The first half of the decade asked the question “Does the office still matter?” The second half of the decade is answering loud and clear: it does. From being an innovation incubator to signaling brand prestige, the right workplace will continue to be a powerful driver for business success in 2026.
People-centric design takes center stage
The days of back-to-back video calls in phone booths are over. Employees are pushing back on siloed work experiences and opting for in-person interactions that drive connection, creativity and belonging. Companies must offer a variety of inspiring, inviting spaces for teams to do their best work together.
Premium office space is a trust cue
Perception matters, especially for small businesses that want to be taken seriously. They’re forgoing subleases, skipping unappealing locations and opting for spaces that showcase their founder’s ambitious vision. By leveraging solutions like Irvine Company’s Flex+, small businesses can build brand prestige on flexible lease terms.
Mixed-use neighborhoods become a talent recruitment tool
To attract top talent, businesses are prioritizing an exceptional employee experience and frictionless workday. The ideal location for this? A workplace in a mixed-use development where work, life and play come together.
AI creates new possibilities for the office
Generative AI will be increasingly embedded in daily workflows, helping employees leverage new ways of automating, predicting and decision-making. But the biggest shifts are still to come in office space design and layout.
