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.

To create a workplace that truly works, JLL’s Consulting team created a data-driven workplace strategy by understanding what EY leadership and people are looking for in their ideal office space.

From business objectives to staff pain points, the team gathered extensive feedback on the old office space and what they wished to have in their new workplace through co-creation workshops, one-on-one interviews, and online surveys.

Additionally, we conducted an observational study to understand how EY functions as an integrated organisation, considering the interactions between front-end consultants and business support functions.

The data and feedback gathered were analysed to identify the work styles and preferences EY people. The team used these insights, along with their close understanding of prevailing office design trends, to develop the right workplace strategy for EY.

The final workplace strategy recommended the need for an innovative office design that could:

• Improve efficiency and productivity through an enhanced workplace experience.

• Support new ways of working, especially in today’s era of hybrid and remote work.

• Support the company’s efforts towards a more sustainable and inclusive future of work.

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