PANDEMIC HAS REDEFINED TENANT EXPECTATIONS FOR OFFICE SPACE

Companies around the world are re-evaluating the way their employees work and how their businesses operate in a post-pandemic world.  In fact,  employers and employees want a different workplace than they wanted even just one year ago.  They want an environment that not only meets their basic needs, but also allows for greater flexibility and includes top-tier amenities.  

Many are considering new work models, such as a hybrid office or an office as a collaboration hub. According to a recent Forbes article, whichever way they choose to go, companies need to assure their employees — and visitors — that their building is a healthy place to be.  

“Health and wellness are among our highest priorities,” said Todd Greenwald, Compass Properties Vice President. “Even before the pandemic, we had extensive processes in place to ensure that our tenants have safe, clean, and healthy workspaces.  So, we were and are well-positioned to meet the all-time high expectations for a safer and healthier workplace, post-pandemic. Our occupancy rates – which are consistently higher than market averages –indicate that tenants appreciate our ‘above and beyond’ approach to exceeding their workplace expectations.”

Greenwald said Compass Properties recently installed state-of-the-art, needlepoint bi-polar ionization systems in many of its buildings to increase air ventilation efficiency and kill harmful airborne particles, including COVID-19.  “We also implemented new protocols to increase the frequency of cleaning in high-density and high touch areas, upgraded air filters and increased outside air intake to dilute the potency of indoor germs.

Another trend impacting commercial office space is the need and desire for flexibility. Employers want spaces that supports their growth and can easily be adjusted to meet their changing needs. They want features such as movable walls, custom buildouts and modular furniture.  They also covet spaces that can be used for multiple functions (e.g., small meeting rooms that can double as hoteling offices or coworking space, break rooms that can serve as training classrooms, etc.)

“Flexible office space is important to our tenants,” Greenwald said.  “Many view it as a ‘must have’ to attract and recruit talent, especially younger employees.  A versatile, flexible office space can also contribute to enhanced morale and productivity for the entire workforce.” 

Employers and employees also want top-tier amenities, but not just the cool perks like lavish cafeterias, beer on tap, or ping pong table in the breakroom.  When surveyed, employees consistently rank productivity-enhancing amenities high on their lists, including:

• Consistent, high-availability internet access
• Touchless building entry
• Conference room management
• Food/package delivery
• Easy access to emergency and property management contact information

In short, employees and employers want amenities that help minimize work disruptions and support productivity.  

“Office space is no longer just about price and location; tenants want a workplace that is dynamic and adaptable,” Greenwald said. “They want healthy, flexible space with the right amenities to help their employees be more productive. Our role is to meet or exceed those expectations with flexible solutions, meaningful amenities, and a continued commitment to safe, healthy, and efficient buildings.”