As organizations across the globe grapple with how best to support a modern workforce, the shifting role of the physical workplace is becoming clearer. Our 2025 Evolving Workplaces Survey, conducted in January, engaged with nearly 11,000 employees across 15 countries to help us understand where the workplace stands currently and what the future holds.
Through the survey, we found four clear takeaways:
The office remains a vital part of the workplace experience.
Employees are seeking a purpose-driven environment that fosters collaboration and delivers meaningful experiences.
Flexibility is essential, not just a perk.
The quality of a physical space and the services offered influence whether employees work from the office.
While the era of mandatory five-day office attendance may be behind us, the office itself is taking on a new purpose. A staggering 99% of employee responses acknowledged the benefits of some level of in-person work, with over half citing social interaction and the overall office experience as top advantages. Other stated benefits include easier access to managers and the structure provided by a more “traditional” workday.
More than seven in ten argue the office is important, especially the younger generations — 75% of Gen Z and 72% of Millennials say so, while only 67% of Gen X and 60% of Boomers agree. Yet the office of today is not the office of the past. Modern employees need spaces that facilitate collaboration, spark innovation and encourage community. Culture and connection have become vital parts of the workplace experience.
Hybrid is the Norm, But Challenges Remain
Hybrid work continues to dominate, with 81% of employees currently working in a hybrid arrangement — most say they expect this to remain steady over the next five years. Most employees also say they don’t want to be fully remote, with 88% of employee responses citing potential negative outcomes like diminished relationships, loss of company culture, weaker professional networks and the mental health impact of ongoing solo work.
Flexibility is critical — the ability to work remotely is valued and needed for a positive employee experience, but so is the opportunity to connect with colleagues in person where possible.
Flexibility and Experience Drive Employee Satisfaction
The survey data sends a clear message — lack of flexibility is a major pain point, with 50% of respondents identifying rigid hybrid policies as a source of dissatisfaction. Employees want autonomy over when and where they work, voicing concerns about office conditions, management communication, compensation and career development.
The quality of experience and facilities are also vital. 64% say workplace improvements would encourage them to work in person more often, with top motivators being high-quality food options, quiet areas for focused work, access to gyms and wellness opportunities and reduced hours to account for time lost commuting.
Employees describe their ideal workplace as one that supports productivity, well-being, sustainability and high-quality food and drink experiences, indicating that for the office to be worth the commute, it has to align with and consider the broad range of workers’ needs.
The Rising Role of Sustainability
Sustainability is no longer a secondary initiative. Eighty-four percent of employees place a high value on workplace sustainability, with primary expectations including energy efficiency in buildings, eco-friendly commuting options and sustainable food and beverage choices. Integrating these practices isn’t just about creating a better environment — it’s also a meaningful driver of employee engagement and company reputation.
People want to work for organizations that align with their values. Sustainable investments not only improve the environment but also attract employees who are more engaged and deliver better outcomes.
Promoting Action Through Insights
These findings provide a roadmap for organizations seeking to strengthen workplace culture, retain top talent and optimize facilities management strategy.
The 2025 Evolving Workplace Survey emphasizes that the future of work isn’t just about flexibility — it’s about intentionality. A well-designed, experience-rich workplace can become a destination for employees. When workers are mobile and expectations for employee experience are rising, listening to workers and responding with thoughtful changes is essential for ongoing success.
