Tuesday, 24 March 2026
The office sector is undergoing a structural shift as occupiers reassess how space is used in response to hybrid working patterns. Companies are increasingly reducing their overall footprint while prioritising higher-quality buildings that offer stronger locations, improved amenities and environments that support collaboration.
Market data from Savills and other advisory firms indicates that office utilisation across Europe remains below pre-pandemic levels, with attendance typically concentrated mid-week and lower on Mondays and Fridays. This has resulted in periods of underutilisation, prompting landlords to reconsider how office space is activated beyond traditional working hours.
“The biggest challenge for the commercial real estate market today is the shift in how office space is used. We are observing a dynamic increase in activity within office buildings outside standard working hours. Offices are hosting yoga classes, workshops, community meetings and corporate events,” said Maciej Grabowski, Founder of Blue Bolt.
In response, building owners are introducing additional functions within office schemes, including fitness facilities, event spaces and food and beverage concepts. These features are increasingly used to enhance tenant experience and support higher occupancy in prime assets, although adoption varies across markets and building quality.
“The traditional 9-to-5 model is becoming a thing of the past. A modern office building is a comprehensive ecosystem where work seamlessly blends with regeneration in spaces such as yoga studios or fitness facilities available within the building,” said Daria Stefaniak, Sales Strategy Manager at Brain Embassy.
The shift also reflects a broader move toward mixed-use environments, where office buildings are integrated with services that extend their use throughout the day. While this approach is more common in newer developments and premium locations, it is not yet widespread across the entire office stock.
“More than ever before, the boundaries between residential and office functions are becoming blurred. Residents and employees can use the same application to register for events, access coworking spaces or book participation in activities taking place within the building,” added Maciej Grabowski.
Technology is playing a growing role in managing these more complex environments. Digital platforms are being used to enable access control, workspace booking, visitor management and communication with tenants. These tools also provide data on space utilisation, supporting more efficient building operations.
“We clearly see changing expectations among tenants, who view office buildings not only as a place to work but as a space that supports everyday needs. Increasingly, users return to the building after hours to take advantage of services or sports infrastructure,” said Martyna Czarnota, Senior Asset Manager at Adgar Polska.
Sustainability and workplace quality are also influencing leasing decisions. Buildings that meet higher environmental standards and offer a wider range of amenities are generally more competitive in attracting tenants, although outcomes differ by location and market conditions.
“The office building is becoming a service and community platform rather than merely a place of work,” added Martyna Czarnota.
Overall, the office market is moving toward a model that places greater emphasis on flexibility, quality and user experience. While this transition is most visible in newer and refurbished assets, it is expected to continue shaping both occupier strategies and investment decisions in the coming years.
