Creating a magnetic workplace: how to enhance your employees' in-office experience
As the return-to-office gains momentum, with the average core CBD office occupancy rate reaching approximately 80%* in Q1‘24 up from 74% in Q3’231 – we're continuing to work closely with our customers to create spaces that truly engage their employees.
At the heart of this is our commitment to fostering social connection and engagement in the workplace. This focus has shaped our "magnetic spaces" approach, designing environments where people want to be.
What is a magnetic workplace?
The commercial real estate landscape is continuously evolving, with office spaces undergoing significant transformation driven by trends like hybrid work, sustainability, and employee wellness. The traditional office, once centred on functionality, is giving way to environments that promote community, wellness, and networking through innovative design and amenities.
We believe this shift is about creating “magnetic spaces” – areas within the office environment that naturally encourage people to linger, engage, and connect. ”Magnetic spaces” respond to the growing demand for workplaces that enhance productivity, support talent retention, and build a sense of community.
By offering amenities that cater to both personal and professional needs, we can create an environment where people are more likely to spend time because they want to, not because they must2.
Making the in-office experience easy and enjoyable: the role of amenities and social connection
Amenities play a crucial role in attracting employees back to the office by elevating their workplace experience. Properties that include services such as food and beverage facilities, conferencing capabilities, and even concierge services are highly valued2.
“Time is a precious commodity in today’s busy world. For a workplace to be successful, it needs to be enjoyable but also convenient and foster work-life balance.
As property managers it’s important that we’re always looking for opportunities to make it easy for our customers and their people. For example, this year we’re bringing a dry-cleaning service into every asset in the portfolio,” said Lisa King, Stockland’s Head of Property Management – Workplace.
Wellness-focused amenities like fitness centres are becoming increasingly important, reflecting a growing demand for work-life balance2.
In the absence of onsite gyms, we are curating moments for mental and physical wellbeing such as Yoga, Pilates and HIIT training at some of our workplace buildings.
Connection is another key principle of our “magnetic spaces” approach. This comes to life differently depending on the needs of the specific customer or precinct and can range from networking events to pop-up stores.
During National Reconciliation Week and NAIDOC Week, we hosted pop-up stores in the lobbies of our workplace assets showcasing products from the Stockland Marketplace First Nations Collective.
This activation not only enhanced the customer experience but also celebrated the rich cultural heritage of Indigenous communities and promoted 100% owned and operated First Nations businesses.
Through engaging installations, we activate our workplaces to create more inviting, magnetic environments where people feel encouraged to linger and connect.
Inclusivity and accessibility: magnetic spaces for all
Inclusivity in the workplace fosters a culture where diversity is embraced, and everyone feels valued and respected. In the context of “magnetic spaces”, it’s essential to provide equitable opportunities for growth while implementing processes that remove barriers to participation.
We’re looking at how we can expand our Sunflower Program, currently live across our town centres, to our workplaces to support tenant employees who may have invisible disabilities.
The program allows people to discreetly indicate that they have a hidden disability or condition that may require a helping hand, more time or understanding at work, on transport, or in public spaces3.
By prioritising inclusivity within our spaces, workplaces not only boost productivity and innovation but also foster a sense of belonging among employees from diverse backgrounds. This approach empowers people through collaboration and collective growth, driving organisational success.
Authenticity and feedback: designing for magnetic workplaces
To create a magnetic space, design must be grounded in intentionality, customisation, and continuous feedback. One way we have incorporated this is by creating a feedback loop through tenant employee engagement apps (Piccadilly HQ, MPark HQ), a specialised tenant portal (Stockland Assist) and opening more lines of two-way communication (Stockland Listens).
Each helps bridge the gap by allowing occupants to provide feedback on the way their workplace meets their needs for safety, communication, and community involvement4.
Leveraging these channels not only allows for operational efficiency but helps our property management teams gather invaluable data to constantly iterate and customise workplaces for the greater engagement of all employees2.
“These highly curated portals are designed to drive the best outcome from a building hygiene factor and extend to customer service and engagement opportunities,” says King.
As we shape the future of work, designing and managing spaces that foster connection, collaboration, and growth is essential. Continuous feedback and adaptable design will be critical in evolving these spaces to meet employees’ ever-changing needs.
Interested in exploring our workplace portfolio? View our available properties here.
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