How Smart Technology Is Revolutionizing Office Design In the age of digital transformation, the modern workplace is undergoing a significant evolution. Smart technology is no longer just a luxury; it’s becoming a necessity for businesses aiming to enhance productivity, efficiency, and employee satisfaction. From IoT-enabled devices to AI-powered tools, smart office solutions are revolutionizing how spaces are designed and utilized. Here’s a deep dive into how smart technology is shaping the future of office design. 1. What Is a Smart Office? A smart office leverages cutting-edge technology to optimize functionality, improve employee experience, and adapt to changing needs. This includes: IoT Devices: Internet-connected gadgets that enable seamless communication and automation. AI Systems: Tools that analyze data to streamline operations and decision-making. Sustainability Tech: Innovations that reduce energy consumption and promote eco-friendliness. 2. Enhancing Employee Experience Smart technology creates environments that are not only functional but also enjoyable to work in. Key benefits include: Personalized Workspaces Smart Desks: Adjustable desks that remember individual preferences for height and posture. Lighting Control: Systems that adapt to user preferences and circadian rhythms. Collaboration Tools Smart Whiteboards: Interactive boards that save and share notes in real-time. Virtual Meeting Rooms: Spaces equipped with advanced video conferencing technology to connect global teams. Health and Wellness Air Quality Monitors: Devices that ensure optimal air quality for employee health. Wellness Apps: Integrated apps that encourage movement and provide ergonomic tips. 3. Optimizing Space Utilization Efficient use of office space is crucial, especially in urban areas where real estate is at a premium. Smart technology enables: Occupancy Sensors Monitor real-time space usage to identify underutilized areas. Automatically adjust lighting and HVAC systems based on room occupancy. Flexible Workstations Hot-desking solutions that allocate desks based on employee schedules. Booking systems for meeting rooms to avoid scheduling conflicts. 4. Boosting Sustainability Sustainability is a priority for businesses aiming to reduce their environmental footprint. Smart technology supports green initiatives by: Energy Management Smart Thermostats: Automatically regulate temperature based on occupancy and weather. LED Lighting: Integrated systems that adjust brightness and reduce energy consumption. Waste Reduction IoT-enabled recycling bins that sort and compact waste. Digital tools that minimize paper use in meetings and presentations. 5. Improving Security A secure office is essential for protecting sensitive data and assets. Smart technology enhances security with: Access Control Biometric scanners for secure entry. Smartphone apps that replace traditional keycards. Surveillance Systems AI-powered cameras that detect unusual activity. Facial recognition for seamless and secure access. 6. Facilitating Hybrid Work Models The rise of remote and hybrid work has reshaped office needs. Smart technology bridges the gap between physical and virtual workspaces: Virtual Office Platforms Digital twins that replicate physical office spaces for remote collaboration. Apps that allow employees to interact with in-office systems from anywhere. Seamless Connectivity High-speed internet and smart hubs to ensure uninterrupted communication. Tools that synchronize tasks and schedules across remote teams. 7. Smart Technology in Office Design Trends As smart offices become more prevalent, certain trends are emerging: Biophilic Design with Technology Integration of natural elements like greenery with smart irrigation systems. Smart lighting that mimics natural daylight. AI-Driven Customization AI tools that analyze employee behavior to suggest layout improvements. Personalized work environments that adapt in real-time. Minimalist Aesthetics Concealed tech components for clean and clutter-free designs. Multi-functional furniture embedded with charging ports and smart controls. 8. Challenges and Considerations While smart technology offers numerous benefits, there are challenges to address: Cost Initial investment in smart systems can be high, though long-term savings often offset this. Data Security Ensuring robust cybersecurity measures for IoT devices and cloud-based systems. Adoption Training employees to use new technologies effectively. 9. The Future of Smart Office Design The integration of emerging technologies like AI, blockchain, and 5G will continue to redefine office spaces. Future possibilities include: Self-Healing Systems: IoT devices that automatically repair minor malfunctions. Augmented Reality (AR): Tools for virtual space planning and real-time design changes. Zero-Energy Buildings: Offices that generate as much energy as they consume. Why Smart Offices Are Worth the Investment Smart technology isn’t just a trend; it’s a strategic investment that: Increases Productivity: By creating efficient and comfortable work environments. Reduces Costs: Through energy savings and optimized space utilization. Attracts Talent: Modern, tech-forward offices appeal to top-tier employees. Partner with Cape Interiors for Your Smart Office Design At Cape Interiors, we specialize in integrating smart technology into commercial office fit-outs. Our experienced team works with you to design spaces that combine cutting-edge tech with stunning aesthetics. Ready to transform your office? Contact us today to learn how we can help you create a smart, sustainable, and inspiring workspace. Would you like this expanded with examples or more visuals for better engagement?

Planning a commercial office fit-out can feel overwhelming, but with the right approach, it can be a rewarding process that transforms your workspace into a functional, stylish, and inspiring environment. Whether you’re moving into a new office or upgrading your current space, this step-by-step guide will walk you through everything you need to know to ensure a successful office fit-out. Step 1: Define Your Objectives Start by clarifying your goals for the fit-out. Consider: Purpose: Are you aiming to enhance productivity, accommodate growth, or align with your company’s branding? Timeline: When does the project need to be completed? Budget: How much can you allocate for the fit-out? Having clear objectives ensures your project stays on track and meets your needs. Step 2: Assess Your Current and Future Needs Evaluate your existing office space and consider how your business might evolve in the next 3-5 years. Key factors to assess include: Employee Count: How many people will the office need to accommodate? Work Styles: Do your employees prefer open spaces, private offices, or a hybrid setup? Technology Requirements: What infrastructure is needed for seamless operations? Step 3: Assemble Your Fit-Out Team Choose professionals who will bring your vision to life. Your team might include: Interior Designers: Experts who can create a functional and aesthetically pleasing layout. Project Managers: Professionals to oversee timelines, budgets, and execution. Contractors: Skilled tradespeople to handle construction and installation. Specialists: IT consultants, sustainability experts, or furniture suppliers as needed. Hiring an experienced interior design agency can simplify the process and ensure cohesive results. Step 4: Set Your Budget Establishing a realistic budget is critical. Include costs for: Design and Consultation: Fees for your interior design agency. Construction and Materials: Building, painting, flooring, and lighting. Furniture and Fixtures: Desks, chairs, storage, and decorative elements. Technology: Cabling, servers, and other IT infrastructure. Permits and Compliance: Ensuring your space meets legal and safety standards. Allow a contingency fund for unexpected expenses, typically 10-15% of your total budget. Step 5: Create a Design Concept Work with your design team to develop a concept that reflects your company’s culture and brand identity. Consider: Color Palette: Choose colors that evoke the desired mood and align with your branding. Furniture: Opt for ergonomic and adaptable pieces. Layout: Incorporate spaces for collaboration, quiet work, and relaxation. Sustainability: Use eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient lighting. Request 3D renderings or visualizations to preview the final look. Step 6: Plan for Technology and Infrastructure Seamless integration of technology is essential in modern offices. Coordinate with IT professionals to ensure: Connectivity: High-speed internet and strong Wi-Fi coverage. Power Supply: Adequate outlets and charging stations. Smart Solutions: Automated lighting, climate control, and security systems. Step 7: Obtain Necessary Approvals Before construction begins, secure all required permissions. These might include: Landlord Approval: If you’re leasing the space. Building Permits: To ensure compliance with local regulations. Health and Safety Certifications: For fire safety, accessibility, and other standards. Step 8: Execute the Fit-Out With plans in place, it’s time to start construction. Ensure your project manager: Coordinates the Schedule: So all tasks are completed in sequence. Monitors Quality: Regularly inspects work to maintain high standards. Manages Communication: Keeps all stakeholders informed about progress and potential delays. Step 9: Add Finishing Touches Once construction is complete, focus on the details that bring the space to life: Branding Elements: Logo signage, wall art, or custom finishes. Greenery: Plants for a fresh and inviting atmosphere. Accessories: Rugs, lighting, and decor to add personality. Step 10: Conduct a Post-Project Review After the fit-out, take time to review the results: Employee Feedback: Gather input on the new space. Performance Metrics: Measure improvements in productivity, satisfaction, or functionality. Lessons Learned: Note what worked well and what could be improved for future projects. Tips for a Smooth Fit-Out Process Communicate Clearly: Maintain open communication with your team and stakeholders. Stay Flexible: Be prepared to adapt if challenges arise. Prioritize Functionality: Ensure the design serves your team’s needs, not just aesthetics. Think Long-Term: Invest in durable materials and timeless designs to avoid frequent updates. Why Choose Cape Interiors for Your Office Fit-Out? At Cape Interiors, we specialize in delivering tailored commercial office fit-outs that reflect your company’s values and meet your operational needs. With over 20 years of experience and a vast network of skilled professionals, we offer: Custom Solutions: Designs that align with your vision and budget. Expert Team: Access to top interior designers and contractors. Seamless Process: From concept to completion, we handle it all. Transform your office into a space that inspires success. Contact us today to start planning your fit-out!

The way we work is evolving, and so is the design of our workspaces. As businesses adapt to hybrid models, employee well-being, and sustainability, office design is stepping up to meet these demands. The year 2025 promises exciting trends that focus on flexibility, functionality, and fostering a sense of community. Let’s dive into the key office design trends for 2025 and how they’re shaping the future of work. 1. Hybrid Workspaces: Flexibility First The rise of hybrid work has changed the way offices are designed. In 2025, workspaces will cater to both in-office and remote workers, blending physical and digital environments seamlessly. Key Features: Modular Furniture: Flexible furniture that can be reconfigured for collaborative work, meetings, or quiet focus areas. Hot Desking Solutions: Technology-integrated desks that allow employees to reserve workspaces in advance. Zoom Rooms: Small, tech-equipped spaces designed for video conferencing, ensuring seamless communication for remote and in-office teams. Why It Matters: Hybrid workspaces provide the adaptability companies need to accommodate changing team dynamics while maintaining productivity and employee satisfaction. Space Planning. 2. Biophilic Design: Bringing Nature Indoors Biophilic design continues to dominate office interiors, emphasizing the connection between people and nature. This trend focuses on creating healthier, more inspiring work environments. Key Features: Living Walls: Vertical gardens that enhance air quality and aesthetics. Natural Materials: The use of wood, stone, and other organic elements in furniture and decor. Abundant Natural Light: Large windows, skylights, and light-diffusing materials to brighten spaces. Why It Matters: Biophilic design improves employee well-being, reduces stress, and boosts creativity, making it a favorite among modern workplaces. 3. Sustainability and Green Design Sustainability is no longer optional; it’s a necessity. Offices in 2025 will focus on reducing their environmental footprint while creating energy-efficient, eco-friendly spaces. Key Features: Energy-Efficient Lighting: LED lights and motion sensors to reduce energy consumption. Recycled Materials: Furniture and fixtures made from upcycled or recycled materials. Green Certifications: Offices designed to meet LEED, WELL, or similar sustainability standards. Why It Matters: Sustainable offices not only align with corporate social responsibility goals but also attract eco-conscious employees and clients. 4. Wellness-Centric Workspaces Employee wellness is a top priority, and office designs are reflecting this shift. In 2025, workplaces will integrate features that promote physical and mental health. Key Features: Quiet Zones: Dedicated spaces for relaxation, meditation, or focused work. Ergonomic Furniture: Adjustable desks and chairs that support healthy posture and movement. Fitness and Wellness Areas: On-site gyms, yoga studios, or wellness rooms. Why It Matters: Wellness-focused designs lead to happier, healthier employees who are more engaged and productive. 5. Tech-Integrated Offices As technology advances, offices are becoming smarter and more connected. The trend for 2025 emphasizes seamless tech integration to enhance efficiency and collaboration. Key Features: Smart Desks: Desks with built-in wireless charging, touchscreens, and connectivity features. IoT Devices: Internet of Things (IoT) sensors to monitor and optimize space usage, lighting, and air quality. AR/VR Spaces: Augmented and virtual reality rooms for immersive training and brainstorming sessions. Why It Matters: Tech-integrated offices improve workflow, support hybrid teams, and future-proof workspaces. 6. Resimercial Design: The Comfort of Home at Work Resimercial design blends residential comfort with commercial functionality, creating inviting, cozy work environments. Key Features: Soft Furnishings: Couches, rugs, and cushions to create lounge-like areas. Warm Color Palettes: Neutral tones and warm lighting to foster a relaxed atmosphere. Home-Style Kitchens: Communal dining areas with a homely vibe. Why It Matters: Resimercial design helps employees feel at ease, improving morale and reducing stress. 7. Inclusive Design: Spaces for Everyone Diversity and inclusion are shaping office design, with spaces that cater to a wide range of needs and preferences. Key Features: Accessible Workstations: Height-adjustable desks and ergonomic chairs. Gender-Neutral Bathrooms: Facilities that ensure comfort for all employees. Sensory Rooms: Quiet spaces for employees who need to decompress or work in a low-stimulus environment. Why It Matters: Inclusive design fosters a sense of belonging, improving employee satisfaction and retention. 8. Collaborative Zones: Teamwork Takes Center Stage In 2025, offices will prioritize spaces that encourage collaboration and creativity, supporting team dynamics and innovation. Key Features: Open Meeting Areas: Flexible spaces with movable furniture and whiteboards. Brainstorming Rooms: Equipped with writable walls, smart boards, and creative tools. Social Hubs: Communal areas where employees can connect and share ideas. Why It Matters: Collaborative zones drive innovation and help build stronger team relationships. 9. Art and Personalization Workspaces are becoming more expressive, incorporating art and personalized touches to create a sense of identity and culture. Key Features: Local Artwork: Showcasing local artists to support the community and add character. Branding Elements: Subtle branding in design elements like color schemes and furniture. Employee Input: Allowing employees to personalize their spaces with decor or photos. Why It Matters: Art and personalization create a vibrant, engaging environment that employees are proud to be part of. 10. Future-Proofing Designs Designing for the future is a growing trend, ensuring that offices remain functional and relevant as technology and work models evolve. Key Features: Scalable Layouts: Spaces that can be easily expanded or reconfigured. Tech-Ready Infrastructure: Ample power outlets, data ports, and charging stations. Sustainable Materials: Durable and timeless finishes that stand the test of time. Why It Matters: Future-proof designs save costs and resources, providing long-term value for businesses. Embrace the Trends of 2025 with Cape Interiors At Cape Interiors, we’re at the forefront of these office design trends, helping businesses in Cape Town and beyond create spaces that inspire, connect, and thrive. Whether you’re planning a corporate interior design overhaul or a commercial office fit-out, our expert team ensures your workspace reflects the latest innovations while meeting your unique needs. Ready to transform your office? Contact us today to bring your vision to life!

“Grey box” and “white box” are terms commonly used in the commercial real estate industry to describe the condition of office spaces, particularly when they are being leased or sold. Here’s a brief explanation of each: Grey Box Office: A “grey box” office space typically refers to a space that has basic construction and infrastructure in place but lacks finishes and amenities. This type of space may have bare concrete floors, exposed ceilings, and unfinished walls. Grey box spaces are often considered as a blank canvas that tenants can customize and fit out according to their specific needs and preferences. Tenants leasing a grey box space are responsible for completing the fit-out, including installing flooring, lighting, partitions, and any other desired finishes or amenities. White Box Office: A “white box” office space, on the other hand, typically refers to a space that has been finished to a basic level, often with neutral or white finishes. This type of space may have finished walls, ceilings, and flooring, as well as basic electrical, HVAC, and lighting systems in place. White box spaces may also include amenities such as restrooms, kitchenettes, and other basic fixtures. While white box spaces are more finished than grey box spaces, they still provide tenants with the flexibility to customize and personalize the space to suit their specific requirements. The main difference between grey box and white box offices lies in the level of finish and customization they offer to tenants. Grey box spaces are essentially bare shells that require extensive fit-out work, while white box spaces are more finished and may require less customization before they are ready for occupancy.

Are you looking for a professional office renovation company that can provide you with interior design, office fit outs, space planning and shop fitting services? Look no further! We offer all of these services and more. We understand that every business is unique and has different needs when it comes to office renovations. That’s why we offer up to three quotes for your work needed so that you can choose the best option for your business. Contact us today to get started! Retail Property to Rent Cape Town We have built a solid partnership with some of the best office designers, project managers and general contractors who have what it takes to come up with outstanding contemporary, vivid and practical office construction solutions that are guaranteed to be at par with some of the best designers around. We have been involved in the commercial property industry for over 15 years, and have been assisting our clients to source their new properties. As part of our service, we have been assisting with their office fit-outs and renovations needs when moving into their new space. We identified the need to have a single point of contact to assist our clients to get the right partner to manage their project. We provide our clients with up to three, fully independent quotations from some of Cape Towns Top Corporate Interior Deign Firms.

Office interior design and layouts have come a long way from the typical cubicles and sterile spaces of the past. Today, there is a growing emphasis on creating work environments that promote productivity, creativity, and overall well-being. In this article, we will explore some of the latest trends in office interior design and layouts that are shaping the modern workplace. Collaborative Spaces Collaboration is a key factor in many businesses, and office spaces are increasingly designed to support this. Collaborative spaces encourage communication and teamwork among employees, which can lead to increased creativity and productivity. These spaces can range from large conference rooms to smaller huddle spaces, and can be designed with comfortable furniture and amenities such as whiteboards and audiovisual equipment. Biophilic Design Biophilic design is a trend that emphasizes the integration of nature into the built environment. This design philosophy aims to create a connection between people and the natural world, which has been shown to have a positive impact on well-being and productivity. Incorporating elements such as natural light, plants, and outdoor views can improve air quality and reduce stress levels among employees. Flexibility Flexibility is becoming increasingly important in office design as more companies adopt remote and flexible work arrangements. The ability to adapt to changing needs and work styles is essential in creating an agile and efficient workplace. Open floor plans, modular furniture, and movable partitions are some of the design elements that can help create a flexible workspace. Motor Showroom to Rent Cape Town Wellness Office wellness is a growing trend that focuses on creating a healthy and comfortable environment for employees. This can include features such as ergonomic furniture, standing desks, and access to natural light and fresh air. Wellness amenities such as meditation rooms, fitness centers, and healthy food options are also becoming more common in modern office spaces. Technology Technology is an integral part of modern office design, with businesses investing in the latest tools and infrastructure to improve productivity and collaboration. This includes features such as video conferencing equipment, digital whiteboards, and wireless charging stations. Integrated technology can also help employees manage their workloads more efficiently and streamline communication between teams. Personalization Personalization is a trend that recognizes the importance of individuality in the workplace. Giving employees the ability to customize their workspace can help create a sense of ownership and belonging. This can be achieved through elements such as adjustable lighting, temperature control, and personal storage space. Sustainability Sustainability is an important consideration in modern office design, with businesses looking to reduce their environmental impact and create more eco-friendly workspaces. This can include features such as energy-efficient lighting, low-flow plumbing fixtures, and recycled materials. Sustainable design can also help reduce operating costs and attract environmentally conscious customers and employees. Color Color is an important element in office design, with businesses using it to create a positive and stimulating work environment. Bright and bold colors can energize employees and promote creativity, while softer and more muted tones can create a calming and relaxing atmosphere. Using a combination of colors can help create a balanced and harmonious workspace. Acoustics Acoustics is an often overlooked element in office design, but it can have a significant impact on employee productivity and well-being. Too much noise can be distracting and stressful, while too little can create a sense of isolation. Careful consideration should be given to the placement of workspaces and the use of sound-absorbing materials to create a comfortable and productive acoustic environment. Office Rentals In conclusion, the latest trends in office interior design and layouts are focused on creating spaces that promote productivity, creativity, and well-being among employees. Collaborative spaces, biophilic design, flexibility, wellness, technology, personalization, sustainability, color, and acoustics are just some of the elements that can help create a modern and

In the world of commercial real estate, the term “white box” is often used by real estate brokers and landlords to define the level of finish a space has prior to a tenant’s office remodel or tenant finish. However, it is an imprecise term. White box is often synonymous with vanilla shell, lit shell, plain vanilla shell, plain vanilla box, warm vanilla shell, warm vanilla box, warm white box and warm white shell. A typical white box space has no dry walled partitions, no electrical trunking of traditional flooring. The space may have ceilings, and a basic air-conditioning layout. Honestly speaking, every landlord has a slightly different interpretation of White Box. I have seen space that have been completely stripped out, no ceilings, no aircon, whilst certain building managers will leave basic electrical services, ceilings and aircon services. Office Space to Rent Century City There are mixed opinions on “white-boxing” a space, in an attempt to make the space more lettable. One of the obvious issues for a new tenants is that their initial set up cost will be higher than a pre-fitted out space, as two of the biggest expenses in an office fit-out is the electrical installation and air-conditioning system. The upside is that the incoming tenant has the opportunity to create the ideal office layout that offers enhanced productivity and efficiency in space utilization. Upon your lease termination, your landlord may require you to white-box the space. It is therefore important to understand exactly what the landlord requires, and what parts of your fit-out you can leave in place.

Well there are a couple of things you can do! Firstly take a critical look at your business model, have things changed, are there staff that work more regularly from an off-site location? Has your business changed and you have fewer employees that require a dedicated desk in the office? Is this trend going to continue for the foreseeable future? If this is the case then it may be prudent to look at either reducing your lettable space, or subletting some of your space. There are benefits to both of these options, and discuss with your landlord how they can assist you. Quite often your landlord will be able to assist with reducing your space, and leasing the balance to one of their other tenants in the building. This is often the better solution, as you no longer have to worry about finding the right tenant to sub-let the space. The downside is that, if you in the future require additional work space, it may not be available to you. So there is less flexibility in following this route. The other option you have is to find a suitable tenant to sub-let the unused space for a specific duration. You need to do some homework and understand the process and additional costs involved in sub-letting your space.  1. Make sure that you have informed your landlord that you need to sub-let some of your space. This is usually not a problem for the landlord, but they may want to be involved in making sure that the prospective tenant fits in with their tenant profile for the building. They may also want to request additional security from the incoming tenant to cover any risk they are exposed to. Call Center Space Cape Town 2. Get some professional help. Have look to see who are the top three Commercial Property Agencies that work in your area or suburb. Make contact and set up time to interview the Property Brokers that will be assisting you. It’s usually quite easy to see who are the most active agencies in the area by doing a quick search on the internet. Ask some pertinent questions, like has the agent had any experience in sub-letting space. Does the agency have the resources to properly market your space and are they able to facilitate the leasing process all the way to a binding sub-let agreement. Ask your broker to furnish you with the standard sub-let agreement to make sure that you are happy and that that the agreement in more or less in line with your own lease agreement with the landlord. 3. Discuss with your top three property brokers what they think is a market related rental for the space, and come to an agreement on what rate you can market the space for. Beware of the one who promises you the highest rental. The market is extremely competitive right now and big landlords are offering great incentives to lure new tenants to their buildings. Also remember you cannot profit from a sub-rental agreement. Agree on a marketing program. Where will your property be marketed on the internet? Make sure you are happy to see your space on the shared marketing platforms such a Property 24, Private Property etc. 4. Discuss your plans with your staff and suppliers. Sub-letting space can be seen that your business may in some financial distress, so make sure that you communicate your intentions to both suppliers and staff. 5. Understand the costs involved in sub-letting your commercial space. Long term you will get a rental income, but be prepared for some upfront costs. Factor this in when making the determination if sub-letting is the right decision. You are responsible for the agents commission as well as costs related to drawing up a sub-let agreement and any legal reviews of the agreement. 6. Another factor to consider is making the space as enticing as possible to a new tenant. You may need to do some internal work to the space to make it suitable for an incoming tenant. This could include partitioning off the space, re-configuring the entrance to the space to ensure your sub-let has their own entrance to the space. You may have to look at other functions, such as does the new tenant have access to a kitchen? Do you need to put in a new kitchen for them? If the space is mostly open plan your potential tenant may want an office or two, or even a meeting room. Are you going to make a concession for them, do they need to carry the cost? Speak to your property professional to get the best advice to get a qualified tenant to sub-let your space. Make sure that you done hog all the parking. The new tenant will require adequate parking as well. This can be a deal breaker. At Cape Space Properties, we are perfectly placed to assist you to sub-let your office space. We have years of experience and have helped 100’s of companies to find the right tenant to take some of their space. Not only that, we have the widest reach when it comes to marketing commercial property, both in Johannesburg and Cape Town. That’s not all, we have an inhouse design team that can assist with making the right changes to your space, to optimize your own work space as well as re-designing any excess space that you may want to sublet. Get in touch… Speak to one of our experienced property professionals today to get the best advice on sub-letting your space

Will We Return To The Office After COVID-19 Covid-19 has forced the adoption of new ways of working. Business needs to re imagine their work and the role of offices in creating safe, productive, and enjoyable jobs and lives for employees. Many companies around the world have risen to the occasion, acting swiftly to safeguard employees and move towards a new way of working that even the most extreme business-continuity plans had not envisioned. The corona-virus pandemic has had an indelible impact upon many of the habits and customs that underpin our society, with few places as disrupted as the workplace, where legions of us have been confined to our homes where we’ve attempted to maintain business as usual to the best of our abilities. The first casualties of the shift to home working has been the traditional 9-5 office hours. With many of us juggling home and family responsibilities, especially with school closures placing expectations of home schooling onto working parents, going to the office is a luxury many can no longer afford. Are these changes likely to stick when we’re no longer confined to our homes by government regulations? A survey of real estate professionals by CoreNet Global suggests the industry believes that workers will return to offices, albeit in waves rather than all at once. Before the pandemic, the conventional wisdom had been that offices were critical to productivity, culture, and winning the war for talent. Companies competed intensely for prime office space in major urban centers around the world, and many focused on solutions that were seen to promote collaboration. During the pandemic, many people have been surprised by how quickly and effectively technologies for videoconferencing and other forms of digital collaboration were adopted. For many, the results have been better than imagined.  Remote working has become a necessity for the majority of office staff, and it’s shown businesses that it is possible to maintain productivity and communication within the business unit. Workspace of the Future For years, offices have crammed more employees into smaller spaces, while creating an open collaborative atmosphere. As companies plan to bring their workforce together again in the office, numerous calculations are being made to provide an environment that will keep workers safe, healthy and productive. Among the changes being considered: wider corridors with one-way foot traffic, better air filtration, touch less elevator controls, antimicrobial materials in new construction and videoconferencing, even within the office, to avoid the conference room. Most companies are only just beginning to think about how they might change their corporate work-spaces, with some experts saying the open floor plan could be redone with better consideration for personal space and stricter cleaning schedules. Others, however, say the pandemic is the final straw for the open office. Getting back to work is not just about floor plans, but about a dramatic shift in office life as we know it. Impact on Productivity and Building Cost As both a design trend and a cost-saving measure, open office arrangements have become increasingly common. The modern concept was made popular by early 20th-century architect Frank Lloyd Wright, who believed the design would democratize the workplace by tearing down walls both literally and socially. Eighty years later, designers and architects tout similar benefits, saying the open environment allows employees to collaborate more easily. In addition to desk arrangements, designers and business will have to consider all the spaces that people move through in an office—both open and sectioned off. special care will need to be taken with regards to common or shared areas, like canteens, water station and bathrooms. Shared desks and meeting places An uptick in remote work and a reorientation of office layouts will also catalyze the need for more flexible formats, including the transformation of private work-spaces into ones that multiple employees can share. Consideration must be given to additional health and hygiene standards.  The office also will become the main hub for staff meetings and group interaction and this  will require substantial additional space for conference rooms, conversation hubs, and flexible private areas of all sizes. Conclusion Many businesses have already scaled back the number of employees required to be at the office, implementing various forms of agile working and schedules. Certain companies may find in the long run that this has a positive effect on productivity, taking into consideration the amount of time the average South African spends commuting to the office. so there coul be a shift to reducing the amount of office space required. but, it is not always just that easy, or cost effective to relocate to a smaller premises, so the answer is to re-look the way your office is set out. Re-configuring the space could work out more cost effective in the long run, and converting work space into larger, safer meeting areas. As a business you do not want to lose the personal interaction with staff totally.