The COVID-19 pandemic turned the world on its head in many ways, including the way in which we work and conduct business. Commercial real estate is no exception to this, forcing many businesses to rethink their office space and adapt to a new, more flexible way of working. As the world begins to recover and businesses continue to emerge from the pandemic, it's important to consider what the future of commercial real estate may look like.

The Need for a More Flexible Work Environment

One major shift that many experts predict for the future of commercial real estate is a move towards a more flexible work environment. Many businesses have discovered that remote work is not only possible but can be highly efficient, leading to a rise in hybrid work models that combine in-person and remote work. As a result, office spaces may become less centralized and more geographically dispersed, with smaller satellite offices closer to employees' homes.

Health and Wellness Options

Another trend to watch in commercial real estate is the emphasis on health and wellness in the workplace. Prior to the pandemic, many companies had already begun to prioritize the physical and mental well-being of their employees, but the pandemic has accelerated this trend. This may lead to an increase in biophilic design, or the integration of natural elements like plants and sunlight into office spaces, as well as greater attention paid to air and water quality.

Flexible Lease Terms

The pandemic has also highlighted the need for flexible lease terms in commercial real estate. With many businesses struggling financially, landlords and tenants alike have had to consider alternative lease models, such as shorter leases or revenue-sharing agreements. This trend is likely to continue even as the economy recovers, as businesses seek greater flexibility and landlords seek to mitigate risk. At Urban Office, we offer a flexible 6 to 12 month membership that includes all the on-site amenities with the ability to move mid-agreement if you need more space at our facility.

Technological Integration and Adaptations

In addition to these shifts, many experts predict that commercial real estate will continue to be shaped by technology. From the rise of smart buildings that can monitor and optimize energy usage to the use of virtual reality in architectural design, the integration of technology into commercial real estate is likely to accelerate in the coming years. All the technology you need is there ready to support your modern office at Urban Office. We offer our members access to a member portal for unlocking doors, reserving conference rooms, submitting maintenance requests and more from an easy-to-use app--all included in your cost. 

Urban Office Provides for the Needs of Today’s Workers

It's impossible to predict the future of commercial real estate with certainty, but it's clear that the pandemic has accelerated many trends that were already emerging in the industry. As businesses adapt to new work models and prioritize the health and well-being of their employees, commercial real estate developers and landlords will have to be nimble and innovative to keep up with changing demands. At Urban Office, we're committed to staying ahead of the curve and providing our members with the flexible, sustainable, and technologically advanced office space they need to thrive in the post-COVID world. Contact Urban Office in Houston, San Antonio, and Austin, TX to learn how your business can benefit today!