Shifting Attitudes Towards the Hybrid Working Model
Posted on 9th May 2025 at 11:25
The landscape of work has undergone a significant transformation in recent years, with hybrid working models becoming increasingly prevalent. In this blog we will explore the shifting attitudes towards work, examining the preferences for hybrid working versus full-time office presence. We will look at the differing opinions on this matter and whether it could be a generational preference, and what to consider when designing an office fit-out or refurbishment that caters to both preferences.
Do people Want to be in the office full time?
The question of whether employees prefer to be in the office full time is complex and varies widely. Recent studies indicate that a significant portion of the workforce favours hybrid working models. For instance, nearly 40% of surveyed employees prefer a hybrid work schedule, while less than a third favour being fully remote or full-time in the office. This preference for hybrid work is driven by the desire for flexibility, better work-life balance, and reduced commuting time.
Is it a generational preference?
Generational differences do play a role in the bias towards hybrid working. Data shows that Gen Z workers are more likely to prefer hybrid work compared to their older counterparts. Approximately 65% of remote-capable Gen Z employees prefer hybrid work, compared to 60% of Millennials, 58% of Gen X, and 56% of Baby Boomers. Younger workers value the opportunity to learn and grow from in-person interactions, while older generations may appreciate the flexibility that hybrid work offers.
The pros and cons of hybrid working
Opinions on hybrid working are diverse and often polarized. Proponents of hybrid work highlight benefits such as increased productivity, improved employee satisfaction and a reduction in a company’s operational costs as they can operate from a smaller office.
However, there are some drawbacks to a hybrid working model, with fewer face-to-face interactions employees can feel isolated and find it difficult to build strong working relationships with their colleagues. It is also harder to manage a remote workforce, so you need to ensure you have an effective communication strategy.
Considerations for an office fit-out or refurbishment
For businesses considering an office fit-out or refurbishment, several factors must be taken into account to accommodate both hybrid and full-time office workers:
Technology integration: Your office must be able to facilitate remote meetings which require a high-speed internet connection, communication software and conference call equipment.
Flexible spaces: Create an office with separate areas for collaborating with colleagues and having some quite time, whilst having enough desks available for busier times.
Human-centric design: Your newly refurbished office should include comfortable, ergonomic furniture, an efficient HVAC system and should reflect your brand and culture.
Wellbeing and sustainability: Create a space that reduces your carbon footprint and promotes employee wellbeing. You can do this by sourcing sustainable materials and adding biophilic elements to your design.
How Domino Interiors can help
We specialise in creating bespoke office environments that cater to the needs of both hybrid and full-time office workers. Our services include:
Design and build: Providing end-to-end solutions from initial consultation to final handover, ensuring a seamless transformation tailored to your business needs.
Technology integration: Embedding smart building technology to support hybrid working and enhance office efficiency.
Flexible and inclusive spaces: Designing workspaces that promote collaboration, productivity, and employee wellbeing.
Sustainability: Implementing sustainable practices to create environmentally responsible office spaces.
The shift towards hybrid working models reflects a broader change in attitudes towards work. By understanding the preferences and needs of different generations, businesses can create office environments that support both hybrid and full-time office workers. Domino Interiors offers the expertise and services needed to design and build offices that cater to these evolving work preferences, ensuring a productive and engaging workplace for all your employees.
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