Papago Buttes lobby renovation for Metro Commercial: A work-play think-tank space shared by the entire building, allowing tenants to design their spaces even more efficiently because they do not have to replicate similar spaces in their own suite; photo by Kevin Brost LLC, courtesy of SmithGroup
“The traditional office is dead — it just doesn’t know it yet,” says Zac Cohen,. creative director of Räkkhaus. Observing that the best workspaces today function less like static layouts and more like neighborhoods — offering spaces that flex between deep focus, collaboration, and social interaction — he emphasizes the need to design work environments that evolve with how people actually work, not how outdated floor plans say they should. “Offices need adaptability: modular elements, reconfigurable work zones, and dynamic spatial design that keeps the workplace feeling alive instead of locked into a 20th-century model,” he explains.
Space Matters Beyond Mere Square Footage
The new reality of hybrid work is one force putting pressure on workplace design to reinvent itself. Notes Mark Adams, VP and director of workplace at SmithGroup, “Instead of measuring cost per square foot, there has been a seismic shift to measuring how many people are using the space and how often.” Response to that shift is manifested in how effective workplaces are designed. “As the office transforms from a warehouse for workers to a magnet for talent,” he says, “hospitality and experience-led design principles have emerged as mega-trends.” But applying this approach to office design is more complex than recreating hotel lobbies. “Instead, hospitality design is about creating safe, memorable spaces and experiences that people want to come back to again and again. At SmithGroup, we are focused on the user experience and creating spaces that make them feel welcome, safe and special,” Adams says.
The Union building features high ceilings, outdoor balconies and 10-foot vision glass for an exceptionally bright and open work environment, and an amenity package anchored by “The Clubhouse,” a space featuring a state-of-the-art conference center, bar and kitchen areas, and golf simulator; courtesy Lincoln Property Company
“Why do we design hotels, restaurants and cultural spaces to be engaging and inviting, but expect people to work in sterile, uninspired boxes?” Cohen asks rhetorically before asserting, “The modern office should feel like a destination, not an obligation.” His design philosophy takes cues from high-end hospitality — integrating rich materials, curated common areas and thoughtful lighting that enhances experience, not just function. He believes office buildings should have flex workspaces, rooftop terraces, and curated common areas that blur the line between productivity and lifestyle. “If you wouldn’t want to spend your free time there, why would you want to work there?”
This is a whole-building approach that underlies SmithGroup’s belief that a unique experience can be shared by the entire building, not just in one tenant’s suite. After all, landlords and their buildings need to stand out from the pack. For example, SmithGroup recently helped Metro Commercial create a work-play think-tank space for tenants to use for larger social gatherings or brainstorming sessions. Providing amenities like gaming, large conference rooms, huddle and other social and functional spaces for the building is a benefit for individual tenants as it allows them to design their spaces even more efficiently because they do not have to replicate similar spaces in their own suite.
Hines’s Phoenix office was designed with a hospitality-inspired ethic, including a backdrop of floor-to-ceiling glass that gives way to stunning city and mountain views; photo courtesy of Phoenix Design One
Another unique space was brought to life at the new Fender headquarters, where SmithGroup transformed a well-known site and created a brand experience that includes such spaces as an employee retail store and a rooftop deck for jam sessions — even an exhibit showcasing the beloved and historic brand and the many famous musicians who have played Fender guitars over the years. Plus a “kaboom room” to test amplifiers to failure. This manifests SmithGroup’s premise that “it’s the unique and special elements of the space that, ultimately, make the people who occupy it feel special, too.”
As Kerri Swischuk, principal of Phoenix Design One, puts it, Metro Phoenix office tenants want workspaces designed “not just as a place to work, but as an environment that influences how that work happens” — and this holds true for offices from corporate headquarters to spec suites.
Focusing attention at an individual employee level, Gensler design director James Bailey says, “The greatest amenity at the moment is the ability to do focused work in a quiet space where you can close a door. This means it’s important for a workplace to have a variety of space typologies, offering flexibility and choice in the way employees work.” This (which he addressed in his Guest Columnist article “What’s In and What’s Out: Workplace Trends for a Changing Workforce”; In Business Magazine, April 2024) includes having correctly sized desking neighborhoods and non-reservable rooms for serendipitous calls and team collaboration. He finds it more important now than ever before to design these rooms for hybrid work styles with technology that meets the scale of the space — which includes providing front-facing lighting and designing for appropriate video call backgrounds.
Outdoor courtyard at The Square with a lush oasis and inviting pathways to connect disparate parts of the building; photo by Kevin C Korczyk, K2 Creative LLC, courtesy of SmithGroup
And psychological safety is important, according to Madeline Dunsmore, senior workplace strategist at SmithGroup. “In this new era of user-centric design, psychologically safe spaces — where you can show up and do your best work with others — is just as critical as physically safe spaces. The combination is what makes it a truly hospitable environment.”
Describing psychologically safe workspaces as ones where it’s hard to sneak up behind someone, Dunsmore explains, “We’ve learned in our research that it is harder to concentrate if you are ‘watching your back’ all the time. Workspaces should be designed with some visual privacy while at the same time providing workers with the ability to easily survey their surroundings.”
Space tucked away from windows is another example she offers of psychologically safe spaces in the office can be found tucked away from the windows. Noting that SmithGroup designers use interior and often darker places to create hidden special spaces that feel one-of-a-kind and separate from the main workspace, she shares, “We had a blast creating a speakeasy with a secret hidden door for a recent law firm client, May Potenza Baran & Gillespie, giving their attorneys something unique, magical and private.”
Adam Goodman, president and CEO of Goodmans, finds Arizona’s commercial office market is redefining the concept of the workplace as sprawling corporate headquarters, boutique offices and reimagined industrial office spaces are evolving to meet employees’ changing needs and expectations. “Companies embracing a holistic philosophy may have an edge in attracting and retaining top talent by emphasizing the three tenets of well-being, connection and change,” he says, explaining, “This approach, crafted by iconic global design company, MillerKnoll, aims to draw out the true purpose of the workplace, whether it’s for a large corporate campus or a nimble startup.”
SmithGroup’s office in Phoenix, designed through the lens of experiencing the office through all five senses, aimed at LEED certification and WELL certification to couple sustainability with the human experience; photo by Kevin C. Korczyk, courtesy of SmithGroup
In this regard, Goodman believes supporting employee wellness means creating spaces that help people thrive — physically, mentally and socially. He cites MillerKnoll research that found most employees want flexibility in both schedule and location yet still see the office as an essential hub. “That’s why collaboration areas, biophilic elements (like plants and natural light) and respite spaces (semi-private nooks to restore focus) are key,” he says. Experience with his own business validates his belief that an environment that meets fundamental work needs and also feels good is more likely to keep employees satisfied, healthy and engaged (“Goodmans CEO Leads by Listening, Workers Return in Droves”; In Business Magazine, August 2024). Additionally, integrating sustainability features such as solar shading and low-flow water fixtures, and eco-friendly materials and fabrics help protect the planet and supports people’s sense of purpose and pride.
Addressing the tenet of connection, Goodman says it’s fostered by a thriving workspace to both the organization and the individuals within it. He points to settings such as cafés, lounges and forums as spaces that encourage employees to gather, share ideas, spark creativity and create friendships. He notes that modern audio-visual tools make it easier for in-person and remote team members to collaborate, while workshop areas enable real-time brainstorming and problem solving. “These spaces, carefully designed around how people actually work, support a sense of belonging that’s vital for collaboration and productivity as well as build a positive company culture,” he says.
Blake Wells, VP of pre-construction at LGE Design Build, also addresses the impact of space configuration on connection. He notes the traditional private office model is being replaced by more open layouts with a higher emphasis on smaller meeting rooms — spaces that, often designed for digital meetings or private calls, allow employees to engage in focused conversations without disruption. “This shift reflects the growing need for flexibility in how employees collaborate and communicate, with many opting for hybrid work models,” says Wells.
For Big-D Construction’s new Southwest headquarters, Phoenix Design One translated the company’s strong brand identity into an environment that blends raw materials like concrete and steel with soft textures and clean lines; photo courtesy Phoenix Design One
Change, of course, is the constant we all live with, and Goodman points out no workplace remains static. As needs shift, offices must adapt, he says, offering the following examples: “Neighborhood settings are designed to accommodate both collaborative group projects and focused heads-down tasks, with small-group lounge spaces directly adjacent to workstations. Modular furnishings and movable walls like those manufactured by DIRTT make it simple to reconfigure a space in hours, not weeks. Additionally, designing for future expansion — or a potential pivot — lets companies avoid wasteful remodels that come with short-term planning. By anticipating the inevitable changes in how people work, organizations can maintain a dynamic environment that ages gracefully instead of quickly becoming outdated.”
Beyond the workspaces, Bailey is finding amenitization important at a variety of scales. “We’re seeing the biggest shift with mid-sized companies that are now looking for more flexibility in space allocation by reducing one-to-one desk assignments in favor of shared, multifunctional areas,” he says. These mid-sized companies, which don’t have the plentiful resources of a corporate headquarters or the constraints of a small startup, are looking for locations that offer built-in amenities such as large-scale conferencing areas, cafes and lounges that provide alternative workspaces without requiring extensive in-office buildouts. “These factors help employees feel that commuting to the office is worthwhile.”
Amenities, Products and Perks … Oh, My!
Wells reports one of the most prominent trends in modern office spaces is the increasing demand for improved acoustics. “With most employees still relying heavily on digital platforms like Zoom and Teams, there is a growing need for offices that support seamless digital communication,” he explains. “Acoustics have become a top priority, not just in open office areas but also in conference rooms and smaller meeting spaces.” Companies are investing in functional furniture, specialized ceilings and flooring to create quieter, more conducive environments for virtual meetings, plus, Wells finds, decorative acoustics are gaining popularity as an innovative way to address noise control while adding a stylish touch to the office’s aesthetic.
Shared amenity at the Union building; photo courtesy of Lincoln Property Company
He notes also that employee-focused perks are playing a significant role in office design. “With employee satisfaction being a priority, organizations are investing in more comfortable and attractive spaces to promote well-being,” says Wells. For instance, break rooms are becoming more inviting and are equipped with amenities that foster relaxation and social interaction. Additionally, entertainment spaces, wellness rooms and flexible workstations are designed to accommodate various work styles and encourage creativity.
In this regard, Goodman points out that Arizona’s competitive talent market makes perks like on-site fitness and wellness areas or generously stocked cafés help to attract and retain employees. “But,” he says, “more fundamental to success are spaces that support the entire person: settings that help people decompress, connect meaningfully and be inspired to produce their best work.” He notes that new technologies such as Microsoft Teams-equipped conference rooms, soundproof acoustic pods, light sensors and ambient sound masking blend seamlessly into this design approach. “These innovations foster comfort, efficiency and a sense of progress.”
At Fender headquarters, spaces such as an employee retail store are among the special elements that, ultimately, make the people who occupy it feel special, too; photo courtesy of SmithGroup
Amenities that were once “nice to have” as essential today, Swischuk notes. These include high-end kitchens, wellness rooms and outdoor terraces, which serve as creature comforts for existing employees and as a way to attract and retain new talent. “In Phoenix, where heat can challenge outdoor activation, we incorporate creative solutions like shaded rooftop lounges or garden-level retreats that offer fresh air without compromising comfort,” she says. “We’re also leveraging new and improved products that add sustainability and durability.” Among these are recycled and low-VOC materials, energy-efficient lighting and smart HVAC that reduce carbon footprint and improve the occupant experience.
Swischuk shares a recent project by Phoenix Design One for global real estate firm Hines that exemplifies the collective impact of these practices: Hines’ updated Phoenix office “was designed with a hospitality-inspired aesthetic, balancing sophistication and warmth. Dramatic design elements add impact while conveniences offer comfortable retreat — all with a backdrop of floor-to-ceiling glass that gives way to stunning city and mountain views.”
For CCS Presentation Systems, SmithGroup created a specialty gaming suite with mood lighting, special acoustic treatment, audience seating and a large digital interface with real-time gameplay for developers to be immersed in the experience; photo by Kyle Zirkus, courtesy of SmithGroup
Another example Swischuk offers is Big-D Construction’s new Southwest headquarters. “We translated the company’s strong brand identity into an environment that blends raw materials like concrete and steel with soft textures and clean lines. The result is a space that’s bold, modern and built to support the scale and intensity of Big-D’s work while creating a welcoming home for its teams.”
Dunsmore notes that generic perks like a gym in the basement and free pod coffee are not enough to provide a competitive in-office experience. “People are not generic,” she says. “They are special and unique, and they should feel that way in their workspace.” Creating specialty one-of-a-kind spaces is another way to infuse hospitality in workplace design.
Workspaces should be designed with some visual privacy while at the same time providing workers with the psychological safety of being able to easily survey their surroundings; photo by Kyle Zirkus, courtesy of SmithGroup
An example of SmithGroup’s use of elements like gamification and experiential brand design to specialize and enhance key work zones is its work with CCS Presentation Systems. SmithGroup created a specialty gaming suite, with mood lighting, special acoustic treatment, audience seating and a large digital interface with real-time gameplay for developers to be immersed in the experience. The result is a unique setting that supports the business and gives developers the tools they need to test and create their ideas while being exclusive to their office.
Another example of psychologically safe spaces in the office can be found tucked away from the windows, such as this speakeasy with a secret hidden door for May Potenza Baran & Gillespie; photo by Kevin C Korczyk, K2 Creative LLC, courtesy of SmithGroup
Adams adds, “In our quest to create a hospitality-forward experience we are also cognizant of sustainability and the impact of the built environment.” He shares their approach to their own office in Pheonix, which used the lens of experiencing the office through the five senses as they designed HVAC, acoustics, lighting and communal space. In fact, he notes they went not only after LEED certification but WELL certification, too, coupling sustainability with the human experience:
- Feel: “We wanted our employees and guests to feel comfortable, so we utilized both a traditional heat pump and a chilled beam solution. The system provides redundancy, resilience, and energy efficiency in keeping the space at a comfortable temperature for all guests no matter how hot it is during our Arizona summers.”
- Hear: “We worked with Turf and other partners for acoustical treatments on ceilings and walls to keep the noise and distraction to a minimum while still maintaining the ‘buzz’ in the space.”
- See: “To reduce glare, the window shades are electronic and automatically adjust to changes in sunlight providing the highest quality of both daylight, views and thermal comfort.”
- Taste: “We included a larger work café as our staff frequently enjoys meals and celebrations together.”
- Smell: “Advanced air filtration, regular cleaning and great coffee go a long way to make sure the olfactory senses are satisfied, or at least not offended.”
In this regard, he points out the opportunity in outdoor space to delight all five senses, sharing as example the outdoor courtyard at The Square that they reimagined with a lush oasis and inviting pathways to connect disparate parts of the building — creating the courtyard as a destination on its own with event space that can accommodate music, an area for yoga, fire pit and more.
“The metro Phoenix office market is always changing, and our buildings (even those delivered just a few years ago!) must change with it,” says John Orsak, executive vice president at Lincoln Property Company. He offers as example the amenity strategy of Lincoln Property Company’s Union building, the first of four Class A office buildings being developed by Lincoln and Harvard Investments at the intersection of the Loop 101 and 202 freeways.
The traditional private office model is being replaced by more open layouts with a higher emphasis on smaller meeting rooms — spaces that, often designed for digital meetings or private calls, allow employees to engage in focused conversations without disruption; photo courtesy of LGE Design Build
“Delivered during the pandemic, the 238,348-square-foot, four-story Union building had already embraced the Class A office market’s new amenity-driven normal,” Orsak says, citing the building’s large floorplates, high ceilings, outdoor balconies and 10-foot vision glass for an exceptionally bright and open work environment, along with custom artwork like commissioned wooden furniture and a custom art mural in the lobby.
But the tenant that had preleased the building was acquired by another company and the market at the time changed so that it no longer required office space. Lincoln took that opportunity to create what Orsak refers to as a “magnified vision.” Recently completed upgrades integrate comfort, entertainment and tech, with the new amenity package anchored by “The Clubhouse,” a space featuring a state-of-the-art conference center, bar and kitchen areas, and golf simulator. “Collectively, this adds a workplace addition that feels as engaging as it is functional,” says Orsak. Pointing to the additional key role of design aesthetics, he credits award-winning interior architects McCarthy Nordburg for realizing Union as a top-notch designed environment mixing hospitality and residential design elements like paneled walls, wood floors, bold fabrics and metal accents reminiscent of a golf club.
With Union as his example, Orsak describes another defining Metro Phoenix office trend: the demand for move-in-ready office spaces that allow tenants to get up-and-running quickly. “This has fueled the rise of speculative office suites with premium finishes, integrated technology and adaptable layouts,” he says. “Union’s new spec suites cater directly to this demand, providing a plug-and-play solution for tenants looking for a seamless transition into Class A office product.”
Photo courtesy of LGE Design Build
The Future of Office Design in Arizona
“The best workspaces aren’t just about where people work — they’re about how they feel, interact, and create,” Räkkhaus’s Cohen declares. “After all, aside from home, the office is where we spend the majority of our waking hours,” He believes Arizona has the opportunity to rethink the office and set a new standard — one that integrates flexibility, climate-conscious design, and long-term durability.
“Ultimately, commercial real estate is about more than square footage,” says Goodman, emphasizing the need for workplaces to champion well-being, connection and change in order to attract and retain today’s top talent — and evolve for tomorrow. “Whether for a cozy neighborhood-style suite or a buzzing corporate campus, intentional planning creates an environment where people want to be,” he says. “And that’s the true power of design, aligning physical spaces with the people who bring them to life.”
