In the post-pandemic era, knowledge of the market and industry trends has become the backbone and fundamental tool for developing real estate strategies in companies. The shift includes adopting a more sustainable operating and administrative model grounded in technology, as well as embracing hybrid work with a focus on health, employee wellness, and talent retention.
Amidst these changes and transformations, seven (7) trends stand out, making a difference in the industry:
- Flexible Spaces or Customized Spaces: Companies will seek workspaces that can easily adapt to new schemes. “Phygital” is a concept that combines physical space with a digital/virtual framework.
- Well Offices – Sustainable Offices: With the well-being of occupants in mind, office areas and buildings should be oriented towards seven concepts: air, water, nutrition, light, physical health, comfort, and mental health. This aims to attract and retain top talent, reduce absenteeism, and enhance a sense of belonging and productivity.
- Implementation of Technology and Innovation: The future and continuity of companies will depend on how successfully they adopt new, more digital, and innovative work models. The implementation of technology, in addition to aiding and improving task execution experiences, will be a fundamental resource to enhance connectivity accompanied by innovation – transforming ideas into new products, services, or optimizing processes.
- Biophilia in Offices: Biophilia applied to workspaces involves incorporating plants and elements associated with nature to create stimulating work environments that promote mental and physical well-being among employees.
- Cognitive Buildings: With the advancement of smart constructions, a new trend emerges known as “cognitive buildings”. This concept involves buildings with the capability to offer more personalized services, enhancing the experience of each user through artificial intelligence.
- Sustainable Mobility: New lifestyle and work habits, where the times and modes of transportation have undergone a shift, give rise to sustainable mobility models as new alternatives to ensure the mobility and safety of employees. Some of these alternatives include electric cars, bicycles, and scooters.
- Co-Working in Residential Spaces: With the trend of remote work, the work-life dynamic is changing, leading to hybrid models. Consequently, there is a need to incorporate amenities such as co-working areas or workspaces within residential buildings, providing the opportunity to work comfortably and offering an alternative space.
Now, it’s up to companies to discover new ways to revitalize and innovate their real estate strategies. The key is to stay at the forefront and anticipate the right steps in response to business priorities, the challenging operational landscape post-pandemic, and a volatile economic environment—all while consistently creating extraordinary experiences.
Ana María Mejía Ruiz – LATAM Consulting and Market Intelligence Manager MTS Consulting + Management
Gustavo de la Torre Muñoz – LATAM Real Estate Director
MTS Consulting + Management.