BP Perspective Insights from a Business Partner

Unlocking Potential: Financing the Modern Office

The power of a well-designed office shouldn’t be underestimated. Modern workplaces are carefully curated — placing emphasis on flexibility, collaboration and employee well-being. From sleek, open floor plans to seamless technology integrations, strategic financing can help you invest in your office environment and your firm’s long-term success. 

Christina Floyd and Karen Leastman
Christina Floyd and Karen Leastman

Vice Presidents
First American Legal Finance

INTENTIONAL DESIGN FOR WORKPLACE SUCCESS

With 51% of companies prioritizing investments in cutting-edge office spaces, embracing modernization is crucial. This trend reflects a shift away from older offices toward spaces with superior technology and amenities. For law firms, this isn't just about staying current — it's also about meeting client expectations and staying competitive in a rapidly evolving legal industry.

Here are some key features defining today's dynamic law firm workplaces:

  • Open Floor Plans: Breaking down barriers encourages interaction while offering dedicated spaces for focused work, mentorship and group collaboration. 
  • State-of-the-Art Technology: Seamless collaboration is powered by advanced tools like wireless charging stations, immersive smart boards and videoconferencing systems. 
“In today’s competitive landscape, savvy legal executives understand that strategic financing goes beyond cost management — it can help realize ROI faster and drive sustainable long-term growth.” 
  • Sustainability Initiatives: Eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient lighting, robust recycling programs and green spaces integrated into office design demonstrate a commitment to environmental responsibility. 
  • Employee Wellness: Modern offices prioritize physical and mental health with amenities like fitness centers, meditation rooms, rooftop terraces and even nap pods.

MAXIMIZING VALUE THROUGH STRATEGIC FINANCING

In today’s competitive landscape, savvy legal executives understand that strategic financing goes beyond cost management — it can help realize return on investment (ROI) faster and drive sustainable long-term growth. By leveraging tailored financing solutions, law firms can optimize their office design and functionality while unlocking a variety of benefits: 

  • Tax Optimization: Firms can use financing to achieve tax and accounting benefits that boost their financial performance.
  • Maximize Partner Distributions: By spreading project costs over time, firms can alleviate financial strain and ensure that investments remain aligned for both current and future partners.
  • Capital Preservation: Saving cash enables firms to allocate resources toward long-term growth initiatives, fostering innovation and maintaining a competitive edge in the market.
  • Financial Flexibility: Custom financing options empower firms to adapt to changing circumstances without the burden of large, upfront expenditures.

Financing the modern office isn't just about securing funds — it's about strategically investing in the future of your firm. By investing in intentional design choices with custom financing, law firms can elevate their workplace experience and create an environment for connection, collaboration and culture. 

 

About the Authors

Christina Floyd, MBA, is a Certified Lease and Finance Professional (CLFP) and has almost a decade of equipment leasing knowledge and dedicated experience working with the legal industry. Additionally, she has successfully completed the Legal Management Finance Specialist Certificate Program through ALA. In her tenure, Floyd has been instrumental in growing First American’s legal business to more than 330 firms.
Email

Karen Leastman has more than a decade of equipment leasing knowledge and dedicated experience working with the law firm industry. Since joining First American in 2003, she has been a key contributor in building First American’s law firm division which now serves more than 330 law firms across the United States, including Am Law 100 and 200 firms. As a Certified Lease and Finance Professional (CLFP), Leastman is a leader in the equipment leasing industry.
Email