As companies look for their next place to call home, they are taking a lot of factors into consideration. Where is the building located? How accessible is local transportation? What amenities does the building offer?
But above all those factors there is one simple question: Will this space help my company succeed? To have a successful company, you need reliable office space that keeps your employees happy, healthy and productive.
While traditional overhead HVAC systems have been common in commercial office space air distribution for decades, a different option is giving tenants a reason to look below the floors. Underfloor air distribution (UFAD) systems offer an alternative to traditional overhead HVAC systems.
As tenants are demanding smarter, more flexible spaces, the benefits of UFAD are becoming impactful factors. Here are 8 reasons why tenants will want to rent your space.
In today’s competitive commercial real estate market, office spaces that feature modern technology, human-centered design, and high-performance infrastructure don’t just stand out—they lease faster and command premium rents. Upgrading a building with Underfloor Air Distribution (UFAD) offers a visible and functional differentiator that sets listings apart from the pack.
UFAD-equipped buildings have been shown to attract tenants up to 20% faster compared to similar buildings without advanced air distribution systems. And in markets like Dallas-Fort Worth, where vacancy rates are tightening and Class A office space is at a premium, that edge can translate into significantly reduced downtime between tenants and a stronger NOI.
For realtors and brokers, UFAD is a compelling, concrete story to tell. It’s not just a checkbox—it’s a premium, modern feature that not every building offers. It signals future-ready infrastructure and gives leasing teams something fresh and high-value to showcase to potential tenants who are tired of the same old spec suite talk.
UFAD delivers real performance benefits that matter to prospective tenants:
UFAD also strongly appeals to tenants who have experienced the downsides of Overhead Air Distribution (OHAD)—like inconsistent temperatures, disruptive noise, and inflexible HVAC zones. It’s especially attractive to companies who now expect Building Automation Systems (BAS) as standard. UFAD integrates seamlessly with BAS platforms, giving facilities teams granular, zone-by-zone control over temperature, energy use, and occupant experience.
Co-working providers, tech firms, and fast-scaling tenants are actively seeking this level of adaptability and environmental performance—and they’re willing to pay more for it.
In short, UFAD gives leasing agents a strategic, story-driven differentiator—something tangible, uncommon, and performance-proven. In a leasing pitch, it’s a standout feature that meets the moment: smarter, healthier, and more adaptable workspace that aligns with how companies want to work today—and tomorrow.
Installing UFAD systems beneath a Raised Access Floor (RAF) offers far more than just climate control—it creates a flexible infrastructure that supports today’s fast-changing workplace demands. With mechanical, electrical, and IT systems housed neatly below the floor, building services remain out of sight and fully accessible, making upgrades and repairs easier, faster, and less disruptive.
RAF and UFAD systems are ideal for tenants who value speed and flexibility. For property managers, this means reduced time and cost when reconfiguring a space between tenants. Layouts can be changed quickly—without needing to tear into ceilings or demolish walls—keeping renovation timelines short and revenue streams steady.
This setup also empowers architectural and interior designers to integrate more creative, visually clean layouts. Without overhead ductwork or bulky ceiling systems to work around, designers gain greater freedom to define distinct zones, optimize ceiling heights, and create a variety of workspace types—from open collaboration areas to private offices and quiet zones.
This flexibility is especially attractive to organizations with dynamic needs. Co-working spaces, startups, innovation labs, and companies using hybrid work models all benefit from the ability to scale and rearrange with minimal disruption. Even long-term tenants appreciate how easily their space can evolve as teams grow, departments shift, or new technologies are adopted.
In short, RAF combined with UFAD future-proofs the workplace. It simplifies how buildings adapt to shifting business models, tenant expectations, and workplace trends—delivering lasting value for both landlords and occupants alike.
With multiple diffuser locations around an office space, UFAD systems deliver a steady volume of fresh air to the breathing zone. Using the naturally occurring effects of gravity, UFAD systems allow hotter, used air to rise out of the breathing zone, making way for the fresh supplied air. This gives occupants a constant source of fresh, tempered breathing air.
By using naturally occurring effects of gravity, consistent fresh air output and comprehensive air filtration options, occupants of a space with UFAD have healthier, more breathable air–just one of the many benefits of UFAD.
Contractors in the country's fastest-growing markets like Dallas and Fort-Worth know how to price, install and maintain UFAD systems, allowing tenant improvement dollars to go further with the lower cost of RAF and UFAD installation.
According to a report from JLL, the average fit-out costs per rentable square foot for a moderate-style, medium quality office in Fort Worth is $226/sqft and $227/sqft in Dallas. By investing in RAF and UFAD now, tenants can get ahead of the rising costs of fit-out projects. This allows tenants to save money overtime with their investment now.
For building operators, tenants with higher satisfaction rates lead to renewed contracts and reduced tenant churn. So, while tenants benefit from their investment in UFAD, building owners benefit from increased occupancy rates over time.
Traditional overhead HVAC systems often rely on just a few centralized vents, making it nearly impossible to maintain consistent comfort throughout a space. Everyone in an office knows exactly where the warm and cold spots are—and where to avoid sitting. But with Underfloor Air Distribution (UFAD), that frustration becomes a thing of the past.
UFAD systems allow for flexible and abundant placement of air diffusers, meaning tenants can add as many access points as they need—where they need them. Whether it's an open workstation area, private office, or conference room, air is delivered more precisely and more efficiently.
By combining low-velocity airflow with perimeter heating units that create a thermal barrier along windows and exterior walls, UFAD provides true zoned temperature control. This eliminates the uneven hot and cold zones common with overhead systems, promoting greater thermal consistency and personal comfort across the entire floorplate.
The raised access flooring used in UFAD systems also contributes to a quieter and more focused work environment. Unlike traditional systems that require large fans and high-velocity ductwork, UFAD gently delivers air closer to occupants. The result? Dramatically reduced background noise. In fact, AirFixture UFAD systems have a Noise Criterion (NC) rating of NC-17. That’s ideal for modern workspaces where acoustic performance matters—whether you're leading a video call, deep in focus work, or collaborating with colleagues.
When the temperature is just right and the space is quiet, people don’t just feel more comfortable—they perform better. Reduced distractions from fluctuating temperatures and loud mechanical systems lead to improved concentration, higher satisfaction, and ultimately, increased productivity and company success.
UFAD systems reduce energy consumption by 20–30%, lowering operating costs and supporting long-term sustainability. This makes them especially attractive for cost-conscious tenants looking to maximize value without compromising performance.
Zone customization allows energy to be directed where it’s needed most—targeting occupied areas while minimizing waste in unoccupied zones. This not only enhances efficiency but also supports focused work with improved air distribution and acoustics—ideal for open office environments, conference rooms, and quiet work zones.
AirFixture-supported projects have received numerous accolades for their energy performance, including LEED certification at the Silver, Gold, and Platinum levels, along with annual sustainability awards across multiple industries.
As companies prioritize ESG goals and long-term cost savings, UFAD-equipped buildings offer a smart, future-ready choice.
Learn how UFAD systems reduce energy use by up to 30% →
Raised flooring eliminates bulky overhead ductwork, giving architects the freedom to explore more design options. For modern tenants, this is an essential aspect of a new office space. Sleek, open ceilings appeal to design-forward tenants and UFAD products are custom-finished to match the designer’s aesthetic choices.
AirFixture products feature many finishing options with custom options for grille features and design. This allows project designers to work directly with UFAD product manufacturers to create HVAC infrastructure that supports the interior design.
AirFixture’s UFAD systems are designed with both simplicity and sophistication in mind—offering easy installation, accessible maintenance, and intuitive user controls. The raised floor design allows MEP engineering professionals to work directly with building owners and tenants to ensure smooth access for future servicing, minimizing disruption and downtime. Maintenance guides are included to keep systems running efficiently, helping extend the life of the office infrastructure.
At the same time, AirFixture delivers dynamic control solutions that integrate seamlessly into Building Automation Systems (BAS). With smart thermostatic units—ranging from traditional designs to wireless, touchscreen, or PIR sensor-enabled models—tenants can manage temperature and airflow by zone or even at individual workstations. This flexibility enhances personal comfort, reduces energy costs, and supports a more productive, long-term workspace.
UFAD under raised access floors gives tenants even more reasons to lease a commercial office space than location. From supplying consistent fresh air to occupants for enhanced comfort to energy efficiency and design flexibility, commercial buildings greatly raise their tenant interest by investing in UFAD.
If you are ready to position your property as a future-ready and tenant-focused building, contact us today. Our team of UFAD specialists will work with you to develop the perfect solution for your property.