How the modern workplace is transcending the office

Today’s workplace extends beyond the office walls.

Employees in cities have long taken advantage of nearby gyms, outdoor spaces, shops, and restaurants. But now these amenities are becoming a mandatory part of new real estate developments, most notably in mixed-use projects that incorporate a variety of spaces.

“There’s been a clear shift in recent years from a traditional office setup towards holistic, experience-driven environments that cater to both work and employee well-being,” says Shweta Choudhari, Director, Research and Strategy, Work Dynamics, Asia Pacific, JLL.

This has fueled the “street-to-seat” trend, which focuses on providing a seamless end-to-end experience from public spaces to workplaces. As Choudhari notes, this trend is influencing integration of experience across real estate developments.

A prime example is insurance provider FWD’s Bangkok office, located in a mixed-use development within the Central Business District. Employees enjoy immediate access to amenities like supermarkets and restaurants, alongside a connected workspace that features sweeping views and a versatile social hub fostering interaction and collaboration.

Designing and curating these integrated experiences has become a core focus for both developers and occupiers.

"It not only enhances employee experience but also attracts talent, revitalizes urban centers, and boosts workplace attendance,” says Choudhari.

Employees, especially the younger generations, are demanding higher-quality experiences blending human-centric design with spaces fostering community and connection. Over 80% of millennials and Gen Zs surveyed by JLL believe cities must offer new experiences to remain relevant.

This necessitates a shift in how developers and occupiers approach future design for mixed-use developments, with the “street-to-seat” experience as a key consideration.

People-centric design will be at the core, Choudhari says. “Thoughtfully combining people experience data and user journey mapping, while integrating spatial design, branding, and technology, will improve experiences at all touchpoints.”

For occupiers, even with limited control over surrounding amenities, focusing on enhancing the employee experience within their offices, such as in arrival spaces and meeting rooms, is crucial.

Global professional services firm MMC, for instance, incorporated design elements in their Kuala Lumpur office that reflect local cultural references, creating a unique sense of identity upon entry. Similarly, in Paris, the refurbishment of a historic post office by French coworking provider Startway-Multiburo maximized ceiling heights and natural lighting, enhancing spatial quality throughout the coworking and reception spaces.

Furthermore, spaces that facilitate social activities will also become central, given that socializing is the top reason employers and employees return to the office, according to JLL.

“Creating spaces that nurture community, collaboration, belonging, and connection can significantly boost employee satisfaction and productivity,” says Choudhari.

Mixed-use developments remain the gold standard for vibrant, self-sustaining ecosystems. For developers, offering the right mix of work, leisure, and lifestyle amenities will be key.

In Asia Pacific, for instance, staff restaurants and quiet rooms lead the list of most sought-after amenities, followed by convenience stores, gyms, ATMs, and medical services, JLL data shows.

As developers and occupiers invest in design and refurbishment, Choudhari predicts more trends will emerge, prioritizing convenience, wellbeing, and experience.

“Employees can expect more green spaces, wellness facilities, collaboration spaces, co-working hubs, and technology-enabled environments,” she says.