Focus becomes a scarce resource amid RTO push

Hybrid workers are increasingly struggling to focus as RTO brings employees back together, often in the open floor plans that have become the new normal.Employees rank focus as the top need from offices, according to Gensler’s 2023 Global Workplace Survey. So firms add quiet zones, pods, and enclosed spaces. But small booths don't enable deep concentration.

Adaptable furnishings grow in demand as offices evolve. No single layout meets all needs now. Employers are unsure what offices require day-to-day post-COVID. Movable components allow flexibility. Grounding office use on work type, not location, will help employers and employees figure out optimal spaces.

The key is adaptability in ongoing changes. As hybrid work continues evolving, offices must accommodate. Focus spaces are scarce for now but customizing for concentration and collaboration will optimize offices. Employers still have lots of learning to do. Adaptable spaces can help solve the focus challenge.