Most adults would be comfortable working in an open office — but under certain conditions, according to new Coldwell Banker Commercial consumer survey.
The survey found almost three-quarters of adults (74 percent) would be happy in an open office if they had access to private spaces or if noise and distractions were limited (73 percent).
Americans also seem to want private and quiet spaces more than team meeting space at work, as 66 percent of adults said they’d be OK working in an open office if there were large meeting spaces or conference rooms available.
Sharing workspaces is also not appealing to the average American worker, as 52 percent surveyed said they would not be comfortable in an open office if it meant multiple workers in one office or workspace.
“We at Coldwell Banker Commercial Affiliates work tirelessly to invest in our affiliates’ success, so we continue to track the latest evolutions in office configurations,” Charlie Young, CEO and president of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC, said. “It’s important for commercial building designs to accommodate a variety of working styles and the more we know what workers want — in this case, an open office with private spaces and limited noise — the better our affiliates can help clients locate the right space for their people.”
Other findings from the survey include:
- 63 percent said their office could better utilize its physical space, with the top suggestion being a better floor plan (30 percent);
- Most Americans (88 percent said certain features would be helpful to have at work, including on-site food options, parking and outdoor space;
- 37 percent would find it helpful to have outdoor lounging space at the office.
The survey also found 61 percent of Americans aged 55 to 64 would find an office with food offerings helpful, compared to just 53 percent of Americans aged 18 to 34.
“Developers and businesses will need to accommodate for these amenities expected from today’s workforce,” Young said. “As more companies seek to ensure their employees can achieve work-life balance, investing in an office cafeteria where employees can share a meal together, or an outdoor space where they can take some time to relax or work outside can improve employee well-being and create a sense of belonging. Commercial real estate professionals will want to counsel their clients on the needs and wants of today’s workforce.”
To view the full survey, click here.
