Buildings are by far the most permanent part of the workplace. With an average lifespan of about 80 years, many buildings outlive the occupants they serve.

Recent construction trends favor wild designs, featuring buildings that push the boundaries of engineering, market return and consumer popularity. Buildings are also redefining height limitations; at least eight of the world’s tallest buildings are planned to top out within the next five years.

International architects firm HKS conducted a yearlong research study to find out the future of the workspace. They based their research on Generation Z.We have all heard of Millennials, well for better or worse - their reign is coming to an end. So, let me introduce you to their replacements - Generation Z.

Amongst the goals, concerns, and aspirations of our clients shaping workplace design today, there are two constants: money and space. In today’s budget-conscious environment, reducing square footage is one of the primary drivers for new workplace design. Firms and organizations like the idea of moving to a smaller space and saving money on their lease. In fact, reducing square footage is probably the No. 1 goal I hear about today when we start working on a new office. Square footage requirements balanced against program needs drive the design discussion.

As millennials pour out of college eager to find jobs, commercial real estate costs per square foot rise, and businesses continue to expand in our growing economy, the office design industry continually sees an increase in our ever-changing office environment.

A Human-Centered Design process simply means that we design for the humans who will use the solution. Design is not based on our preconceived notions of what an effective learning environment is or those “me too” inclinations. Human-Centered Design creates the “why” and also lays the foundation for authentic creation.