As individual workplaces and the greater commercial real estate market continue to reinvent themselves, we’re tracking what’s happening and what’s driving the changes. Here’s the latest, curated for you:

Office vacancies are dropping. The reason may surprise you. – Business Journal

Office vacancies are shrinking, but not because workers are racing back. Developers are building less office space, while obsolete offices are demolished or transformed into apartments or mixed-use retail. As removals outpace construction for the first time since 1988, CoStar predicts the national vacancy rate will gradually fall from just under 14% toward 13%.

The Affiliation Imperative: The Office’s New Purpose—What the Data Shows – CBRE insights

CBRE’s global data (Part 4 of their 2026 Workplace & Occupancy series) shows the office is rapidly evolving from a default workplace into a purposeful hub for connection, with rising utilization, flexible seating, and major investment in collaborative and amenity spaces. The report breaks down occupancy rates, stats on how space composition has changed over the past five years, and why it all matters beyond real estate.

Why the Future of Workplace Design Depends on Building Connection – Work Design Mag

In-office perks can make a workplace more appealing, but they cannot create the authentic sense of belonging hybrid teams need. Tomorrow’s best offices will move beyond amenity checklists to create spaces that intentionally spark connection, collaboration, trust, creativity, and culture.

The Secret to Better Office Design Isn’t the Office Design – The Wall Street Journal

Great office design is less about chasing the latest layout trend and more about giving people real agency over how they work and use their space. The WSJ shows how removing frustrating barriers, clarifying how spaces can be used, and empowering employees to adapt their surroundings to the task at hand can strengthen well-being, engagement, trust, retention, and performance.

What Readers Want to See in the Workplaces of the Future – The Wall Street Journal

If you want to hear from people directly on what they look for in an office space, the WSJ shares a collection of reader responses on the topic.

Recent workplace highlights

Shea’s recent office design solutions include modern updates and a strategic repositioning of Zimmerman Reed’s floor plan to create a brighter and more collaborative workplace, as well as introducing quality social, food & beverage, and wellness amenities to Wells Fargo Plaza. Check them out: