Amenities such as beer-on-tap and game rooms are being trumped by practical services like gyms, cafeterias, dry cleaners and more.
“Spaces that provide a great experience, prioritise technology, promote wellbeing and diversity and create a connection with the external community are rising up the agenda as companies recognise the role real estate plays in attracting and retaining the right talent,” said Lee Daniels, Head of Workplace, JLL UK. “Companies are doing this because it’s what their people want rather than following trends.”
JLL has found a direct correlation between workplace design and a productive staff. But now, many offices are bumping up rent prices in order to make room for more recreation and entertainment options.
Despite this, some amenities that work at one location may not necessarily work at another. Daniels said that some people say services such as gyms are underutilized because employees prefer to use facilities near home.
Therefore, it is important to understand what employees want first, then using the space accordingly.
According to JLL’s Premium Office Rent Tracker (PORT) report, banking and financial services firms are driving demand for top-of-the-range office spaces, occupying more than half of the world’s priciest office locations.
“The most-forward thinking firms aren’t necessarily the major tech companies of Silicon Valley or trendy startups,” said Daniels.
More new premium buildings are expected to open this year as the focus on services grows, but the move towards high-quality, practical amenities could trickle down to lower grade spaces.
