Can I practise in 11 sqm?

Yes, many seated-practice professions work very well in 11–13 sqm — psychologists, dietitians, sophrologists, naturopaths. The key is access to shared waiting room and facilities.

How much space does an osteopath need?

A treatment table and adequate circulation typically require 14 to 18 sqm.

Does a larger office improve patient experience?

Not necessarily. Experience depends on atmosphere, cleanliness, acoustic privacy and natural light — not on size alone.

How do I calculate the right size?

List your essential furniture, add circulation space, then check whether shared areas cover your remaining needs.

Are shared spaces too small?

No. The effective total space — private office plus shared areas — is often larger and better equipped than a standalone office.

What size do you need for a medical or paramedical office

Choosing the right size for your office is one of the most impactful decisions you'll make. Too large, and you overspend every month. Too small, and you compromise comfort. The answer depends on your profession, whether you work with equipment, and whether you have access to shared common areas.

Realistic minimum areas by practice type

Space needs vary by profession. Realistic minimums, assuming access to shared common areas:

Psychology, psychotherapy: 11–13 sqm
Dietetics, nutrition: 11–14 sqm
Sophrology, naturopathy: 11–14 sqm
Osteopathy, manual therapy: 14–18 sqm
Speech therapy: 12–16 sqm
Psychomotor therapy: 13–16 sqm
Sexology, counselling: 11–13 sqm

These ranges assume access to shared waiting room, facilities and entrance.

Standalone office vs shared space: the space equation

A standalone office must fit everything — waiting area, facilities, storage — into your own square metres. This often means 25–40 sqm total.

In a shared setting, common functions are pooled. A 13 sqm private office can feel as professional as a 30 sqm standalone space.

The critical role of common areas

A well-designed waiting room, clean facilities and a professional entrance create the first impression for every patient. They directly influence perceived quality.

In a shared space, common areas are maintained collectively — higher quality at lower individual cost. A quality waiting room shared among five practitioners costs €1,000–2,000 each.

The oversizing trap

Every extra square metre increases rent, charges and maintenance every month. A practitioner paying €60/sqm/month for 25 sqm when 14 sqm would suffice wastes nearly €8,000 per year.

Start with the right size and expand if and when needed.

What really determines comfort

Comfort depends on layout quality, natural light, acoustic insulation, ventilation and furniture choices — not raw square metres.

Invest in design quality over quantity of space.

Common mistakes to avoid

Renting too large "just in case" future needs arise
Ignoring the contribution of shared areas to patient experience
Confusing total building area with usable private office area
Underestimating the impact of layout, light and acoustics
Choosing a space based on raw size rather than functional design
Paying for a standalone waiting room when shared alternatives exist

Frequently asked questions

Every set-up project depends on your activity, budget and how much you want to share. The simplest step is often to compare your needs with a space that's already designed for care.

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The I‑CA.RE approach

I‑CA.RE develops and structures care spaces tailored to care, allied health and wellbeing practitioners. Each space is designed with particular attention to quality, functionality, local integration and economic coherence of use.

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