The Gym Is Dead. Long Live Flexible Space.
Forget one-size-fits-all amenity spaces—flexible wellness and shared spaces are reshaping the modern office.
I consider myself a gym rat.
I’m a five-time marathon runner, but I did most of my training on the treadmill. (What can I say? I like watching TV and having easy access to a bathroom.) I recently got into strength training, and I like experimenting with free weights and the different machines. And I try to work out at least five days a week.
I tend to do all my workouts after the business day is over. It’s the only time I can find to work up a sweat. (I can’t wake up early, no matter how hard I try.) That said, if my company offered a gym as an amenity, I wouldn’t use it. Would it free up some of my evening if I was able to work out during the day? Of course. But, and I say this with all due respect to my coworkers, it would be my absolute nightmare. Imagine trying to garner respect during a meeting when your colleagues have seen you sweat and turn various shades of purple while wearing a ratty t-shirt from 20 years ago, struggling to lift a 10-pound weight. And what about the locker room? I’m shuddering at the thought.
But the ability to book a session with a personal trainer in a private space? Now that’s something I could get on board with.
And it’s not just me! Flex amenity space is becoming more and more popular in office buildings, allowing landlords to change up the space for multiple uses. For example, instead of a large gym, owners can create smaller, customizable spaces.
“Gyms don’t get used enough if they’re large open spaces limited to tenants,” Jamie Feuerborn of Savills told reporter Michele Lerner for “The Best Office Amenity? Versatility.” “A better draw would be a Life Fitness franchise or Pilates studio, and smaller private wellness spaces where people can book individual services.”
Amenities that your office tenants will actually use, with the ability to change them out when they’re out of style? Now that could really work out!
What else are developers doing to incorporate flex space into their office buildings? Find out in our issue!
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