It is safe to say that companies who have had to transition to remote working have been able to identify the pros and cons of this work arrangement by now. While many have proclaimed that this is the end of the office, that may not be the case as research has indicated employees prefer a hybrid work model. Still, changes to the physical workplace are inevitable as business leaders work to create a space that is safe for their workers.

“Going beyond building systems, health and wellness programs could be amenity-driven, focusing on how buildings use outside space, for example,” said John Duda, president of real estate management services at Colliers Canada. “Case in point: Colliers Canada’s Real Estate Management Services Team, in partnership with building owner Desjardins Life Assurance Company, put in a street-level urban garden at 95 St. Clair in Toronto, spanning the building’s entrance all the way onto the street.”

Along with the implementation of wellness amenities in the workplace, companies will also up their hygienic and sanitation practices. This means an increase in cleaning surfaces, installing touchless technology and offering more sanitation stations around the office.

According to Colliers Canada’s Work from Home Survey, 60% of respondents said focused work was better done at home. On the other hand, collaborative work has been proven to be more difficult when done virtually. Knowing this, we can expect companies to provide a larger variety of work options for employees, such as private booths for individual work and collaborative spaces that provide the ability to broadcast to those who are still working from home.