Companies Rethink Their Workspace Strategy

Bill Seretta, president of nonprofit Sustainability Lab and owner of food business incubator Fork Food Lab, had big expansion plans for his company prior to the pandemic. Now, they’re essentially starting over.

In order to meet guidelines like physical distancing, Seretta is now looking at a 15,000 to 20,000 square foot facility to buy or build. The space could then be utilized to accommodate Fork Food Lab members who are undergoing big transitions during these uncertain times.

The need for more flexible office space has been the focus of many real estate discussions as companies look to keep their workspaces safe and healthy for employees.

“We’re starting to see some companies look at reconfiguring or redesigning their offices in a way that provides more space and flexibility for their employees,” said Drew Sigfridson, Boulos Co., managing director and broker who is helping Seretta in his search for a new workspace. “If they had certain requirements that they thought they needed six months ago, many of those clients are adjusting those requirements now.” 

For some companies, those changes include looking into offices outside of metropolitan areas and in the suburbs to allow employees to work closer to home. This also allows for more spacious facilities that meet the new necessary needs of the workplace.

Those who are looking into new office space will want flexibility, without the popular open-office layout that has taken over workspaces over the past few years. Now, private offices and barriers between desks will be readily embraced once more.