Reimagining Workplace ValueElevate Magazine › Issue 3 | Fall 2023CULTURE // PRODUCTIVITY // FLEXIBILITY // RECRUITING // PRESTIGE // TALENT DEVELOPMENT
IRVINE TOWERS High-Energy, Complete ConvenienceNEWPORT GATEWAY Everything Your Work/Life NeedsPACIFIC ARTS PLAZA OC Culture Meets Workplace Experience// ORANGE COUNTY'S AIRPORT AREA: unlock the value of experience Put more of what matters within reach for your business with engaging amenities and uniquely flexible lease options in a convenient, central location — all backed by Irvine Company’s industry-leading financial stability.All renderings and pictures shown are for information and illustration purposes only and are subject to change. May not show final material and finishes. All properties are offered for lease through Irvine Management Company, a licensed real estate broker DRE LIC. #02041810. The information in these materials has been obtained from various sources. While we believe the information to be reliable, neither the Irvine Company nor Irvine Management Company makes any representation or warranty as to the accuracy or completeness of such data and it should be independently verified by prospective tenants. The opinions expressed in this publication are those of the authors. They do not purport to reflect the opinions or views of Irvine Management Company (“IMC”) or its members or affiliates. The designations employed in this publication and the presentation of material therein do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of IMC. Individual experience may vary.YOUR BUSINESS DESERVES MOREMORE.IRVINECOMPANYOFFICE.COM
IRVINE TOWERS High-Energy, Complete ConvenienceNEWPORT GATEWAY Everything Your Work/Life NeedsPACIFIC ARTS PLAZA OC Culture Meets Workplace Experience// ORANGE COUNTY'S AIRPORT AREA: unlock the value of experience Put more of what matters within reach for your business with engaging amenities and uniquely flexible lease options in a convenient, central location — all backed by Irvine Company’s industry-leading financial stability.All renderings and pictures shown are for information and illustration purposes only and are subject to change. May not show final material and finishes. All properties are offered for lease through Irvine Management Company, a licensed real estate broker DRE LIC. #02041810. The information in these materials has been obtained from various sources. While we believe the information to be reliable, neither the Irvine Company nor Irvine Management Company makes any representation or warranty as to the accuracy or completeness of such data and it should be independently verified by prospective tenants. The opinions expressed in this publication are those of the authors. They do not purport to reflect the opinions or views of Irvine Management Company (“IMC”) or its members or affiliates. The designations employed in this publication and the presentation of material therein do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of IMC. Individual experience may vary.YOUR BUSINESS DESERVES MOREMORE.IRVINECOMPANYOFFICE.COM
With locally-based expert teams, experience-driven amenities, personalizedcare, and a uniquely flexible leasing model, Irvine Company gives you more than an office — you get an essential destination for success.SIX EXCEPTIONAL DOWNTOWN SAN DIEGO LOCATIONS FIND YOURS AT WORKBETTERDTSD.COMworks better WHEREDOWNTOWN SAN DIEGOAt Irvine Company, we take a holistic view of workplace value encompassing six dimensions: culture building, employee productivity, business agility, brand prestige, talent recruitment and employee development.This issue of Elevate Magazine explores each of these elements using expert insights, proprietary research and our own customers’ stories. We’re excited to bring them to life and broaden how you think about success in your workspace.We also delve into what makes an Irvine Company workplace uniquely valuable.In a changing market, partnership has never been more important. As a financially stable owner and operator, our strength is our customers’ advantage, allowing us to tailor solutions to their unique and evolving needs. It’s how we maximize the impact of the six dimensions of workplace value — and it’s the very reason why Success Works Here®.ROGER DEWAMESDivision Executive Vice President“When you select a workplace, you’re also selecting a partner.what makes the workplace“5
With locally-based expert teams, experience-driven amenities, personalizedcare, and a uniquely flexible leasing model, Irvine Company gives you more than an office — you get an essential destination for success.SIX EXCEPTIONAL DOWNTOWN SAN DIEGO LOCATIONS FIND YOURS AT WORKBETTERDTSD.COMworks better WHEREDOWNTOWN SAN DIEGOAt Irvine Company, we take a holistic view of workplace value encompassing six dimensions: culture building, employee productivity, business agility, brand prestige, talent recruitment and employee development.This issue of Elevate Magazine explores each of these elements using expert insights, proprietary research and our own customers’ stories. We’re excited to bring them to life and broaden how you think about success in your workspace.We also delve into what makes an Irvine Company workplace uniquely valuable.In a changing market, partnership has never been more important. As a financially stable owner and operator, our strength is our customers’ advantage, allowing us to tailor solutions to their unique and evolving needs. It’s how we maximize the impact of the six dimensions of workplace value — and it’s the very reason why Success Works Here®.ROGER DEWAMESDivision Executive Vice President“When you select a workplace, you’re also selecting a partner.what makes the workplace“5
contentscontents // e 6 Dimensions of Workplace Value A new framework for a new world of work// Issue 3 | Fall 2023ELEVATE MAGAZINE6 7More Fun Together Discover four spaces where teams play together, nurturing friendships that enhance productivi, reduce turnover and moreWork Waterside Lakes, pools and fountains transform outdoor spaces into oases for reection, inspiration and creativiCulture Club How Tipsy Elves brings its company culture to life in a n, bold spaceSolving the Why coworker connections are the missing piece8 Steve Case, Irvine Company Office Executive Vice President, discusses the market dynamics behind the explosive growth of exible workspace Social media — and social-media friendly workplaces — are inuencing where young employees want to work Using the workplace to shape perceptionTraining Tomorrow’s Talent Today8 Draw teams to the oce with what they really want: opportunities for growth New research by Irvine Company reveals surprising insights into what motivates employees to spend time in the oce — the answers may surprise youWhat’s Next: Residential-Inspired Design at Work Discover the new residential- inspired aestheticBuilding the Future of Work A Conversation with Roger DeWames, Irvine Company Oce Division Executive Vice President, on thinking like an ethnographer
contentscontents // e 6 Dimensions of Workplace Value A new framework for a new world of work// Issue 3 | Fall 2023ELEVATE MAGAZINE6 7More Fun Together Discover four spaces where teams play together, nurturing friendships that enhance productivi, reduce turnover and moreWork Waterside Lakes, pools and fountains transform outdoor spaces into oases for reection, inspiration and creativiCulture Club How Tipsy Elves brings its company culture to life in a n, bold spaceSolving the Why coworker connections are the missing piece8 Steve Case, Irvine Company Office Executive Vice President, discusses the market dynamics behind the explosive growth of exible workspace Social media — and social-media friendly workplaces — are inuencing where young employees want to work Using the workplace to shape perceptionTraining Tomorrow’s Talent Today8 Draw teams to the oce with what they really want: opportunities for growth New research by Irvine Company reveals surprising insights into what motivates employees to spend time in the oce — the answers may surprise youWhat’s Next: Residential-Inspired Design at Work Discover the new residential- inspired aestheticBuilding the Future of Work A Conversation with Roger DeWames, Irvine Company Oce Division Executive Vice President, on thinking like an ethnographer
URTURING RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN colleagues is one of the most valuable benefits of teams coming together in person. From enhancing productivity and supporting talent development to shaping company culture and reducing turnover, having fun as a team contributes to it all. Spaces designed for teams to not only work but also play together create settings where friendships can thrive.MORE FUN TOGETHERTHE TEAM THAT PLAYS TOGETHER STAYS TOGETHERAtmospheric dining is the backdrop for stimulating conversation in restaurants like Kinsley, inspired by Chicago’s storied history as the site for two World’s Fairs in 1893 and 1933.At Pacific Arts Plaza’s brand-new, state-of-the-art fitness center, teams can work up a sweat together, then come back to work reinvigorated.Fire pits and cocktails encourage teams to linger after work hours, especially Millennials, who are particularly fond of happy hour events according to our proprietary research (see page 34). An on-site dog park and walking paths make UCI Research Park a pet-friendly place where colleagues can play with their furry friends while brainstorming.ELEVATE MAGAZINE8 9
URTURING RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN colleagues is one of the most valuable benefits of teams coming together in person. From enhancing productivity and supporting talent development to shaping company culture and reducing turnover, having fun as a team contributes to it all. Spaces designed for teams to not only work but also play together create settings where friendships can thrive.MORE FUN TOGETHERTHE TEAM THAT PLAYS TOGETHER STAYS TOGETHERAtmospheric dining is the backdrop for stimulating conversation in restaurants like Kinsley, inspired by Chicago’s storied history as the site for two World’s Fairs in 1893 and 1933.At Pacific Arts Plaza’s brand-new, state-of-the-art fitness center, teams can work up a sweat together, then come back to work reinvigorated.Fire pits and cocktails encourage teams to linger after work hours, especially Millennials, who are particularly fond of happy hour events according to our proprietary research (see page 34). An on-site dog park and walking paths make UCI Research Park a pet-friendly place where colleagues can play with their furry friends while brainstorming.ELEVATE MAGAZINE8 9
WESTWOOD GATEWAY LOS ANGELESWORK WATERSIDELakes, pools and fountains transform outdoor workspace into oases for inspiration, contemplation and focused work.Water features play a unique role in workplace design, reducing stress and generating a relaxed state that enhances well-being and is conducive to creativi and innovation.” John Koga Irvine Company Oce Senior Vice President, Planning & Design“CENTERSIDE SAN DIEGOSILICON VALLEY CENTER SILICON VALLEY1110 ELEVATE MAGAZINE
WESTWOOD GATEWAY LOS ANGELESWORK WATERSIDELakes, pools and fountains transform outdoor workspace into oases for inspiration, contemplation and focused work.Water features play a unique role in workplace design, reducing stress and generating a relaxed state that enhances well-being and is conducive to creativi and innovation.” John Koga Irvine Company Oce Senior Vice President, Planning & Design“CENTERSIDE SAN DIEGOSILICON VALLEY CENTER SILICON VALLEY1110 ELEVATE MAGAZINE
6Dimensions of Workplace ValueAt Irvine Company, we’re regularly in conversation with our customers about how they can maximize the value of their workplaces. While each company’s needs are unique, one recurring theme is the best way to bring teams together for success. We frequently hear: “Our employees want more than a place to simply ‘do work.’ How do we utilize our space to add value to our employees and our business?” In thinking deeply about this question, we developed a holistic framework for examining workplace value. While companies may weigh the dimensions differently depending on their needs, each one should be considered when making workplace decisions.thea new framework for a new world of work // CULTURE CLUB// SOLVING THE PRODUCTIVITY PUZZLE// THE FUTURE IS FLEXIBLE// THE RISE OF GEN Z// THE POWER OF PRESTIGE// TRAINING TOMORROW’S TALENT TODAY1312 ELEVATE MAGAZINE
6Dimensions of Workplace ValueAt Irvine Company, we’re regularly in conversation with our customers about how they can maximize the value of their workplaces. While each company’s needs are unique, one recurring theme is the best way to bring teams together for success. We frequently hear: “Our employees want more than a place to simply ‘do work.’ How do we utilize our space to add value to our employees and our business?” In thinking deeply about this question, we developed a holistic framework for examining workplace value. While companies may weigh the dimensions differently depending on their needs, each one should be considered when making workplace decisions.thea new framework for a new world of work // CULTURE CLUB// SOLVING THE PRODUCTIVITY PUZZLE// THE FUTURE IS FLEXIBLE// THE RISE OF GEN Z// THE POWER OF PRESTIGE// TRAINING TOMORROW’S TALENT TODAY1312 ELEVATE MAGAZINE
E MAKE PRODUCTS THAT ARE FUN. " Our team atmosphere is fun. Our workplace needs to be fun, too,” said Tipsy Elves Brand Marketing Director Richard Goff.Located at Wells Fargo Plaza in San Diego, Tipsy Elves has been the source of the world’s most outrageous party clothing since 2012. What initially started as a business providing ugly Christmas sweaters has grown into a party fashion revolution. The company’s workplace matches their fun-focused brand.From a life-sized Tipsy Elf mascot in the lobby to confetti wallpaper and Christmas tree-green workstations, the space is designed for work and play — often at the same time. It’s also the perfect example of how to turn a workplace into a physical manifestation of company culture.Bringing culture to life in the office takes more than a collection of values or a mantra painted on the wall. It’s moments of visual recognition, like team photos or cultural easter eggs. It’s the thoughtful use of color, light and layout to set a mood for the space. It’s asking, “How should employees feel every day when they’re here? How should they interact?” and then designing space to support those answers. It’s treating the workplace like a company’s “home base,” similar to a club’s central meeting place.For the Tipsy Elves team, that meant creating a space that prioritizes fun without compromising functionality. Their office houses marketing, content production, product development and more, all under one roof. The space is sectioned out enough to photograph new outfits for social media campaigns and open enough for design and strategy teams to collaborate on exciting new products.“Our office is a little bit like our lab in the sense that we’re coming up with these crazy ideas collaboratively as a team,” Goff said. “Having a space that supports that is really important.”The benefits of their new office space are clear: Not only does the larger space and layout better accommodate the team’s rapid growth, but new and old employees alike strengthen their connections to the company’s mission every time they step into the space.“We’re on a mission to make the world a more fun, positive place where our clothes help customers have unforgettable experiences,” Goff said. “Our team should have more fun, too.”CULTURE CLUB// HOW TIPSY ELVES BRINGS ITS COMPANY CULTURE TO LIFE IN A FUN, BOLD SPACEgo behind the scenes at Tipsy Elves with Brand Marketing Director Richard Goff. ELEVATE MAGAZINE14 15
E MAKE PRODUCTS THAT ARE FUN. " Our team atmosphere is fun. Our workplace needs to be fun, too,” said Tipsy Elves Brand Marketing Director Richard Goff.Located at Wells Fargo Plaza in San Diego, Tipsy Elves has been the source of the world’s most outrageous party clothing since 2012. What initially started as a business providing ugly Christmas sweaters has grown into a party fashion revolution. The company’s workplace matches their fun-focused brand.From a life-sized Tipsy Elf mascot in the lobby to confetti wallpaper and Christmas tree-green workstations, the space is designed for work and play — often at the same time. It’s also the perfect example of how to turn a workplace into a physical manifestation of company culture.Bringing culture to life in the office takes more than a collection of values or a mantra painted on the wall. It’s moments of visual recognition, like team photos or cultural easter eggs. It’s the thoughtful use of color, light and layout to set a mood for the space. It’s asking, “How should employees feel every day when they’re here? How should they interact?” and then designing space to support those answers. It’s treating the workplace like a company’s “home base,” similar to a club’s central meeting place.For the Tipsy Elves team, that meant creating a space that prioritizes fun without compromising functionality. Their office houses marketing, content production, product development and more, all under one roof. The space is sectioned out enough to photograph new outfits for social media campaigns and open enough for design and strategy teams to collaborate on exciting new products.“Our office is a little bit like our lab in the sense that we’re coming up with these crazy ideas collaboratively as a team,” Goff said. “Having a space that supports that is really important.”The benefits of their new office space are clear: Not only does the larger space and layout better accommodate the team’s rapid growth, but new and old employees alike strengthen their connections to the company’s mission every time they step into the space.“We’re on a mission to make the world a more fun, positive place where our clothes help customers have unforgettable experiences,” Goff said. “Our team should have more fun, too.”CULTURE CLUB// HOW TIPSY ELVES BRINGS ITS COMPANY CULTURE TO LIFE IN A FUN, BOLD SPACEgo behind the scenes at Tipsy Elves with Brand Marketing Director Richard Goff. ELEVATE MAGAZINE14 15
See page 36 to learn which office features employees say make them more productive. // COWORKER CONNECTIONS ARE THE MISSING PIECESOLVING THE PRODUCTIVITY PUZZLEHO IS YOUR FAVORITE PERSON TO SEE in the office? From midday coffee chats to commiserating over deadlines, coworker relationships are a daily touchstone in our professional lives. New research suggests these work friendships are also key to productivity. “Productivity” can be a tricky concept to quantify. Output alone doesn’t capture it; high volumes of work do not always equate with high quality. There’s also the consideration of how an employee’s work fits into the company’s bigger objectives. As Tim Morten, Production Director and CEO of Frost Giant Studios, reflects, “Working from home, individuals were still productive, but we weren’t productive in sync. When we’re together, we can be sure we’re all rowing in the same direction.” When his team worked remotely, Morten observed overall productivity decreased by 20 to 30%. Morten’s observation is backed by data: 2022 was the first year since 1983 when there were three straight quarters of year-over-year drops in average productivity per worker, according to ADP Research Institute. Virtual tools can enable work continuity, but when it comes to productivity, proximity to coworkers matters.//There’s nothing quite like turning to a colleague and jumping into a brainstorm. But proximity to coworkers does much more than just enable these spontaneous moments. A growing body of research speaks to the positive impact of coworker friendships on everything from employee retention to mental health, which all factor into overall productivity.Having strong coworker relationships is one of the best predictors of resilience and productivity, according to research from Achievers Workforce Institute. The study found respondents who say their company supports them in building relationships at work are three times more likely to report being their most productive selves at work. Having a best friend at work is linked to improved business outcomes, including greater profitability and employee retention, according to Gallup.// Employees with weak coworker ties are not just less productive, they’re also a flight risk. McKinsey’s Great Attrition survey found that half the respondents who left their jobs in the past six months said they lacked a sense of belonging. This sets off a chain reaction: As employees leave, remaining employees suffer from low morale, are at increased risk of burnout due to heavier workloads and feel a diminished sense of company loyalty — all hurting productivity. Worse, it can take months for a new hire’s productivity to catch up to the employee they replaced.Effective onboarding requires more than training and tools. It’s also about integrating the new hire into the fabric of a team and broader company culture. Microsoft, for example, found that when its new hires met with their buddy more than eight times in their first 90 days on the job, 97% said that their buddy helped them become productive quickly. But when new hires met with their buddy only once during the first 90 days, that number was 56%. Put simply: Coworker connection counts. // Companies need to carefully consider what “productivity” looks like for their business and the role of human connection in creating it. When employees feel more connected to one another and their company culture, they’re more engaged, innovative and productive.ELEVATE MAGAZINE16 17
See page 36 to learn which office features employees say make them more productive. // COWORKER CONNECTIONS ARE THE MISSING PIECESOLVING THE PRODUCTIVITY PUZZLEHO IS YOUR FAVORITE PERSON TO SEE in the office? From midday coffee chats to commiserating over deadlines, coworker relationships are a daily touchstone in our professional lives. New research suggests these work friendships are also key to productivity. “Productivity” can be a tricky concept to quantify. Output alone doesn’t capture it; high volumes of work do not always equate with high quality. There’s also the consideration of how an employee’s work fits into the company’s bigger objectives. As Tim Morten, Production Director and CEO of Frost Giant Studios, reflects, “Working from home, individuals were still productive, but we weren’t productive in sync. When we’re together, we can be sure we’re all rowing in the same direction.” When his team worked remotely, Morten observed overall productivity decreased by 20 to 30%. Morten’s observation is backed by data: 2022 was the first year since 1983 when there were three straight quarters of year-over-year drops in average productivity per worker, according to ADP Research Institute. Virtual tools can enable work continuity, but when it comes to productivity, proximity to coworkers matters.//There’s nothing quite like turning to a colleague and jumping into a brainstorm. But proximity to coworkers does much more than just enable these spontaneous moments. A growing body of research speaks to the positive impact of coworker friendships on everything from employee retention to mental health, which all factor into overall productivity.Having strong coworker relationships is one of the best predictors of resilience and productivity, according to research from Achievers Workforce Institute. The study found respondents who say their company supports them in building relationships at work are three times more likely to report being their most productive selves at work. Having a best friend at work is linked to improved business outcomes, including greater profitability and employee retention, according to Gallup.// Employees with weak coworker ties are not just less productive, they’re also a flight risk. McKinsey’s Great Attrition survey found that half the respondents who left their jobs in the past six months said they lacked a sense of belonging. This sets off a chain reaction: As employees leave, remaining employees suffer from low morale, are at increased risk of burnout due to heavier workloads and feel a diminished sense of company loyalty — all hurting productivity. Worse, it can take months for a new hire’s productivity to catch up to the employee they replaced.Effective onboarding requires more than training and tools. It’s also about integrating the new hire into the fabric of a team and broader company culture. Microsoft, for example, found that when its new hires met with their buddy more than eight times in their first 90 days on the job, 97% said that their buddy helped them become productive quickly. But when new hires met with their buddy only once during the first 90 days, that number was 56%. Put simply: Coworker connection counts. // Companies need to carefully consider what “productivity” looks like for their business and the role of human connection in creating it. When employees feel more connected to one another and their company culture, they’re more engaged, innovative and productive.ELEVATE MAGAZINE16 17
HOW DO YOU MAKE long-term plans for your workspace in the face of evolving needs? Market data is telling a clear story. In 2019, only 4% of workplaces were flex spaces, but JLL Research predicts that 30% of workspace will be “consumed flexibly” by 2030. With such explosive uptake of a previously small commercial real estate category, we sat down with Steve Case at Irvine Company to discuss the dynamics driving the shift and why agility has become fundamental to workplace value. What has fundamentally changed in the office space market driving the shift to flexible solutions?The last few years created more awareness of how significant swings in office space needs can be. Companies used to reasonably expect several years of visibility into space needs; now they are more conservative. In that context, Flex+ space is extremely attractive: Companies can expand and contract to meet their changing needs. What is Flex+ space and how is it different from co-working?Flex+, as Irvine Company defines it, is premium, private space with a frictionless, flexible leasing experience that is either furnished or has furniture options available. Unlike co-working, the space is entirely your own. What type of company does Flex+ space make sense for?There are use cases for a wide range of businesses. Small- and medium-sized businesses that want the privacy and credibility of a private office in a respected building without committing to up-front costs or a long-term lease are the primary use case for Flex+. But large companies also use this product as part of their real estate strategy, whether they’re testing new locations, using swing space or hedging against changing needs.Does a traditional lease still make sense with excellent flexible options available?Traditional leases still make all the sense in the world as a piece of corporate real estate strategies. Flex+ is a perfect complement. Anytime you have limited visibility into your future space needs, Flex+ space is an incredible value proposition for filling the gap between the space a company can confidently commit to over the long-term and present-day demand. How does flexibility fit into the workspace value equation?Flex+ gives companies access to space that fits their immediate needs. Carrying unused space, sub-leasing excess space and overcrowding all hurt the bottom line. There is enormous value in having the exact amount of space you need with the agility to take on additional space only when you’re ready.Steve Case, Irvine Company Oce Executive Vice President, discusses a ndamental shi in the commercial real estate market and explains Flex+® workspaces’ explosive growth.isLEARN MORE AT FLEXPLUS.COMFrom traditional workspaces with private corner offices to fully open creative spaces, there are move-in ready suites for every work style.Flex+ suites either come fully furnished or with a wide range of furniture options from modular cubicle designs to soft seating in bold colors.Far from generic, Flex+ suites offer premium design elements like polished concrete floors, sleek cafe-style kitchens and open ceilings. ELEVATE MAGAZINE18 19
HOW DO YOU MAKE long-term plans for your workspace in the face of evolving needs? Market data is telling a clear story. In 2019, only 4% of workplaces were flex spaces, but JLL Research predicts that 30% of workspace will be “consumed flexibly” by 2030. With such explosive uptake of a previously small commercial real estate category, we sat down with Steve Case at Irvine Company to discuss the dynamics driving the shift and why agility has become fundamental to workplace value. What has fundamentally changed in the office space market driving the shift to flexible solutions?The last few years created more awareness of how significant swings in office space needs can be. Companies used to reasonably expect several years of visibility into space needs; now they are more conservative. In that context, Flex+ space is extremely attractive: Companies can expand and contract to meet their changing needs. What is Flex+ space and how is it different from co-working?Flex+, as Irvine Company defines it, is premium, private space with a frictionless, flexible leasing experience that is either furnished or has furniture options available. Unlike co-working, the space is entirely your own. What type of company does Flex+ space make sense for?There are use cases for a wide range of businesses. Small- and medium-sized businesses that want the privacy and credibility of a private office in a respected building without committing to up-front costs or a long-term lease are the primary use case for Flex+. But large companies also use this product as part of their real estate strategy, whether they’re testing new locations, using swing space or hedging against changing needs.Does a traditional lease still make sense with excellent flexible options available?Traditional leases still make all the sense in the world as a piece of corporate real estate strategies. Flex+ is a perfect complement. Anytime you have limited visibility into your future space needs, Flex+ space is an incredible value proposition for filling the gap between the space a company can confidently commit to over the long-term and present-day demand. How does flexibility fit into the workspace value equation?Flex+ gives companies access to space that fits their immediate needs. Carrying unused space, sub-leasing excess space and overcrowding all hurt the bottom line. There is enormous value in having the exact amount of space you need with the agility to take on additional space only when you’re ready.Steve Case, Irvine Company Oce Executive Vice President, discusses a ndamental shi in the commercial real estate market and explains Flex+® workspaces’ explosive growth.isLEARN MORE AT FLEXPLUS.COMFrom traditional workspaces with private corner offices to fully open creative spaces, there are move-in ready suites for every work style.Flex+ suites either come fully furnished or with a wide range of furniture options from modular cubicle designs to soft seating in bold colors.Far from generic, Flex+ suites offer premium design elements like polished concrete floors, sleek cafe-style kitchens and open ceilings. ELEVATE MAGAZINE18 19
INNOVATE better togetherIN IRVINE SPECTRUMINSPIRING VIEWS, ALL THE AMENITIES // SPECTRUMTERRACE.COM ALL OPPORTUNITY, NO BOUNDARIES // INNOVATIONOFFICEPARK.COM
INNOVATE better togetherIN IRVINE SPECTRUMINSPIRING VIEWS, ALL THE AMENITIES // SPECTRUMTERRACE.COM ALL OPPORTUNITY, NO BOUNDARIES // INNOVATIONOFFICEPARK.COM
N A RECENT WORKDAY MORNING, LABASED game developer Victoria started her day with a quick make-up application, picked up a strawberry matcha latte and headed to her open plan office dressed in athleisure. She attended meetings, grabbed lunch from rotating on-site food trucks (chicken curry if you were wondering) and spent some time gaming in her company’s PC Cafe before finishing the day with a group fitness class and a dinner of leftovers. But why do we know the mundane details of this random 20-something’s workday, not to mention thousands of others? Because they show it to us. And millions of their peers — your potential employees — are watching. While CEOs are busy cajoling Millennials back on site, Gen Z is ready to live their best work life and eager to share #adayinmylife on #careertok showcasing their routines. Some 40% of college students and recent graduates prefer to work fully in person and 39% want a hybrid schedule, according to Generation Lab, a polling and research firm that studies young people. Maybe Gen Z’s love for all things office space has to do with the fact that it’s a formative experience they were denied when the world shut down amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Or they’re young enough to not have families at home and crave connection. Or maybe working in sweatpants on the couch just makes for terrible content. The indoor-outdoor KINETIC at Irvine Spectrum’s Innovation Office Park is an ideal setting for #fitspo.THE RISE OF GEN ZTHE FUTURE OF WORK HAPPENS EVERYWHEREFor eye-catching content, feature team meetings in floating outdoor workspace at La Jolla Reserve in San Diego.Whatever the reasons, a dynamic workplace is a novel and rewarding experience for plenty of young employees. If you give them the fodder to share online, they can become powerful culture evangelists willing to build your employer brand — free of charge. This excitement for sharing office life presents an opportunity for companies as Gen Z moves toward becoming nearly one-third of the workforce by 2025 and unemployment rates remain at a historic low of 3.5% as of July 2023. Social media content featuring the right physical workplace can set businesses apart and have an outsized impact on recruitment and retention. With a young, tech-savvy workforce and social media-friendly perks, tech companies have been prime beneficiaries of this trend. “Another day in the life working at Google,” shares one LA-based Gen Z TikToker, who goes on to mention complimentary valet service, free lunch and a Harry Potter-themed conference room among other perks. But engaging environments that Gen Z loves to show off aren’t limited to giant tech companies, particularly on an amenitized campus. As more Gen Zers enter the workplace, employers should carefully consider social media’s impact on their recruitment power and the enormous potential impact of making social media friendliness a consideration when selecting or designing a work space.23ELEVATE MAGAZINE22
N A RECENT WORKDAY MORNING, LABASED game developer Victoria started her day with a quick make-up application, picked up a strawberry matcha latte and headed to her open plan office dressed in athleisure. She attended meetings, grabbed lunch from rotating on-site food trucks (chicken curry if you were wondering) and spent some time gaming in her company’s PC Cafe before finishing the day with a group fitness class and a dinner of leftovers. But why do we know the mundane details of this random 20-something’s workday, not to mention thousands of others? Because they show it to us. And millions of their peers — your potential employees — are watching. While CEOs are busy cajoling Millennials back on site, Gen Z is ready to live their best work life and eager to share #adayinmylife on #careertok showcasing their routines. Some 40% of college students and recent graduates prefer to work fully in person and 39% want a hybrid schedule, according to Generation Lab, a polling and research firm that studies young people. Maybe Gen Z’s love for all things office space has to do with the fact that it’s a formative experience they were denied when the world shut down amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Or they’re young enough to not have families at home and crave connection. Or maybe working in sweatpants on the couch just makes for terrible content. The indoor-outdoor KINETIC at Irvine Spectrum’s Innovation Office Park is an ideal setting for #fitspo.THE RISE OF GEN ZTHE FUTURE OF WORK HAPPENS EVERYWHEREFor eye-catching content, feature team meetings in floating outdoor workspace at La Jolla Reserve in San Diego.Whatever the reasons, a dynamic workplace is a novel and rewarding experience for plenty of young employees. If you give them the fodder to share online, they can become powerful culture evangelists willing to build your employer brand — free of charge. This excitement for sharing office life presents an opportunity for companies as Gen Z moves toward becoming nearly one-third of the workforce by 2025 and unemployment rates remain at a historic low of 3.5% as of July 2023. Social media content featuring the right physical workplace can set businesses apart and have an outsized impact on recruitment and retention. With a young, tech-savvy workforce and social media-friendly perks, tech companies have been prime beneficiaries of this trend. “Another day in the life working at Google,” shares one LA-based Gen Z TikToker, who goes on to mention complimentary valet service, free lunch and a Harry Potter-themed conference room among other perks. But engaging environments that Gen Z loves to show off aren’t limited to giant tech companies, particularly on an amenitized campus. As more Gen Zers enter the workplace, employers should carefully consider social media’s impact on their recruitment power and the enormous potential impact of making social media friendliness a consideration when selecting or designing a work space.23ELEVATE MAGAZINE22
Be the envy of social media in work-ready cabanas at Spectrum Terrace’s only-of-its-kind pool area in Irvine Spectrum.HERE ARE THREE WAYS TO MAKE YOUR WORKPLACE #OFFICETOK WORTHY//To appeal to Gen Z and land in their feeds, comfortable meet-up spaces are a must-have, and the inclusion of colleagues in content can amplify reach. Inside the office, think breakrooms with cozy furniture, small huddle rooms for one-on-one meetings and flexible interiors that can evolve with workers’ needs, from workstations one day to team-wide gathering spots the next. Across the campus, look for amenities such as fire pits, outdoor kitchens and open-air workspaces to inspire ongoing collaboration and group selfies.//State-of-the-art gyms with spin studios. Tasty, organic meals from top chefs. Work-ready, poolside cabanas. Self-pour bars. The more envy-inducing the better for Gen Z. But don’t just focus on in-office perks. When sharing a day in their lives, the local environment matters too. Situating your business close to walking trails, resort-style living, high-end shops and restaurants creates a halo effect on your brand.// Don’t forget the view And since we’re talking about content production, don’t overlook the appeal of a good backdrop. Maybe Harry Potter-themed conference rooms aren’t on brand for your company, but creative details, statement art and residential-inspired interior design all pop on camera. So do outdoor spaces from wooded paths and lush landscaping to water features and sweeping views of a city skyline.ELEVATE MAGAZINE24 25
Be the envy of social media in work-ready cabanas at Spectrum Terrace’s only-of-its-kind pool area in Irvine Spectrum.HERE ARE THREE WAYS TO MAKE YOUR WORKPLACE #OFFICETOK WORTHY//To appeal to Gen Z and land in their feeds, comfortable meet-up spaces are a must-have, and the inclusion of colleagues in content can amplify reach. Inside the office, think breakrooms with cozy furniture, small huddle rooms for one-on-one meetings and flexible interiors that can evolve with workers’ needs, from workstations one day to team-wide gathering spots the next. Across the campus, look for amenities such as fire pits, outdoor kitchens and open-air workspaces to inspire ongoing collaboration and group selfies.//State-of-the-art gyms with spin studios. Tasty, organic meals from top chefs. Work-ready, poolside cabanas. Self-pour bars. The more envy-inducing the better for Gen Z. But don’t just focus on in-office perks. When sharing a day in their lives, the local environment matters too. Situating your business close to walking trails, resort-style living, high-end shops and restaurants creates a halo effect on your brand.// Don’t forget the view And since we’re talking about content production, don’t overlook the appeal of a good backdrop. Maybe Harry Potter-themed conference rooms aren’t on brand for your company, but creative details, statement art and residential-inspired interior design all pop on camera. So do outdoor spaces from wooded paths and lush landscaping to water features and sweeping views of a city skyline.ELEVATE MAGAZINE24 25
Using the workplace to shape perception HEN A GROUP OF 50 CFOs lost their space for a networking event, Paul Short, Office Managing Partner of leading global accounting firm RSM, saw an opportunity. Newly located in brand-new, resort-like Spectrum Terra-ce, RSM’s hosting the prominent group was brand-building gold. “Our workplace prioritizes collaboration, con-nectivity and wellness, which delivers a strong statement about who we are and how we conduct business,” Short says. “We love any opportunity to bring our industry peers to the campus and are now planning grand open houses for our clients, targets and prospects.” Although employees are the primary be-neficiaries of a premium office and location, they aren’t the only audience. Perceptions of a company by current clients, potential clients, prospective employees and the greater public are impacted as well. Highly amenitized, premium offices in prime loca-tions are a powerful tool for communicating a company’s success, values and culture. Even with the shift to hybrid work, a phy-sical presence is a critical differentiator. It’s a big reason more companies aren’t just rethin-king their offices, but moving into higher-end spaces. Rents in top-tier office buildings grew by 4.8% in 2022 — as they fell for buildings with less prestige, according to JLL. This flight to quality comes as organizations seek out the best spaces to lure workers back to the office and boost their brand, prioritizing financially stable ownership with the ba-lance sheet and liquidity to ensure ongoing excellence for the lease duration.workplaces oer seings for client interaction that a computer screen can’t compete with. BOOST BRAND RECOGNITIONBuilding-top signage can offer exposure to more than 100,000 people per day and even make a brand an iconic part of a city skyline. Look for buildings that offer bold signage opportunities with visibility along major thoroughfares, near retail centers and at prominent intersections. ENHANCE CREDIBILITYA prestigious location in a coveted neighborhood with proximity to Fortune 500 companies conveys that you are well-established. For small and medium-sized companies, that credibility can be priceless, earning the confidence of prospective clients by leveraging the halo effect of adjacent global powerhouses. SHAPE FIRST IMPRESSIONSGrand lobby spaces with soaring glass, premium interior finishes and impressive architecture project success even before prospective talent and clients walk through your Bold signage in high visibility locations, like the Sega HQ signage at Innovation Office Park, enhances prestige and keeps your brand top of mind among potential clients and customers.office doors. Design-forward seating areas and connected amenity spaces bring the lobby to life, helping visitors perceive your brand as energetic and forward-thinking. ENGAGE CLIENTSDynamic settings are essential for actively engaging clients and customers. From indoor-outdoor event spaces with connected dining to open air meeting rooms, high-end workplaces offer settings for client interaction that a computer screen can’t compete with. DELIVER AN OUTSIZED SENSE OF SCALE Flexible space can provide access to the prestige of a high-end campus while eliminating up-front costs when companies are not ready to commit to long-term leases or thousands of square feet of space. Unlike co-working offices, Flex+ space is private, customized and indistin-guishable to visitors from other workspaces in the same building, while preserving the ability to scale when it’s time. Here are your workplace can inuence your brand’s perception.The indoor-outdoor lobby of 611 Anton Boulevard at Pacific Arts Plaza in Costa Mesa’s elegant arts and culture district, communicates success and sophistication.Buildings in highly trafficked locations, like 225 Broadway in Downtown San Diego, generate millions of impressions per year.ELEVATE MAGAZINE26 27
Using the workplace to shape perception HEN A GROUP OF 50 CFOs lost their space for a networking event, Paul Short, Office Managing Partner of leading global accounting firm RSM, saw an opportunity. Newly located in brand-new, resort-like Spectrum Terra-ce, RSM’s hosting the prominent group was brand-building gold. “Our workplace prioritizes collaboration, con-nectivity and wellness, which delivers a strong statement about who we are and how we conduct business,” Short says. “We love any opportunity to bring our industry peers to the campus and are now planning grand open houses for our clients, targets and prospects.” Although employees are the primary be-neficiaries of a premium office and location, they aren’t the only audience. Perceptions of a company by current clients, potential clients, prospective employees and the greater public are impacted as well. Highly amenitized, premium offices in prime loca-tions are a powerful tool for communicating a company’s success, values and culture. Even with the shift to hybrid work, a phy-sical presence is a critical differentiator. It’s a big reason more companies aren’t just rethin-king their offices, but moving into higher-end spaces. Rents in top-tier office buildings grew by 4.8% in 2022 — as they fell for buildings with less prestige, according to JLL. This flight to quality comes as organizations seek out the best spaces to lure workers back to the office and boost their brand, prioritizing financially stable ownership with the ba-lance sheet and liquidity to ensure ongoing excellence for the lease duration.workplaces oer seings for client interaction that a computer screen can’t compete with. BOOST BRAND RECOGNITIONBuilding-top signage can offer exposure to more than 100,000 people per day and even make a brand an iconic part of a city skyline. Look for buildings that offer bold signage opportunities with visibility along major thoroughfares, near retail centers and at prominent intersections. ENHANCE CREDIBILITYA prestigious location in a coveted neighborhood with proximity to Fortune 500 companies conveys that you are well-established. For small and medium-sized companies, that credibility can be priceless, earning the confidence of prospective clients by leveraging the halo effect of adjacent global powerhouses. SHAPE FIRST IMPRESSIONSGrand lobby spaces with soaring glass, premium interior finishes and impressive architecture project success even before prospective talent and clients walk through your Bold signage in high visibility locations, like the Sega HQ signage at Innovation Office Park, enhances prestige and keeps your brand top of mind among potential clients and customers.office doors. Design-forward seating areas and connected amenity spaces bring the lobby to life, helping visitors perceive your brand as energetic and forward-thinking. ENGAGE CLIENTSDynamic settings are essential for actively engaging clients and customers. From indoor-outdoor event spaces with connected dining to open air meeting rooms, high-end workplaces offer settings for client interaction that a computer screen can’t compete with. DELIVER AN OUTSIZED SENSE OF SCALE Flexible space can provide access to the prestige of a high-end campus while eliminating up-front costs when companies are not ready to commit to long-term leases or thousands of square feet of space. Unlike co-working offices, Flex+ space is private, customized and indistin-guishable to visitors from other workspaces in the same building, while preserving the ability to scale when it’s time. Here are your workplace can inuence your brand’s perception.The indoor-outdoor lobby of 611 Anton Boulevard at Pacific Arts Plaza in Costa Mesa’s elegant arts and culture district, communicates success and sophistication.Buildings in highly trafficked locations, like 225 Broadway in Downtown San Diego, generate millions of impressions per year.ELEVATE MAGAZINE26 27
Training Tomorrow’s Give your team what they want most: the opportuni to growROM CONCERTS WITH POP STARS and wine tasting to swag bags and wellness Wednesdays, companies are throwing special events and heaping freebies on employees to get remote workers excited to come to the office, hoping enough carrots will negate the need for a stick. But is that actually what employees value? One-off perks might attract workers for the day, but something else will actually keep them coming back: opportunities for career growth and mentorship. After three years of reduced access to formal and informal learning opportunities, workers, especially younger ones, are desperate to connect with colleagues and grow and advance in their careers.//Current workers, particularly early- and mid-career employees, have shifted their career priorities toward professional growth and development. In fact, more than half of employees fear their skills have gone stale since the onset of the pandemic, and three out of four Millennial and Gen Z employees are likely to quit within the next year because of a lack of skills development opportunities, according to a 2022 study by Amazon and Workplace Intelligence. The vast majority are making skills development a top priority in 2023.The situation becomes even more critical when employers consider the impending retirement of Baby Boomers and the fact that nearly half of Generation X employees are contemplating early retirement, as noted by Korn Ferry. This generational transition raises concerns about leadership succession and the readiness of Millennials to step into leadership roles. //Research is making it increasingly clear that the best way to nurture tomorrow’s talent today is through in-person connection and collaboration.Beyond the commonly discussed proximity bias, which acknowledges that employees who spend more time in face-to-face interactions with managers often advance faster, lies a more intricate reality. The true essence lies in the exposure to in-person interactions, which leads to mentorship, feedback and accelerated professional growth. Although proximity bias may seem like an unconscious bias, it is rooted in the profound benefits of in-person collaboration.Employees who work in the office spend approximately 40% more time engaging in both receiving and providing mentorship compared with their remote counterparts, according to the March 2023 Survey of Working Arrangements and Attitudes conducted by the joint academic initiative WFH Research.The impact on women and young workers is even greater than average, according to the economic research paper “The Power of Proximity,” by Natalia Emanuel of the New York Federal Reserve Bank, Emma Harrington of the University of Iowa and Amanda Pallais at Harvard University. The study at a Fortune 500 company found the move to remote work reduced the feedback that engineers received, particularly young engineers and female engineers. Both groups were more likely to quit because of it.At UCI Research Park, landscape architecture firm ima uses open collaboration spaces to discuss project plans, opening the door to conversation among the broader team and creating passive learning opportunities for those working nearby.Networking events, like this one at Innovation Office Park, create the opportunity for employees to connect across teams and seniority levels, promoting mentorship crucial to professional development.ELEVATE MAGAZINE28 29
Training Tomorrow’s Give your team what they want most: the opportuni to growROM CONCERTS WITH POP STARS and wine tasting to swag bags and wellness Wednesdays, companies are throwing special events and heaping freebies on employees to get remote workers excited to come to the office, hoping enough carrots will negate the need for a stick. But is that actually what employees value? One-off perks might attract workers for the day, but something else will actually keep them coming back: opportunities for career growth and mentorship. After three years of reduced access to formal and informal learning opportunities, workers, especially younger ones, are desperate to connect with colleagues and grow and advance in their careers.//Current workers, particularly early- and mid-career employees, have shifted their career priorities toward professional growth and development. In fact, more than half of employees fear their skills have gone stale since the onset of the pandemic, and three out of four Millennial and Gen Z employees are likely to quit within the next year because of a lack of skills development opportunities, according to a 2022 study by Amazon and Workplace Intelligence. The vast majority are making skills development a top priority in 2023.The situation becomes even more critical when employers consider the impending retirement of Baby Boomers and the fact that nearly half of Generation X employees are contemplating early retirement, as noted by Korn Ferry. This generational transition raises concerns about leadership succession and the readiness of Millennials to step into leadership roles. //Research is making it increasingly clear that the best way to nurture tomorrow’s talent today is through in-person connection and collaboration.Beyond the commonly discussed proximity bias, which acknowledges that employees who spend more time in face-to-face interactions with managers often advance faster, lies a more intricate reality. The true essence lies in the exposure to in-person interactions, which leads to mentorship, feedback and accelerated professional growth. Although proximity bias may seem like an unconscious bias, it is rooted in the profound benefits of in-person collaboration.Employees who work in the office spend approximately 40% more time engaging in both receiving and providing mentorship compared with their remote counterparts, according to the March 2023 Survey of Working Arrangements and Attitudes conducted by the joint academic initiative WFH Research.The impact on women and young workers is even greater than average, according to the economic research paper “The Power of Proximity,” by Natalia Emanuel of the New York Federal Reserve Bank, Emma Harrington of the University of Iowa and Amanda Pallais at Harvard University. The study at a Fortune 500 company found the move to remote work reduced the feedback that engineers received, particularly young engineers and female engineers. Both groups were more likely to quit because of it.At UCI Research Park, landscape architecture firm ima uses open collaboration spaces to discuss project plans, opening the door to conversation among the broader team and creating passive learning opportunities for those working nearby.Networking events, like this one at Innovation Office Park, create the opportunity for employees to connect across teams and seniority levels, promoting mentorship crucial to professional development.ELEVATE MAGAZINE28 29
DESIGN COLLABORATIVE SPACESDedicated physical spaces within the workplace can serve as hubs for team-based activities, brainstorming sessions and mentorship programs, fostering a culture of continuous learning. Encouraging cross-functional collaboration in these spaces further enhances their potential by facilitating the transfer of knowledge and expertise across the organization. EMBRACE BLENDED LEARNINGAdopt a blended learning approach that combines the benefits of remote and in-person training. Research from the Brandon Hall Group reveals that organizations employing blended learning witness a 30% increase in employee engagement and a 26% boost in knowledge // The mentorship, feedback and learning opportunities that naturally occur through face-to-face interactions are irreplaceable. Encouraging employees to come together in shared physical spaces fosters mentorship, knowledge exchange and the formation of robust professional networks.retention. Leverage technology to provide pre-training modules and digital resources that can be accessed remotely. Follow up with in-person workshops, seminars and hands-on exercises to reinforce learning and foster interpersonal connections. FACILITATE NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIESFormal mentorship programs can be highly impactful but talent benefits most from a robust support system of formal and informal mentors. In-person networking events, conferences and seminars are pivotal in fostering professional connections where these crucial relationships are formed and nurtured.Spaces like Venue71 Meeting & Event Center at 71 South Wacker in Chicago open up a wide range of possibilities for formal learning.your termsyour spaceyour movea better workplace search starts at flexplus.comFind private, move-in ready spaces where experience-driven amenities and HQ-quality design meet the speed and exibility your team needs.ELEVATE MAGAZINE30
DESIGN COLLABORATIVE SPACESDedicated physical spaces within the workplace can serve as hubs for team-based activities, brainstorming sessions and mentorship programs, fostering a culture of continuous learning. Encouraging cross-functional collaboration in these spaces further enhances their potential by facilitating the transfer of knowledge and expertise across the organization. EMBRACE BLENDED LEARNINGAdopt a blended learning approach that combines the benefits of remote and in-person training. Research from the Brandon Hall Group reveals that organizations employing blended learning witness a 30% increase in employee engagement and a 26% boost in knowledge // The mentorship, feedback and learning opportunities that naturally occur through face-to-face interactions are irreplaceable. Encouraging employees to come together in shared physical spaces fosters mentorship, knowledge exchange and the formation of robust professional networks.retention. Leverage technology to provide pre-training modules and digital resources that can be accessed remotely. Follow up with in-person workshops, seminars and hands-on exercises to reinforce learning and foster interpersonal connections. FACILITATE NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIESFormal mentorship programs can be highly impactful but talent benefits most from a robust support system of formal and informal mentors. In-person networking events, conferences and seminars are pivotal in fostering professional connections where these crucial relationships are formed and nurtured.Spaces like Venue71 Meeting & Event Center at 71 South Wacker in Chicago open up a wide range of possibilities for formal learning.your termsyour spaceyour movea better workplace search starts at flexplus.comFind private, move-in ready spaces where experience-driven amenities and HQ-quality design meet the speed and exibility your team needs.ELEVATE MAGAZINE30
New research reveals surprising insights into what motivates employees to spend time in the office and how a holistic approach encompassing these generational differences can bring teams together better. The results will change how you think about your workplace’s value.What dierent generations want in the workplaceHow do we maximize our workplace’s value? As we set out to answer this question for our customers, we started by considering the myriad ways the workplace is used every day: A place to socialize with coworkers. Space for focused work. Opportunities for face time with company leadership. When it comes to the workplace, different generations have different needs, and they’re not always what companies assume. Irvine Company partnered with independent research firm Wakefield Research to dig deeper into these differences. The survey of 500 Southern California office professionals explores generational differences in how Gen Zers, Millennials, Gen Xers and Baby Boomers feel about the benefits of coming into the office, what events they value, and the amenities that motivate attendance and foster productivity. The results may surprise you. Contrary to popular belief, it’s not Baby Boomers who believe most strongly in the importance of being in the office: it’s Millennials. Gen Xers are the most dissatisfied with their workplace experience: They report their companies putting the least effort into creating an engaging office that meets their needs. And Gen Zers care the least about the workplace being fun. They’re craving quiet spaces, similar to a college library. One finding was universal: Across all age groups, 9 in 10 professionals say that going into the office regularly makes them feel more connected to their company’s culture, purpose and values.Beyond that, strong generational differences support the need for a multi-faceted approach to bringing teams together. Understanding these differences is key to maximizing the workplace’s value and creating an environment where all employees genuinely want to be. ELEVATE MAGAZINE32 33
New research reveals surprising insights into what motivates employees to spend time in the office and how a holistic approach encompassing these generational differences can bring teams together better. The results will change how you think about your workplace’s value.What dierent generations want in the workplaceHow do we maximize our workplace’s value? As we set out to answer this question for our customers, we started by considering the myriad ways the workplace is used every day: A place to socialize with coworkers. Space for focused work. Opportunities for face time with company leadership. When it comes to the workplace, different generations have different needs, and they’re not always what companies assume. Irvine Company partnered with independent research firm Wakefield Research to dig deeper into these differences. The survey of 500 Southern California office professionals explores generational differences in how Gen Zers, Millennials, Gen Xers and Baby Boomers feel about the benefits of coming into the office, what events they value, and the amenities that motivate attendance and foster productivity. The results may surprise you. Contrary to popular belief, it’s not Baby Boomers who believe most strongly in the importance of being in the office: it’s Millennials. Gen Xers are the most dissatisfied with their workplace experience: They report their companies putting the least effort into creating an engaging office that meets their needs. And Gen Zers care the least about the workplace being fun. They’re craving quiet spaces, similar to a college library. One finding was universal: Across all age groups, 9 in 10 professionals say that going into the office regularly makes them feel more connected to their company’s culture, purpose and values.Beyond that, strong generational differences support the need for a multi-faceted approach to bringing teams together. Understanding these differences is key to maximizing the workplace’s value and creating an environment where all employees genuinely want to be. ELEVATE MAGAZINE32 33
“I NEED TO BE IN THE OFFICE TO GROW MY CAREER”Percentage of respondents who say “strongly agree”The office matters most to MillennialsIt’s not Baby Boomers and Gen X who believe most strongly in the value of the office; it’s Millennials, and they are highly focused on career advancement. They express the greatest motivation to come together in person, especially for access to senior management, and the highest interest in attending events.KEY FINDINGGen Z cares the least about work being “fun”Everyone appreciates perks, but companies counting on foosball tables and beer on tap to draw their youngest employees into the office may be disappointed in the results. Gen Z sees the workplace as a continuation of college, but “fun” is not the goal —community is.TAKE ACTION Help Gen Zers build community and their career. Give your youngest employees quiet, library-like spaces and exposure to different methods of thinking and problem solving. Consider offering hackathons or organizing cross-functional teams that give Gen Zers the opportunity to pitch new ideas to the organization while strengthening their coworker friendships.WHAT DOES GEN Z WANT?GEN Z & CAREER GROWTH“a workplace that facilitates career advancement” is the most important feature in a workplace“exposure to different methods of thinking” is the top benefit of being in the officeWHAT MOTIVATES MILLENNIALS TO BE IN THE OFFICE?TAKE ACTION Look to Millennials to be your leaders in creating momentum around time in the office.Eager for opportunities to advance their careers, Millennials will be your best partners, encouraging attendance at events and proactively interacting with employees across the company.Create learning opportunities targeted at Millennials. Millenials are likely to be mid-senior or senior employees with leadership aspirations, focused on growing leadership skills, including managing teams, influencing organizations and strategic planning.KEY FINDING KEY FINDING 0 1 MORE RECOGNITION FOR MY CONTRIBUTIONS+23%OBSERVING WORK ETHIC OF OTHERS+63%+63%+67%+52%+75%+44%+68%+59%GEN ZMILLENNIALSGEN XBABY BOOMERS 38%58%28%13%EXPOSURE TO DIFFERENT METHODS OF THINKINGINTERNAL NETWORKING FOR CAREER ADVANCEMENTGREATER CONNECTION WITH COMPANY CULTUREMEETING NEW PEOPLE ACROSS COMPANYGREATER INSIGHT INTO WHAT’S HAPPENING ACROSS THE BUSINESSSTRENGTHENING SOCIAL TIES WITH COWORKERS 59%want shared quiet spaces 58%want to see work friendsGen Z craves shared quiet spaces, similar to a college library. They are the least likely of all generations to stay at a company for a fun and engaging environment. But they are also the only generation to name “colleagues who are also close friends” as a key factor motivating them to come to the office. Like their Millennial counterparts, Gen Z is also focused on career advancement opportunities in the workplace.ELEVATE MAGAZINE34 35
“I NEED TO BE IN THE OFFICE TO GROW MY CAREER”Percentage of respondents who say “strongly agree”The office matters most to MillennialsIt’s not Baby Boomers and Gen X who believe most strongly in the value of the office; it’s Millennials, and they are highly focused on career advancement. They express the greatest motivation to come together in person, especially for access to senior management, and the highest interest in attending events.KEY FINDINGGen Z cares the least about work being “fun”Everyone appreciates perks, but companies counting on foosball tables and beer on tap to draw their youngest employees into the office may be disappointed in the results. Gen Z sees the workplace as a continuation of college, but “fun” is not the goal —community is.TAKE ACTION Help Gen Zers build community and their career. Give your youngest employees quiet, library-like spaces and exposure to different methods of thinking and problem solving. Consider offering hackathons or organizing cross-functional teams that give Gen Zers the opportunity to pitch new ideas to the organization while strengthening their coworker friendships.WHAT DOES GEN Z WANT?GEN Z & CAREER GROWTH“a workplace that facilitates career advancement” is the most important feature in a workplace“exposure to different methods of thinking” is the top benefit of being in the officeWHAT MOTIVATES MILLENNIALS TO BE IN THE OFFICE?TAKE ACTION Look to Millennials to be your leaders in creating momentum around time in the office.Eager for opportunities to advance their careers, Millennials will be your best partners, encouraging attendance at events and proactively interacting with employees across the company.Create learning opportunities targeted at Millennials. Millenials are likely to be mid-senior or senior employees with leadership aspirations, focused on growing leadership skills, including managing teams, influencing organizations and strategic planning.KEY FINDING KEY FINDING 0 1 MORE RECOGNITION FOR MY CONTRIBUTIONS+23%OBSERVING WORK ETHIC OF OTHERS+63%+63%+67%+52%+75%+44%+68%+59%GEN ZMILLENNIALSGEN XBABY BOOMERS 38%58%28%13%EXPOSURE TO DIFFERENT METHODS OF THINKINGINTERNAL NETWORKING FOR CAREER ADVANCEMENTGREATER CONNECTION WITH COMPANY CULTUREMEETING NEW PEOPLE ACROSS COMPANYGREATER INSIGHT INTO WHAT’S HAPPENING ACROSS THE BUSINESSSTRENGTHENING SOCIAL TIES WITH COWORKERS 59%want shared quiet spaces 58%want to see work friendsGen Z craves shared quiet spaces, similar to a college library. They are the least likely of all generations to stay at a company for a fun and engaging environment. But they are also the only generation to name “colleagues who are also close friends” as a key factor motivating them to come to the office. Like their Millennial counterparts, Gen Z is also focused on career advancement opportunities in the workplace.ELEVATE MAGAZINE34 35
GEN Z MILLENNIALS GEN X BABY BOOMERSTAKE ACTION Design a workplace where everyone can maximize their productivity.Successful interior office design will include a range of spaces for workday optionality, notably shared quiet spaces for Gen Z, collaboration zones for Millennials and plenty of private offices, which continue to be in high demand for employees aged 30+. Finally, consider how office design can bring together diverse groups of employees who might otherwise not interact. More than half of all respondents across generations (53%) cite meeting new people across the company as a key benefit of being in the office.say once they’re hired, office features are something that can keep them at a company83%72%ON-SITE FITNESS CENTERPRIVATE PLACE FOR PHONE CALLSSHARED QUIET SPACESPRIVATE OFFICESDifferent generations need different office features to be productiveWhat environments make each generation feel productive? Gen Z strongly prefers shared quiet spaces to private offices. Baby Boomers, Gen X and Millennials all say the opposite: They’re most productive in private offices. Gen X has the strongest preference gap with 56% of these respondents saying they’re productive in a private office versus just 26% in a shared quiet space. Millennials are the most flexible: Private offices top their productivity wish list, but collaboration zones aren’t far behind. KEY FINDING The effect is most notable for professionals under 40: 86% require on-site amenities to accept a job compared with 62% of professionals over 40.TAKE ACTIONMaximize amenity benefits. When prospective employees imagine daily life at your company, on-site amenities are an important part of the picture. Where will they go for coffee or lunch? How will they fit in their daily workout? Will they be stuck inside all day or be able to get fresh air? Offer prospective employees tours of your workplace given by future colleagues. This helps them better envision their workday.Workplace Events: Who Wants What?Even though 97% of professionals are interested in attending work events, preferences for timing and type run the gamut. Employees are nearly evenly split as to whether they prefer events during office hours (49%) versus after hours (45%), although generational preferences exist. Millennials are most excited by happy hour events or group retreats that help them get to know their team better. Baby Boomers prefer to meet people from across the company they don’t normally interact with but strongly dislike after-hours activities or happy hour events. Gen Xers strongly prefer company-wide food events during the workday while Gen Zers prefer after-work activities. With a variety of events during and after work hours, your company can offer something that appeals to everyone and boosts engagement across the board.PROFESSIONALS SEEKING INOFFICE AMENITIES 86%UNDER 40 62%OVER 40OutdoorworkspacesOn-site dining and coffee shopsBar area for socializingFitness centersOutdoorrecreationKEY FINDING WHICH OFFICE FEATURES MAKE YOU MORE PRODUCTIVE?Percentage of respondents who “agree”Amenities could be a job deal-breaker and retention charmerEven for employees who don’t plan to be in the office full time, the workplace plays a key role in their decision to accept a job offer or continue with their current company. Nearly 3 in 4 Southern California office professionals (72%) say they need a company to have in-office amenities like fitness centers, dining options or outdoor spaces if they are going to accept a position there. Once they’re hired, 83% say office features are something that can keep them at a company.say they need a company to have in-office amenitiesELEVATE MAGAZINE36 37
GEN Z MILLENNIALS GEN X BABY BOOMERSTAKE ACTION Design a workplace where everyone can maximize their productivity.Successful interior office design will include a range of spaces for workday optionality, notably shared quiet spaces for Gen Z, collaboration zones for Millennials and plenty of private offices, which continue to be in high demand for employees aged 30+. Finally, consider how office design can bring together diverse groups of employees who might otherwise not interact. More than half of all respondents across generations (53%) cite meeting new people across the company as a key benefit of being in the office.say once they’re hired, office features are something that can keep them at a company83%72%ON-SITE FITNESS CENTERPRIVATE PLACE FOR PHONE CALLSSHARED QUIET SPACESPRIVATE OFFICESDifferent generations need different office features to be productiveWhat environments make each generation feel productive? Gen Z strongly prefers shared quiet spaces to private offices. Baby Boomers, Gen X and Millennials all say the opposite: They’re most productive in private offices. Gen X has the strongest preference gap with 56% of these respondents saying they’re productive in a private office versus just 26% in a shared quiet space. Millennials are the most flexible: Private offices top their productivity wish list, but collaboration zones aren’t far behind. KEY FINDING The effect is most notable for professionals under 40: 86% require on-site amenities to accept a job compared with 62% of professionals over 40.TAKE ACTIONMaximize amenity benefits. When prospective employees imagine daily life at your company, on-site amenities are an important part of the picture. Where will they go for coffee or lunch? How will they fit in their daily workout? Will they be stuck inside all day or be able to get fresh air? Offer prospective employees tours of your workplace given by future colleagues. This helps them better envision their workday.Workplace Events: Who Wants What?Even though 97% of professionals are interested in attending work events, preferences for timing and type run the gamut. Employees are nearly evenly split as to whether they prefer events during office hours (49%) versus after hours (45%), although generational preferences exist. Millennials are most excited by happy hour events or group retreats that help them get to know their team better. Baby Boomers prefer to meet people from across the company they don’t normally interact with but strongly dislike after-hours activities or happy hour events. Gen Xers strongly prefer company-wide food events during the workday while Gen Zers prefer after-work activities. With a variety of events during and after work hours, your company can offer something that appeals to everyone and boosts engagement across the board.PROFESSIONALS SEEKING INOFFICE AMENITIES 86%UNDER 40 62%OVER 40OutdoorworkspacesOn-site dining and coffee shopsBar area for socializingFitness centersOutdoorrecreationKEY FINDING WHICH OFFICE FEATURES MAKE YOU MORE PRODUCTIVE?Percentage of respondents who “agree”Amenities could be a job deal-breaker and retention charmerEven for employees who don’t plan to be in the office full time, the workplace plays a key role in their decision to accept a job offer or continue with their current company. Nearly 3 in 4 Southern California office professionals (72%) say they need a company to have in-office amenities like fitness centers, dining options or outdoor spaces if they are going to accept a position there. Once they’re hired, 83% say office features are something that can keep them at a company.say they need a company to have in-office amenitiesELEVATE MAGAZINE36 37
// JAMBOREE CENTER- IRVINE, CATHE NEXT GENERATION of office design brings a residential aesthetic into the office, creating an inviting space for employees accustomed to working in a relaxed environment. But this interpretation of residential design is even better than home, merging form with function.Above:// 300 NORTH LASALLE - CHICAGO, ILInspired by the gracious indoor-outdoor flow of grand residential estates, 300 North LaSalle allows for seamless movement between art-filled seating areas with wood-paneled walls and patios with elegantly manicured landscaping along Chicago’s famous Riverwalk.Left:// 2121 AVENUE OF THE STARS - LOS ANGELES, CAFrom an expansive multipurpose room to a pre-function space with soaring windows, luxurious furnishings and materials make the new meeting and event space of Los Angeles’s 2121 Avenue of Stars nearly indistinguishable from a luxe residence.Right: // JAMBOREE CENTER - IRVINE, CAArt, like this abstract painting complementing a plush seating area in the lobby of Jamboree Center, plays an essential role in infusing spaces with warmth. Our ambitious approach draws from local artists to inspire innovators, create unique spaces for connection, and beautify the workplace.WHAT’S NEXT: RESIDENTIAL-INSPIRED DESIGN AT WORK3938 ELEVATE MAGAZINE
// JAMBOREE CENTER- IRVINE, CATHE NEXT GENERATION of office design brings a residential aesthetic into the office, creating an inviting space for employees accustomed to working in a relaxed environment. But this interpretation of residential design is even better than home, merging form with function.Above:// 300 NORTH LASALLE - CHICAGO, ILInspired by the gracious indoor-outdoor flow of grand residential estates, 300 North LaSalle allows for seamless movement between art-filled seating areas with wood-paneled walls and patios with elegantly manicured landscaping along Chicago’s famous Riverwalk.Left:// 2121 AVENUE OF THE STARS - LOS ANGELES, CAFrom an expansive multipurpose room to a pre-function space with soaring windows, luxurious furnishings and materials make the new meeting and event space of Los Angeles’s 2121 Avenue of Stars nearly indistinguishable from a luxe residence.Right: // JAMBOREE CENTER - IRVINE, CAArt, like this abstract painting complementing a plush seating area in the lobby of Jamboree Center, plays an essential role in infusing spaces with warmth. Our ambitious approach draws from local artists to inspire innovators, create unique spaces for connection, and beautify the workplace.WHAT’S NEXT: RESIDENTIAL-INSPIRED DESIGN AT WORK3938 ELEVATE MAGAZINE
EXPERIENCE THE TRANSFORMATIONIRVINECOMPANYOFFICE.COM/SANTACLARAGATEWAYChange how your team innovates with reimagined outdoor workspaces for connection and the lifestyle amenities talent wants — backed by Irvine Company’s long-term ownership and financial stability.SANTA CLARA GATEWAY:everything innovators need to succeed Roger DeWames, Irvine Company Oce Division Executive Vice President, on thinking like an ethnographer and using the scientic method to drive success for customers.“We’re creating at a scale and level of quality that no other developer can replicate. We’re building with purpose , creating spaces that evolve over time. We’re building the backdrop to people’s lives.”HOW DO YOU DESIGN A WORKPLACE for tomorrow’s workforce? Start with data, not assumptions. Roger DeWames, division executive vice president, shares how Irvine Company is building smart spaces that work for companies today and tomorrow.What inspires you?Placemaking — creating something new that fits within a community’s existing fabric — is incredibly inspiring. We get to take a piece of raw land or an existing property, imagine new possibilities and bring this vision to life in a way that enhances lives and drives business success.How do you solve problems?My preferred framework for decision-making is the scientific method, starting with a hypothesis, then moving through experimentation, measurement and refinement. Each workplace presents opportunities to experiment and then refine through reinvestment. People don’t always use a space the way you imagine, so it’s important to create spaces that can adapt as needs evolve.What’s the most important consideration when developing a workplace community?To be a great developer, you need to think like an ethnographer. Design decisions should be based on careful study of human behavior and space evolution.What’s the single biggest element companies overlook in assessing the full value of a workplace?Some companies don’t consider a landlord’s long-term commitment and financial strength and how it will impact workplace quality over the life of their lease. We’re very proud of the stability, consistency and partnership Irvine Company offers its customers. What is one hypothesis you are exploring around the Future of Work?The last few years showed us that in-person connections continue to be a critical driver for innovation and business success. Now we’re exploring how our workplaces can best foster these connections, whether teams are together monthly, weekly or daily.40 ELEVATE MAGAZINE
EXPERIENCE THE TRANSFORMATIONIRVINECOMPANYOFFICE.COM/SANTACLARAGATEWAYChange how your team innovates with reimagined outdoor workspaces for connection and the lifestyle amenities talent wants — backed by Irvine Company’s long-term ownership and financial stability.SANTA CLARA GATEWAY:everything innovators need to succeed Roger DeWames, Irvine Company Oce Division Executive Vice President, on thinking like an ethnographer and using the scientic method to drive success for customers.“We’re creating at a scale and level of quality that no other developer can replicate. We’re building with purpose , creating spaces that evolve over time. We’re building the backdrop to people’s lives.”HOW DO YOU DESIGN A WORKPLACE for tomorrow’s workforce? Start with data, not assumptions. Roger DeWames, division executive vice president, shares how Irvine Company is building smart spaces that work for companies today and tomorrow.What inspires you?Placemaking — creating something new that fits within a community’s existing fabric — is incredibly inspiring. We get to take a piece of raw land or an existing property, imagine new possibilities and bring this vision to life in a way that enhances lives and drives business success.How do you solve problems?My preferred framework for decision-making is the scientific method, starting with a hypothesis, then moving through experimentation, measurement and refinement. Each workplace presents opportunities to experiment and then refine through reinvestment. People don’t always use a space the way you imagine, so it’s important to create spaces that can adapt as needs evolve.What’s the most important consideration when developing a workplace community?To be a great developer, you need to think like an ethnographer. Design decisions should be based on careful study of human behavior and space evolution.What’s the single biggest element companies overlook in assessing the full value of a workplace?Some companies don’t consider a landlord’s long-term commitment and financial strength and how it will impact workplace quality over the life of their lease. We’re very proud of the stability, consistency and partnership Irvine Company offers its customers. What is one hypothesis you are exploring around the Future of Work?The last few years showed us that in-person connections continue to be a critical driver for innovation and business success. Now we’re exploring how our workplaces can best foster these connections, whether teams are together monthly, weekly or daily.40 ELEVATE MAGAZINE
42A LEGACY OF OPEN SPACE PRESERVATION The Irvine Ranch is the largest urban open space network in the United States.CREATING THRIVING COMMUNITIES for generationsMore than 18 million people choose to live, work, shop, stay and play in Irvine Company’s 129 million SF real estate portfolio. Decades of thoughtl planning and stewardship ensure we deliver exceptional placemaking and customer experiences — all backed by our commitment to long-term ownership and industry-leading financial stability.By bringing together resort-style living, exciting entertainment and dining, sought-after retail, engaging workplaces, and expansive open space preservation, we’re creating thriving communities for generations. ELEVATE EVERYDAY LIFE Our retail centers offer an always-evolving blend of shopping, dining and entertainment.HAVE IT ALL AT HOME Our 125+ apartment communities offer spacious living, exceptional care and wellness-driven design.EXCEPTIONAL MASTER PLANNING Irvine Company developed the all-new City of Irvine with public schools ranked among the best in California. 4342 ELEVATE MAGAZINE
42A LEGACY OF OPEN SPACE PRESERVATION The Irvine Ranch is the largest urban open space network in the United States.CREATING THRIVING COMMUNITIES for generationsMore than 18 million people choose to live, work, shop, stay and play in Irvine Company’s 129 million SF real estate portfolio. Decades of thoughtl planning and stewardship ensure we deliver exceptional placemaking and customer experiences — all backed by our commitment to long-term ownership and industry-leading financial stability.By bringing together resort-style living, exciting entertainment and dining, sought-after retail, engaging workplaces, and expansive open space preservation, we’re creating thriving communities for generations. ELEVATE EVERYDAY LIFE Our retail centers offer an always-evolving blend of shopping, dining and entertainment.HAVE IT ALL AT HOME Our 125+ apartment communities offer spacious living, exceptional care and wellness-driven design.EXCEPTIONAL MASTER PLANNING Irvine Company developed the all-new City of Irvine with public schools ranked among the best in California. 4342 ELEVATE MAGAZINE
Elevate Magazine › Issue 3 | Fall 2023