From Baby Boomers to Gen Z, every age group has distinct preferences when it comes to the workspace. In this article, we take you through what each generation looks for in an office space and how to create a workplace for all.
It is important to note that because someone belongs to a particular generation, it doesn’t necessarily mean that their office preferences will align with those of their peers. We have based this article on our own research and presented the most common ideas we’ve found.
Baby Boomers (Born: 1946–1964)
Baby Boomers value structure, professionalism and privacy in the workplace. Many prefer traditional layouts that have clear boundaries between work and relaxation. While Boomers have adapted to hybrid working and technological advancements, they typically prefer an environment that fosters face-to-face interactions.
In our experience, we’ve found that Baby Boomers opt for:
• Private offices with their own assigned workstation.
• Reliable technology (fast Wi-Fi, landlines and printers).
• An on-site reception for greeting clients.
• Meeting rooms for private discussions.
• Quiet zones.
Generation X (Born: 1965–1980)
This generation is often seen as ‘the bridge between analogue and digital work’. Gen X values a balance between flexibility and stability. As many Gen X employees hold leadership roles, we find that they tend to rent office spaces that support both focused work and collaboration.
Gen X typically look for workspaces with:
• Breakout areas for informal discussions.
• Soundproof booths for phone calls or focused tasks.
• Ergonomic furniture to promote wellbeing.
• Proximity to childcare, gyms and transport links.
Millennials (Born: 1981–1996)
Millennials are highly adaptable and often opt for workspaces which reflect their values around sustainability, collaboration and wellbeing. This generation drove the coworking movement and the rise of serviced offices, especially in large cities like London and Manchester.
We’ve found that many Millennials are looking for:
• Office space in sustainable buildings.
• A strong community within the workplace and regular networking opportunities.
• Open-plan environments for collaboration.
• Spaces for socialising, such as kitchens and breakout areas.
• On-site wellness facilities like gyms and outdoor spaces.
Gen Z (Born: 1997–2012)
Gen Z is entering the workforce with high expectations regarding technology and well-being. Having grown up with technology, they expect seamless integration and creative environments.
Our Gen Z clients are often requesting:
• Smart office features like desk-booking apps, mobile phone-controlled heating and integrated video conferencing systems.
• Spaces for personal development training, such as mentoring or study sessions.
• Informal working zones, like bean bags or café areas.
How Serviced Offices Cater to the Generations
Customisable Layouts
Serviced offices offer customisable layouts. This allows businesses to include areas for employees who require privacy (Baby Boomers) and those who need spaces for collaboration (Millennials).
Flexible Terms
Flexible terms are appealing for evolving businesses that may need to adapt, relocate, or expand their office space as their workforce shifts across generations. For example, an influx of Millennial employees may require a business to relocate to a building with more on-site wellbeing amenities.
High-Speed Internet & IT Infrastructure
As mentioned, the younger generations (Millennials and Gen Z) expect fast internet and modern IT infrastructure, which is provided as standard in a serviced office.
On-Site Amenities
On-site amenities, such as gyms and cafes, are included with a serviced office. These help to promote wellbeing, a key requirement for most generations.
Professional Reception Services
Serviced offices are typically managed by an on-site team that provides a range of administrative services. These align with Baby Boomers’ expectations for formality and professionalism.
Networking Events
Some serviced office providers host regular networking and social events for businesses renting office space. These help to foster collaboration between generations, especially Millennials.
Tips on Designing an Office for All Generations
The key to designing an office for all generations is allowing employees to choose how and where they work. Here are our top tips:
• Create zones – Divide the office space into quiet areas, collaboration zones, and relaxation spaces for employees to choose where they work.
• Offer a mix of furniture – Combine ergonomic office furniture with standing desks, bean bags and lounges to provide a range of options for the different generations.
• Integrate smart technology – Implement digital booking systems, smart screens and biometric entry.
• Focus on accessibility – Clear signage, good lighting and easy access will cater to all generations.
• Support wellbeing – Adding wellness rooms or spaces and providing access to healthy snacks will support all generations. Biophilic office designs incorporate natural elements into the space to further enhance wellbeing.
• Encourage personalisation – Personalising a workspace or desk can help employees feel connected to their office, regardless of their generation.
• Gather regular feedback – As with any change, it is essential to gather feedback from employees to learn what is working and what can be improved.
Each Generation’s Hybrid Working Preferences
Baby Boomers
• Prefer working in the office for most of the week,
• Value in-person meetings rather than video calls, as this builds trust and strengthens work relationships.
• Have clear expectations regarding what tasks can be done from home.
• Favour hybrid models with set office days to support collaboration and teamwork.
Generation X
• Enjoy the flexibility of hybrid working but require time in the office.
• More likely to split their week between working from home and the office.
• Use office days for meetings, training and focused tasks.
Millennials
• Often expect hybrid working as standard.
• Utilise the office for amenities such as printers, meeting rooms, and video conferencing.
• Focus on completing tasks and achieving goals rather than being measured by time spent in the office.
Gen Z
• Comfortable with hybrid working but prefer training and mentoring in person.
• Require a working arrangement that offers a mix of flexibility and structure.
• Look for workspaces that are visually appealing and enjoyable to spend time in.
Future-Proofing Office Space
Flexibility is key as workspaces and demographics evolve. By future-proofing your workspace, you can provide an inclusive environment for all generations. We would recommend:
• Opting for a service office with flexible terms and layouts to allow you to scale up or down and customise the space.
• Prioritising sustainable buildings with modern features, energy-efficient systems and green certifications like B Corp.
• Choosing spaces with a mix of open-plan spaces, meeting rooms and focus zones.
• Ensuring offices are equipped with smart tech to support hybrid working and remote collaboration.
A multigenerational workforce demands adaptable office spaces. Whether you’re a startup looking to hire Gen Z or an established organisation run by Baby Boomers, your office needs to be suitable for any generation.
We help all types of businesses find office space to rent in London and beyond. So, if you’re looking for a small, serviced office or a large managed space, we can find you a space where every generation can thrive.
