TL;DR

Penthouse offices occupy a distinct position in Malta’s commercial property landscape. Their greatest appeal lies in the outdoor spaces they typically offer and, where applicable, the best views available in a building; particularly in seafront developments where height permits allow an extra level. This blog explores why occupiers value penthouse offices, how they put them to use, and what they need to consider before selecting this category.

Why Penthouse Offices Stand Apart

Penthouse offices attract a certain type of occupier – those who want more than a functional workspace. Many businesses begin their search with a standard requirement list, yet the moment they encounter a penthouse terrace, the conversation shifts.

The outdoor area becomes a defining characteristic. It adds a layer of usability that no mid-level floor can match – somewhere teams can decompress, meet informally, or simply reconnect with their surroundings. For organisations that prioritise workplace wellbeing, this becomes a meaningful differentiator.

When it comes to views, penthouse offices vary. Not every building offers an elevated sightline worth noting. But in cases where the building is taller than its surroundings, or in seafront zones where height permits create an additional top tier, the penthouse can command perspectives unavailable to any other floor. These views are not guaranteed everywhere, but when present, they become an immediate asset for companies seeking presence and identity.

How Occupiers Use Penthouse Offices in Practice

Over the years, we have seen two general patterns in the way companies use penthouse offices, depending on how the building is structured.

In Multi-Floor Headquarters

When companies occupy several floors within the same building, the penthouse often becomes the client-facing and board-level area. The proximity to the terrace creates a natural backdrop for hosting, decision-making, and leadership activity. The sense of elevation supports confidentiality, focus, and professional presentation.

In Single-Floor Offices Where the Penthouse Is the Entire Workspace

In situations where the penthouse is the organisation’s sole floor, management frequently uses the area closest to the terrace as recreational or staff-focused space. This is deliberate.
A terrace paired with a front-facing social area can significantly improve morale, help teams decompress, and reinforce the company’s commitment to quality of life. Many tenants see this as a cultural investment rather than a design choice.

Both approaches are valid. The key is that the penthouse layout guides how the organisation chooses to express its values; either through leadership presence or team-oriented environments.

Key Considerations Before Choosing a Penthouse Office

Penthouse offices deliver unique lifestyle and business advantages, but occupiers should also understand the operational realities and cost dynamics.

Brightness and Exposure to the Elements

Penthouse floors are typically the brightest spaces in the building. With no overhead structure to buffer sunlight or weather, they tend to be warmer in summer and cooler in winter. This full exposure is part of their character and can be planned for with proper climate-control strategies.

Screen Glare and View Preservation

The abundance of natural light can create screen glare. Blinds or curtains solve the problem but may reduce the benefits tenants value most. Layout planning, rather than heavy shading, often provides a better balance between workstation usability and view preservation.

Rental Rate Considerations

Penthouse offices usually command the highest rate per square metre within the building. However, they often have slightly less internal area than the floors below due to larger outdoor zones on the same footprint.

Outdoor spaces are not billed at the same rate per square metre as internal space (they are generally charged at a lower rate) but the top-floor internal space itself remains the premium component within the entire building.

Occupiers should review how the internal–external split affects total cost, especially when comparing options within the same development.

Outdoor Space Planning

Terraces require practical consideration, including cleaning, safety, and weather-related maintenance. They perform best when integrated intentionally into daily operations rather than treated as a passive add-on.

Availability and Competition

By definition, every building has only one penthouse. Supply is therefore limited, and demand for well-located penthouses, especially in seafront districts, is consistently strong. Decision timelines need to reflect this reality.

Penthouse Offices in the Malta Market

Malta’s main commercial clusters: Sliema, St. Julian’s, Mrieħel, Valletta, Gżira, and Ta’ Xbiex – each contain a modest yet steady supply of penthouse offices. In seafront localities, planning policies often allow buildings to reach greater height, creating penthouse floors with distinctive vantage points.

At MaltaOffices.com, our work often involves helping occupiers assess whether a penthouse is suitable for their operational profile and long-term strategy. This includes guidance on floor layout, workstation planning, cost structures, outdoor-space utilisation, and how exposure impacts day-to-day usage.

Landlord Perspective

For landlords, the penthouse is a strategic asset. It elevates the building’s overall profile and attracts tenants who value identity and long-term stability. A well-leased penthouse often sets the tone for the rest of the tenant mix.

Tenant Perspective

For tenants, the appeal is twofold: the functional benefits of outdoor space and the experiential value of elevated positioning. Whether used for leadership, client engagement, or team wellbeing, the penthouse environment contributes directly to workplace culture and company identity.

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For enquiries or tailored recommendations, call +356 7942 3033.

Supporting Image Reminder

A suitable image should communicate elevation, outdoor space, or a sense of openness consistent with penthouse positioning.

Conclusion

Penthouse offices offer a distinctive combination of outdoor space, elevated positioning; and, where present, exceptional views. They carry specific operational considerations, including exposure and layout planning, yet their advantages are significant for companies seeking a space that contributes to culture, identity, and employee experience.

With limited availability and strong demand across Malta, careful evaluation and expert guidance ensure occupiers secure the right penthouse environment for their needs.
For personalised support, contact MaltaOffices.com at +356 7942 3033.