Today's workplaces are being shaped by a new generation of talent, Gen Z. They’re redefining what it means to be productive, engaged, and fulfilled at work. From demanding flexible spaces that support both focus and collaboration, to prioritizing inclusivity, wellness, and culture, this generation is challenging employers to rethink traditional office design. Their expectations are not trending; they’re the blueprint for workplaces of the future. We explore all of this in our latest whitepaper, Workplace Reimagined: Designing for the Gen Z Workforce. Here are four trends we discuss.
When it comes to the newest generation of workers, Gen Z desires the flexibility of transitioning from focused individual work to collaboration. Traditional office setups are often inflexible and lack a sense of community, but 67% of Gen Z workers say they value the opposite; flexible configurations and autonomy. And employers agree that investing in workplace potential and community provides their companies with extensive ROI.
Ghent recommends GRVT® for a flexible and functional work environment. GRVT® is a mobile collaboration hub that accommodates sit-down and stand-up collaborations. GRVT® can be used inside and outside, providing a one-stop shop for flexible working environments.
The desire for interpersonal connection is stronger than ever after experiencing social isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic. Gen Z wants to be a part of something bigger. A company with a positive culture. A boss who cares about well-being. A job with a fulfilling purpose. And the workplace is the foundation that brings all this to life. Workplace design needs to incorporate collaborative, open layouts to empower the interpersonal culture of Gen Z values.
Ghent recommends Mythos. Mythos combines a collaborative space with an artful way to celebrate your employees’ achievement. This allows employees to craft a culture that centers community and shared achievement.
Inclusivity is a top priority for Gen Z, particularly when it comes to neurodiversity. Neurodiversity consists of individuals whose brain functions differently than what we consider typical. And 80% of Gen Z workers said they would be more likely to apply to a company who has resources for neurodivergent employees.
Ghent recommends acoustic and PET panels. Products that feature this surface, such as Acoustic Floor Partitions, allow employees with hyperactivity or sensory processing disorders. Acoustic Solutions create “quiet spaces” where employees can retreat to concentrate and focus without outside distractions.
Gen Z is a generation of eco-conscious, digital natives. Growing up with technology, they expect workplaces to stay up to date. But they also enjoy classic analog tools, like the feel of pencil on paper, the crisp, colorful lines of a whiteboard and the simple act of pinning ideas to a tack board. As AI becomes more prevalent in office settings, it takes on repetitive tasks, freeing professionals to concentrate on creativity, strategy, and big picture thinking.
For this, Ghent recommends Aria Connect. Aria connect marries both digital and analog is a glassboard which can be shared on a screen or video call. This blends the feel and comfort of a glassboard with the digital convenience of a shared screen, the best of both words.
As organizations continue to evolve, it’s clear that meeting Gen Z’s expectations requires more than surface-level change; it calls for a fundamental rethinking of workplace design, culture, and community. Flexibility, inclusivity, and innovation aren’t just perks; they’re essential drivers of engagement and long-term ROI. To explore actionable strategies and deeper insights on how to align your workplace with the needs of your modern workplace, read our full whitepaper here.
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