Open offices and shared spaces have dominated workplace design for years, but there's a surprising new trend taking over social media: the cubicle tour. That’s right—it's no longer just house tours taking over the internet. Gen Z, projected to make up 30% of the workforce in the coming years, is proudly showing off their desks in all their personalized glory! But the question is: Is this just another passing trend or could individual workspaces be the key to unlocking Gen Z’s full potential in the office?
Recent research reveals that individual workspaces could have the biggest impact on Gen Z. According to the findings, offering Gen Z employees an assigned desk is a key factor in motivating them to come into the office. In fact, the top three workspace preferences for Gen Z are:
The data tells a compelling story: while many companies have embraced free address systems to support hybrid work setups, Gen Z craves something more personal. They’re not just searching for a spot to work—they’re seeking a space to call their own. Their workstations become personalized havens, adorned with family photos, quirky desk accessories, and other unique touches. These elements foster a sense of ownership and comfort, enabling them to thrive in their roles.
Image Source: Pinterest
Understanding these workspace preferences, forward-thinking organizations are reimagining their office environments to better serve Gen Z's needs. While there are various approaches to creating individual workspaces, the key is selecting solutions that provide privacy, personalization options, and adequate space for focused work. Here are three workspace systems that exemplify how modern office design can adapt to these evolving needs:
These systems create dedicated spaces with modern panels that extend from floor to desk height. The design incorporates storage solutions like credenzas and wardrobe towers, addressing Gen Z's need for personalization. Glass panel options maintain privacy while preserving natural light flow, creating a balance between isolation and openness that many young professionals seek.
Product: HON Accelerate
These adaptable systems support various material configurations, allowing employees to customize their workspace with tools and accessories. The modular nature enables organizations to adjust individual workspace sizes as needed, while maintaining acoustic privacy through specialized panel materials. This flexibility helps create the personalized environment Gen Z values while maintaining professional functionality.
Product: AIS Matrix
Dynamic rail systems offer a fresh approach to individual workspace design. Their flexible configuration allows for creative space planning that can evolve with changing needs. Integration of natural elements, such as built-in planter options, supports biophilic design principles - an approach that resonates strongly with Gen Z's emphasis on wellbeing at work. The system's adaptability ensures that personal workspaces can be modified without complete renovation.
Product: Watson Edison
While personal workspaces are clearly important to Gen Z, they're just one piece of the modern office puzzle. Today's hybrid work environment demands a thoughtful blend of solutions - from focused work areas to collaborative zones and social spaces. The key lies in creating an ecosystem where private workstations coexist with team areas, quiet rooms, and casual meeting spots. By letting employee data and feedback drive these decisions, organizations can create a workspace that supports both individual productivity and team collaboration.
This thoughtful approach to workspace design represents more than a passing trend—it's an investment in the future of work. By creating environments that respect individual needs while fostering collaboration, organizations can build workplaces that attract talent, drive innovation, and adapt to evolving work styles.
Creating an office environment that attracts and retains Gen Z talent requires thoughtful planning and expert guidance. Our team can help you:
Let's build the future of your workspace together—contact us today!