How Will COVID-19 Shape the Future?

Working from home has become the “new normal” for many businesses. As people return to offices, social distancing and healthier workplaces are imperative. Attracting and retaining the best employees is no longer just a function of corporate culture but also the environments in which they work.

Air and water quality and ventilation, building systems that encourage social distancing, and other solutions will continue to evolve. The willingness of many companies to allow employees to work remotely will ultimately have an impact on air quality, as commuters establish new at-home routines.“The CDC now wants us to highly increase building energy use through ventilating in off-hours, turning off demand-controlled ventilation, etc. Spaces will need to accommodate both collaborating and social distance.” - Neff, Kilroy Realty

COVID-19 has reframed the way we think about building use and occupation comfort. The conversation also includes efficiency upgrades because many new HVAC systems allow for several accessories, like UV sanitizing lights.” - Agazio, Motili

“We’ll see automated technology that seamlessly integrates into our workspaces -- like automated doorways and fixtures. A phased reduction in density will be evident via people and spaces.” - Ahmad, Sustainable Architect

While we use floor design for aesthetics, branding, and wayfinding, it will also become more prominent in terms of safety -- especially to provide visual cues to keep occupants connected but at a safe distance.” - Conway, Interface

“I believe that the circular economy will ebb and flow, based on needs and demands...the innovative mindset of the new entrepreneur will help accelerate the movement and steer it in a great direction.” - George Bandy, Global Leader for CSR and Sustainability

I’ve become more cognizant of the need to design and build for the challenges of the next decades...not just today.” - Sims, American Chemistry Council