As the workday winds down, it’s common to see bustling downtown offices transform into veritable ghost towns as commuters exit en masse to catch their trains or head to smaller, more vibrant neighborhoods. But that dynamic is beginning to change.

Office buildings previously occupied exclusively by its tenants are beginning to buzz with activity as a community hub and holistic lifestyle spaces—people visiting healthcare clinics, attending fitness classes and enjoying rooftop gardens. This evolution underscores a new trend paving the way for the future of commercial real estate: the integration of live-work-play lifestyles within office buildings. With that evolution comes a whole new set of property management considerations that will help achieve and sustain a healthy net operating income.

While the benefits are significant, this type of transformation comes with its own set of property management challenges. Determining the right mix of amenities requires reconfiguring spaces to accommodate these new functions, along with a versatile property management team capable of handling the varied demands of a mixed-use space. Adopting a hospitality-focused approach can help manage these complexities and elevate the overall customer experience.

Security is another critical concern. With extended operating hours and increased public access, tailored security programs are essential to ensure the safety of all users. Additionally, operational costs related to mechanical systems, energy, IT infrastructure and communications will need reassessment, and some expenses may be offset by renegotiating ancillary services.

Owners must also navigate external factors, such as liquor license availability, varying real estate tax rates and existing ownership agreements. By understanding these challenges and planning strategically, building owners can successfully reinvent their properties.