MixInspired: Workplace 2030

What does workplace 2030 look like? Will technology be king? Will there still be a focus on current trends such as wellbeing, sustainability, flexible working (to name but a few!)

Considering the move away from traditional office space, the panel at this special edition of MixInspired discussed the factors that companies are considering when designing their spaces. Unconventional and quirky spaces are on the rise, and have been for the last 10 years, as staff retention, wellbeing and a cross-generational workforce become increasingly important.

‘There’s a huge war for talent,’ explained Ciara Keeling, CEO of Bruntwood Works. ‘In order for companies to both attract and retain the best talent, they have to be thoughtful around creating spaces that really work for the for the end user and the customer.’

The panel was unanimous that sustainability issues will continue to play a key role in the workplace over the next decade, as cities set carbon neutrality targets – such as Manchester’s target of 2038. So where do certification schemes come into this – if at all? ‘We’re not actually going to promote BREEAM ratings,’ said Greg Ball, Senior Development Manager at U+I. ‘We’re looking at various measures to make our buildings as sustainable as possible, but we’re not just going to go out and get a brand certification that might become obsolete in the future.’

Tying this all together is technology. Monitoring individuals’ requirements and wellbeing as well as automating processes will not only create more flexible spaces but also create a more sustainable environment.