The Covid-19 pandemic prompted sharp increases in office space vacancies but, more importantly, brought upon lifestyle changes that would shift how and where people work–ultimately influencing how modern office spaces should look. Employees are now reluctant to return to the office when convenient video calling allows them to work from the comfort of their own homes. Many companies face this issue of how they can encourage workers to return to the office.
A new hybrid model of working is being adopted by companies accommodating only 2-3 days of in-office work days. This flexible model accommodating remote workers is transforming how real estate is used. Naturally, it’s expected that hybrid work trends will lead to companies downsizing their real estate. Many major companies, including Meta, Lockheed Martin, and JPMorgan Chase–New York City’s largest office tenant–have plans to diminish their commercial office footprint (while JPMorgan Chase is currently building a new trophy tour office building in New York, the company is still hedging their bets by downsizing in our overall global footprint). Surprisingly, tech companies such as Google, Amazon, Facebook, and Apple are securing spaces in New York City that would allow them to expand the number of people able to work in the office– even though they, too, have implemented hybrid work weeks. These companies are daringly wagering on the revival of Manhattan and the recovery of people working in offices, snagging up some backup real estate in casework styles change. The priority of the office is now shifted to the workers themselves, where changes are being made to enhance worker experience and efficiency. The office is becoming a place not just for working but a vital hub for collaboration. Before the pandemic, office space was 83% allocated to individual work and 17% reserved for collaborative work. However, coworking and collaboration have now taken over the spotlight post-pandemic: 70%+ of office space is now collaborative. Collaborative spaces are engaging hybrid workers and promoting the connectivity everyone has become deprived of since the pandemic. Innovation and brainstorming can be fostered in these environments, which improve company culture and curate a better employee experience. Right now, collaboration is the most vital function an office can serve.
To lure workers back into the office, companies are experimenting with various ways to transform the once- inspiring, traditional office into a renewed, modern hub for productivity and collaboration. A myriad of amenities is being renovated in New York City offices. 730 Third Avenue is a 27-story office tower whose $120 million renovation allows the space to offer a 6,000 square-foot sky lounge with in-house catering. The building features an 8,000- square-foot fitness center staffed with workers and equipped with Peloton bikes, workout studio space, locker rooms, and showers. A golf simulator lounge was recently added in Q1 of 2022, and the building even hosts two beehives on the 7th-floor terrace maintained by local beekeepers. Succeeding each season will be honey harvested for the enjoyment of building tenants. Foodies are being prioritized at One Vanderbilt, whose building brand is a culinary destination. World-class dining is offered in this office tower by French Michelin star chef Danial Boulud.
10 Grand Central reimagined office spaces through an aesthetic approach. This office tower has designed itself to be reminiscent of five-star hotels and private clubs as it introduces an arrangement of wood finishings, velvet, brass, and cushioned seats aimed to reflect New York’sArt Deco buildings of the early 20th century. This elegant space is far from rows of desks and cubbies, rather it is a luxurious host for a modern workplace. Though not every office building could be designed as grand or beautiful, overall, a common trend in office buildings is adding an aspect of nature into workspaces. With an emphasis on natural light, outdoor lounges, and natural wood tones, the goal is to create a serene and comforting environment for workers. The comeback of organic wood tone palettes can create a cozy feeling that opposes uptight office work environments.
As the focus has shifted towards creating positive employee experiences, hospitality is being incorporated into these office spaces, designated to create a destination rather than an obligation for workers. By infusing elements of hospitality, offices redirect themselves to becoming a place where employees want to be and spend their time. This not only attracts talent but also keeps talent. Office owners are working towards altering the ambiance of these workplaces to encourage a casual, comforting environment, replacing the previously stiff and rigid. This not only motivates employees to be more collaborative and happy, but further connects the company to its employees. It also communicates a statement of value between employers and employees.
Office needs are changing, and we are still in the exploration stage of testing different methods. But one definite feature that every office building will share is the integration of new technologies. Functional workspaces that encourage collaboration are the future of office buildings. Especially with hybrid work models, it’s a necessity to create spaces that allow for the merging of virtual and in-person participants. Cisco’s Penn 1 is an intelligent office building that aims to foster collaboration and provide the tools required for business- specific technology.
More than just a conference room housing a camera and TV screen, Penn 1 features voice control technology, ethernet, Webex collaboration software, Meraki cameras, dynamic digital signage, shade and light sensors, interactive boards, and temperature control which allows the user to make any space customized to be their own.
Reserving the use of office space to work alone is no longer enough. Companies are pioneering new ways to attract, engage, and maintain talent in the physical office through elements that truly differentiate them. From desirable amenities that add fun and entertainment to the workspace, delicious food, and aesthetic environments that inspire productivity, or even advanced technologies that add purpose and collaboration to the office, the modern workspace is being reimagined. The future of office spaces seems dynamic, offering different trending benefits as we adapt to the new lifestyle changes prompted by the pandemic.
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