In the early stages of the Covid pandemic, commercial real estate industry experts predicted that businesses would increasingly move toward a hub-and-spoke office model.
Many employees had moved away from central office locations—large urban hubs—so they reasoned that companies would shrink their hubs and grow their spokes. It may not be working out that way, though, if new research by JLL holds up.
According to JLL analysis, investment is increasingly moving back to the hub, with less going into the spokes. Employees seem to be happy with working at home or going to flex workspaces. So, companies are questioning the role of their central offices, and looking at how they can make it worthwhile to commute to the central office. That seems to be translating into upgrades for hub offices to accommodate collaboration and meetings—the activities in which hubs excel.
Companies headquartered in large metro areas that have clusters of employees living in outlying areas may still embrace the hub-and-spoke model, according to JLL.
Related Stories
Movers+Shapers | Mar 19, 2018
Movers + Shapers: Tech takeover
From Chicago to Charlotte, the tech boom is transforming urban real estate markets and redefining workplace design.
Office Buildings | Mar 19, 2018
The new office has roots in retail
How retail’s focus on brand authenticity, heritage and education are transforming workplace design.
Office Buildings | Mar 13, 2018
Using workplace data to create connected communities
Workplace data is being put to use by corporate service groups to provide a better employee experience and empower the businesses that are their customers.
Office Buildings | Mar 12, 2018
Sound advice on workplace design
Thoughtful design, paired with a change management program to educate staff, can both enhance connectivity and minimize distractions.
Office Buildings | Mar 6, 2018
C.F. Møller Architects and Arkthing win competition to design Icelandic bank building
Landsbankinn is Iceland’s largest bank.
Glass and Glazing | Mar 5, 2018
New $5 Billion Apple Headquarters Has a Glass Problem
The substantial use of glass on the interior of Apple Park has caused headaches for some employees, literally.
Office Buildings | Mar 2, 2018
Give your HQ some heart: Creating branded workplaces
These days, if your office space isn’t a true reflection of your brand, you’ve missed a big opportunity to connect with your audience.
Office Buildings | Mar 1, 2018
The top seven floors of Macy’s State Street store will be converted to office space
The deal is worth $30 million.
Office Buildings | Feb 23, 2018
Why the 'cultural fit' doesn't fit
Evidence shows that companies that hire on or emphasize cultural fit struggle to innovate and change.
Office Buildings | Feb 20, 2018
New Tommy Bahama HQ looks to ‘Make Life One Long Weekend’ for its employees
Approximately 400 employees will occupy the SkB Architects-designed space.