The Return To The Office Mistakes To Avoid

1. Design by Committee:
When no one owns the brief, the outcome is generic. Aim for clear leadership rather than trying to please everyone.

2. Fads Over Function:
TikTok trends do not build culture. Avoid gimmicks like sleeping pods if they do not serve a specific workstyle need. A good design lasts, but a gimmick dates fast.

3. Over-Optimisation:
Density-driven planning may please the finance team, but it punishes users. You must maximise experience, not just occupancy.

4. Poor Change Management:
The best space in the world can fail if the transition is mishandled. Engagement must start long before day one.

5. Misalignment with Culture:
A slick space that does not reflect your actual behaviours creates dissonance. If you claim to value transparency but build a maze of closed doors, trust erodes.

6. Starting with Logistics:
Strategies that start with desk layouts or tech stacks often fail. You must start with a clear vision and narrative first.

7. One-and-Done Communication:
Communication is not a broadcast. It is a conversation. Avoid single announcements; instead, build feedback loops.