The future of work, workplaces and smart buildings

This paper presents a discussion on how smart buildings and technologies currently and will continue to contribute to the future of work and workplaces. In the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, a hybrid way of working has emerged and physical office spaces are becoming more a space for collaboration, innovation and interactions, which can be facilitated by the use of smart technologies. An analysis of the 15 highest-scoring smart buildings through the Smart Building Certification process highlights key trends in the smartest buildings as they contribute to the future of work and a hybrid way of working: increased flexibility, emphasis on user experience including indoor environmental quality and safety, and an overall drive towards sustainability. The shift towards smarter buildings also offers an opportunity to study the impacts of smart technologies on key performance aspects of the buildings and the building occupants.