Beyond Relocation: a journey towards sustainability and positive change

JLL Belgium is embarking on a transformative journey by relocating its Belux headquarters to M10 building in Brussels, starting from December 2nd, 2024.

This move is not just a change of location but a bold statement of our commitment to sustainability and our determination to lead by example in the industry.

JLL Belux showcases how a relocation project is an opportunity for more than just physical moves. It serves as a catalyst for transforming companies towards sustainable growth by challenging existing norms and embracing a new status quo.

As Sebastien Giordano, Country Lead of JLL Belux explains: “With our move to Montoyer 10, we lead by example, reshaping how work environments drive success. This goes beyond relocation - it's our blueprint for the future and our vision in action: maximize value creation through sustainable innovation.”

Let's explore the key elements that make a headquarters relocation a true sustainable showcase.

Montoyer 10, once JLL's former home, has undergone a comprehensive redevelopment by Cofinimmo and emerged as a shining example of best-in-class ESG. Its central location promotes work life balance and sustainable mobility.

M10 embodies the key occupier trends we see today in the Belgium market : sustainability, flexibility, and well-being and all this in the vibrant EU district. Occupiers are facing various challenges : ESG targets , talent retention, brand visibility. M10 building meets all the key criteria.

The building boasts exceptional sustainability achievements with highest certification standards, including the following labels: BREEAM Outstanding, CO2-Neutral and PEB A+. This aligns perfectly with JLL Belgium's trajectory toward achieving carbon neutrality on scopes 1 and 2 by 2030.

As Sebastien Giordano points out, "Reducing our carbon footprint and delivering a sustainable project was the driving force behind every decision we made. The M10 building, with its remarkable wooden structure, achieved the highest certification standards in the industry. But we pushed the boundaries even further with our fit-out project, setting new benchmarks for sustainability in interior design.

The building's WELL Platinum certification underscores our deep commitment to our teams' wellbeing, seamlessly integrating environmental and operational excellence with human-centric design.

Our new HQ proves that sustainability, employee wellbeing, and business success can thrive together, positioning us as trailblazers in creating a more sustainable built environment."

As Bernard Keppenne, Head of Tenant Representation JLL Belgium explains : “It was essential to select a location minimizing our carbon footprint and maximizing connectivity. Located in the heart of the European district, in a core business district, M10 offers easy access to a full range of amenities, such as grocery stores, restaurants, and green spaces. This central location promotes a healthy work-life balance, enabling employees to conveniently access what they need for their personal and professional lives. Moreover proximity to public transportation hubs and cycling infrastructure further reduces the need for private commuting. “

JLL Belgium is aiming to achieve the prestigious WELL Platinum certification for the interior spaces of its new headquarters, demonstrating the company's commitment to employee health and well-being. This certification, awarded by the International WELL Building Institute (IWBI), recognizes spaces that prioritize human health and wellness through innovative design and operational strategies. By integrating features that support physical and mental health, such as optimal air quality, natural lighting, ergonomic workspaces, and areas for relaxation and social interaction, we create an environment that not only enhances employee productivity but also promotes overall well-being and job satisfaction.

Making flexibility the key to sustainable work practices

By implementing flexible work arrangements and remote work options, we significantly reduce commuting requirements. We conducted a thorough analysis of our employees' commuting patterns prior to the relocation project. Through a combination of workplace flexibility and promotion of carbon-neutral mobility solutions, we anticipate achieving substantial positive impacts on our overall carbon footprint.

But flexibility doesn't just reduce working habits; it also involves designing flexible spaces that serve multiple purposes to maximize their utilization by employees.

By prioritizing multi-functional spaces to maximize utilization and by connecting the groundfloor and upperfloor with an open staircase, we promote communication and create a dynamic environment that ease well being of the teams.

As Tétris designer Patrice Delleuze affirms, "Maximizing workplace utilization through well-designed spaces allows us to optimize space and create a comfortable and efficient working environment. For instance, we imagined Multi-functional common areas that can be used for informal meetings, networking events, or even as quiet relaxation zones."

Finally, by implementing smart space reduction strategies, flexible work arrangements, and embracing the principles of flex office design, organizations are simultaneously cutting costs, boosting employee satisfaction, and making substantial strides in reducing their carbon footprint.

Circular economy principles guided our approach to reuse and waste reduction. In the interior design, we have prioritized the use of recycled and upcycled materials and furniture.

And Vladimir Guinez, Senior project manager Tétris ads “Maximizing workplace utilization through well-designed spaces allows us to optimize space and create a comfortable and efficient working environment. For instance, we imagined Multi-functional common areas that can be used for informal meetings, networking events, or even as quiet relaxation zones."

JLL Belgium's relocation to M10 is not just a physical move; it is a statement of our commitment to sustainability, innovation, and driving positive change in the industry. Our new headquarters exemplifies the practical application of sustainability principles and sets the stage for a more sustainable future.

With our focus on minimizing our carbon footprint, embracing sustainable mobility, and championing reuse and waste reduction, we invite other organizations to join us on this journey towards creating a better, more sustainable built environment.