India's New Office Culture: A Shift for Corporate Real Estate

While global organisations are struggling to get employees back into office or adapting to a hybrid system, India is standing out among the top ‘office advocates’. In India, 90% organisations require employees to be present in the office for at least three days of the workweek, while the global average stands at 85%. This trend is driving occupancy rates in office hubs through commercial projects in Noida, Gurgaon, etc.

This trend is also expected to strengthen, with 54% of Indian organisations anticipating an increase in in-office work days by 2030. For a new project launch in Gurgaon or other major corporate hubs, these numbers signify significant growth in occupancy and India’s commitment to office-based work.

With greater focus on sustainability and technology, corporate real estate is continuously improving its offerings to cater to the demands of organisations.

Strategic Shift in Workplace Design

Corporatereal estate in India is witnessing a shift in workplace requirements as corporate objectives are changing. Top corporate real estate developers projected increased spending on sustainability, and noted that 1 in every 2 organisations is now willing to pay a premium for occupying only green-certified spaces and choosing climate-resilient buildings. As ESG goals increase focus on environmental-friendly operations, organisations are gravitating towards commercial projects in Noida and similar cities that align with their intentions.

In urban areas, while employment opportunities are ample, the fast-paced life is affecting employees’ well-being and productivity. To combat the resulting ‘workplace fatigue’, employers are looking for office spaces that rejuvenate and relax workers. This is popularising green buildings that incorporate biophilia into the design.

Technology For Workplace Management

On top of sustainable development, the rapid integration of AI in workforce operations is changing the way businesses invest in smart technology. This demand for technological integration is making corporate real estate pivotal in balancing flexibility, productivity, and growth. To cater to this need, whether it’s a new project launch in Gurgaon or Noida, technology is being utilised to create an efficient workplace by enhancing the amenities and facilities.

While technology is known to increase efficiency in the workplace, businesses are also looking for tech-integration that enhances employee experience and improves retention rates. As seen in commercial projects in Noida, offices are being transformed into spaces that elevate employees’ physical, mental, and emotional well-being with the help of technology.

In conclusion, Indian organisations are more inclined towards in-office workdays than their global counterparts, with 90% spending 3+ days in the office. While the rest of the world shifts to a hybrid or completely remote work module, this trend amongst Indian organisations is reshaping the country’s corporate real estate and office spaces. From commercial projects in Noida to new project launch in Gurgaon, sustainable and tech-enhanced workplaces are being favoured by businesses.

As Indian workplaces continue to evolve, the need for a flexible, strategic approach to workplace planning is necessary. The demand right now is for a balance between the enduring importance of physical office spaces with the growing need for technology-enabled, sustainable, and employee-centric environments. While navigating the future of work, corporate real estate is also expecting increased spending on real estate technology by 2030.