The modern office
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A few years ago, the pandemic sent millions home and sparked a tempting prediction: the office would become optional, maybe even obsolete. But as the dust settled, something more human emerged. When you’re told to stay in, being out — and being around people — starts to matter again. The same is now true of work. Flexibility remains valuable, but the evidence is stacking up that being together still improves productivity, wellbeing, and momentum.
In this episode of Visionary, Georgina Godwin speaks with Abby Brown, Partner at Knight Frank, about what the London office market is actually telling us as we head into 2026. The headline is unexpectedly upbeat: take-up has been strong, sentiment is improving, and firms are moving — not shrinking. Much of it comes down to a new reality: offices now need to earn the commute. That means spaces designed for collaboration, focus, and culture — not just a “good box” with air con.
And while the return-to-office debate rages on, another force is quietly reshaping demand: obsolescence. Sometimes, buildings that made sense 15 years ago can’t meet today’s expectations on sustainability, amenities, or experience. Tenants want greener buildings, better shared facilities, and locations that help attract talent — with campuses like Here East offering something beyond four walls: community, cross-pollination, and a sense that work is part of a wider ecosystem.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
Why London office demand is holding up — and why many firms are expanding, not downsizing.
How ESG and building “obsolescence” are driving relocations — and reshaping what “prime” now means.
What the “amenity arms race” really looks like in 2026 — and why campuses like Here East are becoming magnets for talent and collaboration.
Watch the episode on YouTube below, or listen via your preferred podcast app.
