Now, an abundance of different space models have sprung up. We have incubators, co-working spaces, business wine bars, work clubs, child care centres, convenience stores, and refrigerated online pick stations all devised to ensure occupiers are engaged.
But is this really what workers want?
Our data-led research suggests that what workers actually need is to be able to focus. Focus is, more often than not, the primary requirement for the majority of the working day.
What is surprising is the consistency of problems reported in the workplace. And it's the same for both co-working and conventional spaces it's about privacy and noise control.
The new, agile worker is concerned about how they get the most out of the space, whether it's working from a pub or working from an office.
So, there's no denying it, the office is going through an identity crisis. The contingent workforce is growing as some people choose to opt out of the workforce altogether, frustrated by commuting long distances and turning up to the same, un-engaging workplace.
How do we cater for the demands of this more agile breed of workers?
They require the workplace to be productive, to engage with workmates in a positive way, but also ensure that they can get the job done.
And we are witnessing the blending of workplace and lifestyle in a way that was never previously imagined.