Unique Features of Tomorrow’s Workplace

In addition to the below predictions, workplaces are putting more focus on waste and water management and energy conservation. About 20 percent of all the energy we use in the U.S. comes from commercial properties. Water conservation and proper sourcing can have a huge impact on both costs and health.The proper management of waste also presents a huge opportunity for conservation. Smart business owners and developers will look at every aspect of their structures and operations.

I wouldn't be surprised to see easier access to healthcare in offices, micro-clinics, and virtual medicine.” - Sims

A mandatory feature for the office of the future is communication. Offices will need to communicate better, or at all, about the features within the built environment of the workplace and how they contribute to health and wellness or benefit the environment.” - Taranto

Offices of the future should be mandated to utilize LED lighting because of the negative environmental impact of traditional lighting methods. Traditional lighting has a much shorter lifespan than LED lighting, is much less efficient, and when thrown away has harsh chemicals like mercury that can dramatically impact the environment.” - Hawksworth

We predict that many companies will become aware of biophilic design and the importance of featuring natural settings within the built environment to improve occupant wellbeing, providing a sound and productive atmosphere for employees to perform at their optimal level. Beyond design, the workplace of the future will be safe, flexible, inclusive, and take responsibility for the mental health and safety of its employees.” - Conway

Overall cleaning, social distancing, and awareness of health aspects will definitely be a priority in designing spaces. People will still want to work in offices but with maintaining distance due to which more real estate might be needed or companies may need to expand offices in other areas of cities besides downtown. Employers will also need to consider policy changes with respect to flexibility and offer better benefits that allow for working parents, care-takers, etc. to still excel in their jobs but not have to be in the office at traditional 9 to 5 hours.” - Rami Vagal, Senior Manager of Sustainability, Mohawk Industries

They will include high levels of virtual workspace interconnectivity to allow both work from home and much-improved video conferencing to reduce travel. Improved airflow, spaciousness, and outdoor access, with options to avoid communal dining. Advanced energy management systems will capture and control local energy flows.” - Roger Duncan, Author, former Research Fellow, Energy Institute, University of Texas at Austin, and former General Manager of Austin Energy

After this extended period of working remotely for many workers, companies will make sure offices support different ways of working, a varied furniture pallet, and features of home-like access to natural light and ventilation. While it will also take some time to make people "comfortable" working in a large office, making modifications that can support increased comfort will also be key.” - Smieja