When EY wanted to update their Singapore office to a distinctive, impactful and welcoming EY@Work workspace, the goal was clear: to adapt the workplace to new needs of a new generation of employees who prioritised inclusivity, wellbeing, and work-life integration.

With these requirements in mind, JLL’s Workplace Strategy, Design Solutions, Project Management teams came together to advise the global professional services company on how to future-proof their office.

As a ‘Big Four’ global professional services organisation, EY recognises the importance of fostering a culture of productivity and wellbeing by creating the right office environment to attract and retain top talent.

The challenge lay in designing a space that balances corporate goals with employee needs.

JLL’s Design Solutions team translated the workplace strategy recommendations and integrated EY@Work space typologies into a human-centred office that fosters collaboration and employee wellbeing.

The new design included:

• A human-centred destination and stacking plan that creates an engaging experience for EY people, clients and visitors

• Features that enrich physical, emotional and social wellbeing

• Sufficient flexible workspaces, phone booths and meeting rooms to support both collaborative and individual work

• A creative workshop, collaboration and presentation space called EY wavespaceTM where teams can work with clients to co-create solutions

• Acoustic paint, ceiling boards, and fabric panels at workstations to reduce noise in open plan areas

• Well-placed water points and social hubs on each floor that offer relaxation and the best views of the city skyline

• Consistent wayfinding and access points from lift lobbies to aid familiarity and ease of transition across floors

Sustainability is a cornerstone of the EY@Work design principles. The office’s sustainable design not only aligned with the EY commitment to the environment but also sets a benchmark for future office projects.

• All materials used, including carpets, lighting, furniture, and finishes, were procured to Green Mark standards

• Live plants were placed throughout the office to enhance air quality and create a calming environment

• Use of recycled wood panelling throughout the office

• Maximised use of natural light to reduce energy needed for lighting and to provide staff with breathtaking skyline views

• Smart bins for waste separation and food waste conversion into biodegradable material

• Reusable cutlery at pantry hubs to reduce the need for disposable cutlery

An inclusive office design is about accommodating choice, flexibility and practicality – i.e., having a work environment that benefits everyone. The diverse talents in EY have unique requirements for their office experience. The new Singapore office now holds the EY gold standard for inclusive office design across Asia Pacific. The design ensures that the workspace is accessible and supportive of all employees, reflecting the EY organisation’s dedication to diversity and equity.

• Braille signages for all meeting rooms and handrails

• Accessible and gender-neutral restrooms

• Height-adjustable desks

• A multi-faith prayer room and mother’s room

• Dedicated spaces for neurodivergent talent who need a sensory break

• Wellness rooms to support diverse employee needs