National firm Shoosmiths has moved to a City office almost five times as big as its old London premises – despite plans to introduce homeworking long-term.

Shoosmiths now occupies seven floors in No. 1 Bow Churchyard, in a bid to significantly increase its presence in London. The office is 40,000 square feet and has two floors of dedicated client space.

Joseph Mazzucca, partner and head of Shoosmiths’ London office, said: ‘Since 2014, the firm has been on a very exciting journey in the London market. We have thrived here and grown consistently, building strong and authentic relationships with our clients through our combination of practicality and personality.

'The new office will give us more new and exciting opportunities in this vibrant market, and further opportunities to be part of and contribute to London’s culturally diverse business community. It will also provide us with greater access to a rich talent pool to enhance the diverse range of specialisms and expertise for our clients.'

The firm previously occupied 8,126 square feet on the 6th floor of 1 St Martins le Grand, near St Paul’s. It has also signed a lease for a new office in Glasgow and has moved to new premises in Milton Keynes, Leeds and Belfast. 

Despite the roll-out of homeworking, investors say that businesses are increasingly seeking new premises in the City. US firm Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP and Affiliates, for example, is to move its London team to 22 Bishopsgate – one of London’s newest skyscrapers. The firm, which currently has an office in Canary Wharf, has agreed a 15-year lease and will occupy the 38-40th floors of the building from late next year.

Meanwhile, Hogan Lovells and Clifford Chance are reviewing their London premises before their leases end in 2026 and 2028 respectively.

A spokesperson for Hogan Lovells said: 'Our London office remains of considerable strategic importance to the firm and to our clients. Having occupied the Atlantic House building since 2001, we are excited at the opportunity to redefine how our space can best support our business, following significant research and pilots since our recent refurbishment.'

‘Having the space and technology that is flexible enough to adapt as the future needs of our people and our clients change is critical and is at the centre of our plans.’