences: The office attendance trends

As we step into 2025, Texas’ commercial real estate (CRE) market stands as a symbol of resilience and opportunity. In a rapidly evolving world marked by shifting economic landscapes, workforce trends, and political changes, Texas remains a robust hub for both traditional and emerging industries. From the tech-centric cities of Austin and Dallas to the oil-rich plains of Midland, the Lone Star State continues to offer a dynamic and thriving real estate environment. The future of Texas commercial real estate is shaped by several key trends: the resurgence of office space, the enduring strength of the energy sector, and the political environment that continues to foster business growth. In this blog, we’ll explore these factors and the exciting opportunities they bring to the Texas CRE market in 2025.   The Texas Office Market in 2025: A Resilient and Thriving Landscape The office market in Texas has undergone a dramatic transformation over the past few years. With hybrid work models becoming commonplace, businesses have had to reimagine their office spaces to meet the evolving needs of employees. Yet, as we move into 2025, there’s a noticeable shift toward a return to full-time office work for many organizations, as companies recognize the value of in-person collaboration and team culture. The Return of Full-Time In-Office Work While hybrid work models have been a key trend in recent years, the demand for physical office space is not only holding steady—it’s evolving. Companies are increasingly realizing that face-to-face collaboration fosters creativity, strengthens company culture, and enhances productivity. The office is no longer just a place to work; it’s a space that facilitates connection and innovation. Reimagining Office Layouts Rather than downsizing or shifting to shared spaces, many companies are opting for larger, more personalized office environments. Employees now seek private workstations, dedicated offices, and flexible spaces designed for both focused work and collaboration. This move towards personalization and flexibility is redefining office space demand in Texas. Premium Office Spaces and Employee Wellness The trend toward premium office environments is gaining momentum. Businesses are seeking office spaces equipped with modern amenities—wellness rooms, gyms, bike storage, and green spaces—that prioritize employee health and well-being. In highly competitive markets like Texas, offering a comfortable and inspiring office environment is key to attracting and retaining top talent.   The Rise of the Suburban Office Market While urban central business districts (CBDs) have traditionally been the heart of commercial real estate, suburban office markets are rapidly becoming the new favorite for both employers and employees. As hybrid and full-time in-office work models continue to evolve, many companies are looking to suburban locations that offer better work-life balance and reduced commuting time. A Better Work-Life Balance Suburban office spaces, such as those in Frisco (Dallas), The Woodlands (Houston), and Round Rock (Austin), are seeing increased demand. Employees are increasingly drawn to these locations for their proximity to home and the promise of shorter, more manageable commutes. This shift offers employees a better quality of life, while also allowing companies to tap into a broader talent pool. Large, Affordable Spaces Suburban office spaces tend to offer larger, more affordable options compared to the high cost of leasing in downtown areas. For growing businesses or those looking to provide employees with spacious, comfortable work environments, the suburban market presents a compelling opportunity. Flexibility and Customization Another draw of the suburban market is its flexibility. Many suburban office spaces offer more favorable lease terms and greater customization options, allowing companies to create workspaces tailored to their unique needs. From modern office parks to creative flex spaces, businesses have more control over their environments than ever before.   Innovation, Flexibility, and Growth: Texas’ Office Market in 2025 The Texas office market in 2025 reflects the convergence of several important trends: the increasing demand for flexible workspaces, a strong emphasis on employee wellness, and the growing need for innovative, tech-enabled environments. Cities like Austin, Dallas, and Houston are emerging as major hubs for tech, finance, and creative industries, driving demand for office spaces that align with these sectors’ forward-thinking culture. Tech and Creative Industries Driving Demand As Texas continues to attract tech startups and creative industries, there is a surge in demand for high-tech, flexible office spaces. Companies in these sectors are seeking office environments that foster innovation, collaboration, and employee engagement. In cities like Austin, where the tech scene thrives, office spaces must meet the needs of a diverse and highly skilled workforce. Sustainable Growth in the Suburbs The growth of suburban office markets is contributing to the state’s CRE boom, as businesses seek locations that offer more space, better amenities, and easier access for employees. This suburban trend represents a balanced approach to urban and rural development, offering companies the best of both worlds.   Oil and Gas: Texas’ Backbone and a Key Driver of Real Estate Demand Texas’ oil and gas sector has long been a cornerstone of its economy, and it continues to play a pivotal role in the commercial real estate market. While the world transitions toward renewable energy, oil and gas remain crucial to the state’s economic foundation, particularly in cities like Houston and Midland. Resilient Energy Sector Houston, often referred to as the energy capital of the U.S., remains a hub for energy companies, both traditional and emerging. Despite fluctuations in global oil prices, the energy sector continues to drive demand for office and industrial space. This resilience provides stability to Texas’ commercial real estate market. Innovation in the Energy Sector Texas is also positioning itself as a leader in energy innovation, particularly in renewable energy technologies like wind, solar, and energy storage. These emerging sectors are driving demand for specialized office spaces, research facilities, and modern industrial properties. Cities like Houston and Austin are becoming key destinations for companies in the energy innovation space, further fueling demand for real estate.   The Role of Federal Policies and the New President: A Positive Influence for Texas CRE National political shifts, including the policies of the new president, will

When it comes to designing a small office space of under 2,500 square feet, the layout is a critical factor that can influence employee productivity, satisfaction, and overall company culture. Unlike larger offices that may offer more flexibility with their layout options, small office spaces require more careful consideration of how every square foot is used. Key decisions include whether to go for an open bullpen or individual offices, and how to incorporate additional spaces that foster collaboration, focus, and well-being. In this blog, we’ll walk through the different types of office layouts available for small office spaces, the pros and cons of each, and how you can optimize your space to meet the needs of your team. 1. Open Bullpen: The Collaborative Space An open bullpen layout, where employees work in a large, shared space with desks arranged in clusters or rows, is one of the most popular choices for small offices. The appeal of this layout lies in its ability to maximize space and encourage interaction among team members. Pros: Collaboration: Open bullpens foster communication and teamwork, as employees can easily converse with one another and share ideas. Space Efficiency: Since there are fewer walls and partitions, more desks can be accommodated in the available area, making it ideal for smaller offices. Cost-Effective: A bullpen setup typically requires fewer materials like walls, partitions, or private offices, reducing construction and design costs. Cons: Noise and Distractions: Without walls or barriers, noise levels can rise quickly in a bullpen, potentially distracting employees who need focused time. Lack of Privacy: For tasks requiring confidentiality or undisturbed work, an open bullpen may not be suitable. Less Personalization: Employees may feel like they have less ownership over their workspace, as it can feel more uniform and shared. Best for: Creative teams, marketing departments, or startups where collaboration and communication are vital. Environments where fast-paced work and open discussion are valued. 2. Individual Offices: The Private Workspace An alternative to the open bullpen is the individual office, which provides employees with their own private workspace, typically enclosed by walls or partitions. This layout works best when the work requires more focus or confidentiality. Pros: Privacy: Ideal for employees who need to concentrate or have confidential meetings. Reduced Noise: Individual offices offer a quieter work environment, helping those who need peace to be productive. Personalization: Employees have more control over their workspace, which can lead to greater job satisfaction and comfort. Cons: Space Constraints: With smaller office spaces, you may only be able to afford a limited number of individual offices, making it difficult to accommodate all employees in this format. Reduced Collaboration: This setup can isolate team members from one another, which may hinder spontaneous collaboration or communication. Higher Costs: More walls and partitions mean higher costs in terms of construction and design. Best for: Executive teams, HR departments, or any department where confidentiality or deep focus is important. Companies that value privacy or need to separate different types of work, like legal or finance teams. 3. Hybrid Layout: Combining Open and Private Spaces For many small offices, a hybrid layout that combines elements of both open bullpens and individual offices is the most effective approach. This layout allows for flexibility and caters to a variety of work styles and needs. Pros: Balance of Privacy and Collaboration: Employees who need focus can work in private offices, while those who thrive in collaborative environments can work in an open bullpen. Space Efficiency: You can incorporate both types of work areas without overwhelming the space, using partitions or glass walls to section off private areas while still maintaining an open feel. Adaptability: Hybrid layouts can adapt to different work styles, which is ideal for growing teams or businesses that need versatility. Cons: Complex Design: A hybrid layout can be more difficult to plan and design, as you need to balance the needs for private spaces and open areas. Potential for Overcrowding: Small spaces can quickly feel cramped if not carefully planned, as you’ll need to fit a mix of workspaces into limited square footage. Best for: Teams that require both collaborative and focused work environments, like tech startups or creative agencies. Offices where team members have different needs, including privacy, collaboration, and flexibility. 4. Activity-Based Workspaces (ABW): Flexible Workspaces for Different Needs An Activity-Based Workspace (ABW) is a flexible office layout designed to accommodate various work activities. In this type of setup, employees are not assigned to specific desks or offices. Instead, the office features different zones, each dedicated to specific tasks, like focus work, collaboration, or socializing. Pros: Tailored to Tasks: Employees can choose the space that suits the work they’re doing, whether they need a quiet space for focus or a collaborative area for brainstorming. Flexibility: ABWs offer maximum flexibility, which is ideal for teams that need to shift between individual tasks and group work. Employee Satisfaction: Offering a variety of spaces can increase employee satisfaction by providing autonomy over their work environment. Cons: Potential for Chaos: Without proper organization, an ABW can feel disorganized and chaotic, especially if employees are unsure where to go for specific tasks. Requires Clear Guidelines: Employees may need guidance on how to navigate an ABW, especially in terms of noise levels and expectations for each area. Best for: Teams with diverse roles or needs, where the flexibility of choosing different spaces for different activities can be most beneficial. Offices with a strong culture of collaboration and trust, where employees are given more freedom and responsibility for managing their own work environments. 5. Optional Spaces for Teams and Individual Focus When designing a small office, there are a few optional spaces that can enhance the functionality of the layout and make the space more dynamic: Meeting Rooms: Small meeting rooms or huddle spaces allow for team discussions, brainstorming sessions, and client meetings without disturbing the main workspace. Quiet Rooms or Focus Pods: These spaces are designed for deep focus or private calls, which are essential in open-office environments.

When you’re a small business owner, finding the right office space is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. A small office not only provides a place for you to work but also helps set the tone for your business, influences productivity, and impacts your brand identity. Whether you’re starting out or scaling up, the right office space can make all the difference. However, finding the perfect small office space for rent can be challenging. From location to layout, there’s a lot to consider. In this guide, we’ll walk through the essential elements every small office should have and offer advice on how to stand out when looking for an office space to rent. Key Things to Have in Your Small Business Office Standout Features to Look for When Renting Small Office Space