Life science companies are moving into Canary Wharf, but the transition from 1990s office buildings to lab spaces presents challenges, such as floor vibrations. The area is being reimagined as a multi-use space, raising the question: Is adaptive reuse truly sustainable, or is it primarily an economic decision?
Deloitte's 1 New Street Square achieved the highest-ever BREEAM rating at 94%. The design was based on five key principles: Unique, Simple, Connected, Relevant, and Inspiring. However, an initial flaw in the layout placed all meeting suites on the top floors, causing delays and inefficiencies.
To address this, Deloitte introduced informal meeting spaces throughout the building for quick interactions, reserving top floors for formal client meetings. A bar and fine dining area were also added to the top floors, eliminating the need to take clients offsite while ensuring confidentiality.
The workplace well-being initiative, initially underestimated, has been a success. The office now includes a music-filled coffee shop to create a dynamic atmosphere and various work settings to accommodate different work styles. Space efficiency was also improved by reducing storage by 60% and minimizing senior offices. Centralized teapoints and stairs encourage spontaneous interactions between employees.
Inclusivity and neurodiversity considerations were integrated through a desk booking system that allows employees to plan their workday, reducing anxiety about seating arrangements.
Workplace strategy should focus on how employees feel in their environment. Cultural norms shape expectations and interactions, making it essential to design spaces that enhance workplace experiences. Role-playing exercises can help employees understand different perspectives, fostering better collaboration.
Bi-weekly workshops ensure iterative design processes, allowing employees to feel engaged and understand workplace decisions. Since workplace culture remains relatively stable, even as people and spaces change, design should align with long-term cultural values.
Materials and colors communicate company values. For example, tech companies often feel futuristic and masculine, which can be intimidating. By redesigning showrooms to be more interactive and simple, businesses can make them more approachable to a wider audience.
An innovative approach to workplace design can redefine industry standards. Ford, for instance, removed salespeople from its showroom and replaced them with hospitality-trained staff, creating a more welcoming experience. Workspaces can learn from retail and hospitality to enhance client experiences, as seen in Deloitte’s hotel-like café entrance.
Constant research is essential, as new technologies like AI can rapidly change workplace dynamics. Incorporating QR codes in meetings allows for anonymous feedback, encouraging honest input. Understanding employee pain points is crucial—work can be monotonous, and mental health challenges are prevalent. Strategies should address these issues, such as implementing shorter meetings and more efficient workflows.
Companies are shifting towards multiple amenity-rich buildings rather than isolated 'ivory towers.' The preferred model is a core HQ with flexible satellite offices. There is also a trend toward integrating universities and workplaces for co-mentoring opportunities. Some companies are increasing weekend community use of office spaces to generate revenue, though this also raises energy consumption concerns. Multi-functional spaces help reduce overall space needs.
Productivity cannot be measured solely by revenue. Employee engagement is a more accurate indicator of workplace effectiveness. High revenue targets can lead to burnout, pushing employees to leave despite strong retention metrics. A broader definition of productivity should include work-life balance and employee well-being.
Culture is not just a tagline on a company website; it is reflected in how employees feel about their workplace, even outside of working hours. Workplace design should support natural employee interactions rather than forcing behavioral changes. Too many directional signs in a building indicate poor layout planning.
Corporate real estate trends show that workplace strategy should inform real estate decisions rather than be used to justify them after the fact. Companies need to assess their actual space requirements before making real estate investments, ensuring efficiency and long-term value.
Adaptive reuse must balance sustainability with economic viability.
Workplace design should prioritize employee experience, well-being, and collaboration.
Workplace strategy should drive real estate decisions, not justify them after the fact.
Flexible, multi-use spaces support talent attraction, retention, and innovation.
Productivity should be measured holistically, considering work-life balance.
Engaging employees in the design process leads to better workplace outcomes.
Culture is the most stable factor in a business—design should align with it.
Inclusivity and neurodiversity considerations enhance workplace effectiveness.
This report highlights the evolving nature of workplace strategy and its critical role in shaping future workplaces that are sustainable, inclusive, and adaptable.