Office trends that companies should watch

Here are this year's office trends according to Technopolis.

AI is a hot topic in many industries, with a large potential to unlock new opportunities. Already today and moving forward, we believe AI will fundamentally transform the way we work and how our workspaces are designed. This shift requires us to rethink our workspace requirements and employee needs. For example, by integrating AI into our office spaces we can enhance communication, collaboration, and the workplace culture among colleagues. Additionally, AI can improve office design by providing insights into the optimal placement of furniture and equipment, maximizing collaboration and productivity, and contributing to create sustainable work environments by identifying areas where energy is being wasted.

Now more than ever, as sustainability is becoming an integral part of all levels of an organization, companies are required to prioritize sustainability, just as much as things like digitalization and strategy development. Today's sustainability efforts go beyond reporting and brand building, as they are also crucial from a regulatory and legal perspective. With new laws and regulations constantly being introduced, companies must continue to adapt their ways of working. For example, a new EU directive was implemented on January 1, 2024, which results in stricter requirements for waste management. This will likely lead to an increased demand for clearer instructions regarding recycling in workplaces.

In addition, empowering employees to make sustainable choices is essential for creating a sustainable workplace. We have observed how employees are taking individual responsibility by adopting more sustainable ways of transportation, such as electric cars and bicycles. This has led to a growing need for companies to implement charging stations and bicycle rooms for their employees.

The economic situation in Sweden and globally affects all industries, and the real estate industry is no exception. Inflation has a major impact on how companies choose to structure their offices. Open activity-based offices where employees rotate between seats and desks, mixed with project areas and meeting rooms, is a trend we believe will continue to grow.

Gyms and fitness facilities adjacent to office spaces are becoming increasingly popular as there is a greater need to be able to combine exercise and work in a smooth way. In addition to this, we also see a greater demand for other types of services in and in connection with the workplace, such as dog daycare and healthcare facilities. Restaurants and cafes also remain to be sought-after services in the workplace.