To address these challenges, forward-thinking organizations are adopting a comprehensive approach to workplace strategy. This involves analyzing their real estate portfolios to determine the optimal number and location of offices to meet business needs, developing flexible workplace strategies that accommodate hybrid work models, and creating spaces that foster community, collaboration, and connection.

One key aspect of this approach is the implementation of people-first design principles. By combining experience data and user journey mapping with spatial design, branding, and technology integration, companies can improve experiences at all touchpoints within the workplace.

Examples may include creating unique arrival spaces that reflect local cultural references, maximizing natural lighting and spatial quality, and incorporating other elements that enhance employee wellbeing: from air quality and temperature control to ergonomic furniture selection and space utilization analytics.

Technology plays a crucial role in creating exceptional workplace experiences. Despite initial costs, strategic technology investments can lead to significant long-term savings and improved employee satisfaction. Over 75% of corporate real estate leaders are investing in better office technology, including high-definition screens, improved audio systems, and advanced cameras that facilitate seamless collaboration between in-office and remote workers.

Much of this new technology that optimizes the workplace experience is under the purview of a company’s facilities team. IoT sensors for space utilization tracking, AI-powered predictive maintenance systems, and mobile apps that allow employees to book desks, rooms, or even control the comfort of their immediate environment. Bonus: These technologies not only enhance the employee experience but also provide valuable data for continuous improvement of workplace design and management.

Flexibility and adaptability are also key considerations in modern workplace design. Purpose-driven fit-outs that increase flexibility in both layout and furniture solutions allow for daily workspace changes, maximizing the use of potentially reduced office footprints. This approach enhances the employee experience and maximizes return on investment for organizations.

Sustainability is another critical factor in creating attractive workplaces that draw top talent. Organizations have more robust sustainability requirements than ever, and thoughtful design strategies for building refurbishment, adaptive reuse, or retrofit can drive decarbonization while also creating positive social impact and enhancing overall value.

Incorporating circular economy principles, such as upcycling and repurposing furniture, can provide opportunities for unique design solutions and strong visual identity while also appealing to environmentally conscious employees.

The social aspect of the workplace has also become increasingly important, especially as companies encourage employees to return to the office. Collaboration, social interaction, culture, and connectivity are cited as the top reasons for working in the office, for both employees and employers. Therefore, workplace design must look beyond planned collaboration spaces and consider how people interact, form social bonds, and share knowledge throughout offices and other workspaces.