Beyond Relocation : implementing flex office and new way of working

In an era of rapid workplace evolution, JLL Belux has embraced the future by implementing flex office and new ways of working in its cutting-edge headquarters. This bold move reflects a growing trend that has taken root across industries worldwide.

For instance, in France flex office adoption increased from just 8% of office workers pre-pandemic to 26% today. (source : JLL France, le flex-office une réponse aux enjeux de son temps – 2024)

Flex office, characterized by non-assigned workstations and a diversity of work environments, has emerged as a powerful solution to the challenges of our time. It addresses the new paradigms of financial management and evolving work organizations, while also responding to employees' changing expectations about how and where they work.

Hand in hand with flex office comes the concept of hybrid work, which JLL's research shows that employee preference for days in the office is at 3,4 days per week in Belgium (source : JLL research Is hybrid really working 2023). Despite the shift to hybrid work environments, employees still spend a significant portion of their office time on individual tasks, with 51% of time in hybrid offices dedicated to individual work. (source : JLL research Is hybrid really working 2023)

This shift towards a more fluid, adaptable workplace isn't just a passing fad; it's a strategic response to economic pressures, the push for sustainability, and the undeniable transformation in how we view the role of the office.

As JLL Belux charts this new territory, they're not just changing their space – they're reimagining the very nature of work itself.

Let's explore how JLL Belux is writing the next chapter in the story of modern work...

Embracing Flexibility: JLL Belux's Journey to a New Work Paradigm

Redefining the workspace

JLL Belux's new headquarters is a bold statement about the future of work. The company has implemented a flex office design that prioritizes adaptability and employee choice. As Amandine Chizelle, Director North Region & Tétris Design&Build Belux, explains: "When employees come to the office, they experience unique and varied areas tailored to different tasks and interactions. The design enhances interactions, creating collaborative opportunities that aren't achievable in remote work environments."

This approach allows employees to choose how and where they work within the office, with options ranging from collaborative zones to quiet areas for focused work. The flexibility extends beyond physical space, encompassing work arrangements that support both in-office and remote work, aligning with the hybrid work model that has become increasingly prevalent.

JLL Belux's new headquarters optimizes space utilization through diverse and complementary uses. The flex office design incorporates various work environments, each tailored to different tasks and interactions, maximizing the efficiency of every square meter.

Designing for collaboration and well-being

A key feature of JLL Belux's new flex office design is the emphasis on breaking down silos and enhancing cross-departmental collaboration. The company has strategically positioned teams in proximity to departments they frequently collaborate with, creating interconnected "neighborhood-like" zones. This layout encourages seamless interaction while preserving each team's unique identity.

The design also prioritizes employee well-being, aiming for WELL Platinum certification. This focus on health and wellness is reflected in ergonomic furniture, natural lighting, and biophilic elements throughout the space. The company has even reimagined its food and beverage services to create a more welcoming atmosphere, drawing inspiration from hospitality excellence.

JLL Belux has implemented measures to ensure the workspace can adapt to evolving needs over time. The flexible design and modular furniture allow for easy reconfiguration, ensuring the office space remains aligned with changing work patterns and organizational requirements.

Navigating the transition: change management and employee engagement

Implementing flex office and new ways of working requires careful change management. JLL Belux recognized this and took a comprehensive approach to prepare their employees for the transition. Deborah Leclercq, Director Consulting at JLL, highlights their strategy: "We conducted senior leadership interviews, exhaustive staff surveys, and focus groups to understand the unique needs and aspirations of our employees. Involving employees in the design and decision-making process was essential to empower and engage them."

This employee-centric approach ensured that the new workspace truly reflected the needs and work styles of those who would use it daily. By integrating employee feedback and involving them in the process, JLL Belux not only created a more effective workspace but also fostered a sense of ownership and engagement among staff.

Sustainability at the core

JLL Belux's implementation of flex office and new ways of working aligns closely with their sustainability goals. The M10 building itself boasts exceptional sustainability achievements, including BREEAM Outstanding and CO2-Neutral certifications. This aligns with JLL Belgium's trajectory toward achieving carbon neutrality on scopes 1 and 2 by 2030.

The flex office approach contributes to sustainability efforts by optimizing space utilization and reducing the overall footprint needed for operations. Additionally, by supporting hybrid work models, JLL Belux is helping to reduce commuting-related emissions, further lowering their environmental impact.

Technology as an enabler

To support their new flex office and hybrid work model, JLL Belux integrated cutting-edge IT solutions. This includes innovative hybrid meeting rooms and immersive welcome screens, facilitating seamless collaboration between in-office and remote workers.

These technological implementations are crucial in bridging the gap between physical and virtual work environments, ensuring that all employees can contribute effectively regardless of their location.

A blueprint for the future of work

JLL Belux's implementation of flex office and new ways of working in their headquarters serves as a powerful example of how companies can adapt to the changing landscape of work. By prioritizing flexibility, collaboration, well-being, and sustainability, they've created a workspace that not only meets the needs of today's workforce but also sets a standard for the future.

As Sebastien Giordano, Country Lead of JLL Belux, aptly summarizes: "This change of address goes much beyond relocation: it's a bold statement of our vision to shape the future of real estate for a better world."

Through their thoughtful approach to space design, change management, and employee engagement, JLL Belux has positioned itself at the forefront of workplace innovation, offering valuable insights for other organizations looking to embrace the flex office model and new ways of working.