After several years of promoting working from home as the ideal solution for flexible work, it is now clear that returning to the office offers decisive benefits. Many companies and international corporations have recognised the shift and brought employees back. Physical presence plays a key role in career success, creativity and team spirit. Employees also appreciate returning, having realised that working from home does not advance their careers and that they miss social contact with colleagues.

To ensure that returning to the office is not a “step backwards”, modern workplaces must offer more than desks and meeting rooms. They need to create an attractive environment that motivates and inspires. Companies expecting staff to come in regularly must design offices that offer clear benefits over working from home.

Flexible work areas, quiet spaces for focused work, generous break areas and modern technology can all make an office attractive. Many employers also provide social and relaxing amenities such as coffee bars, lounges and fitness facilities to support employee wellbeing.

ESG standards for buildings are also becoming more important. Existing buildings in particular need energy-efficient refurbishment and sustainable improvements to prepare them for a new decade. The investment pays off: many existing properties enjoy excellent locations and can become top office addresses again after suitable conversion and renovation.

Brockhoff specialises in advising owners of existing properties on repositioning and supporting the subsequent marketing. In almost every case, we can secure full occupancy for office properties before all refurbishment work is complete. Modern offices in good locations will remain popular business addresses.