Not only does hybrid work encourage more sustainable practices, many of the buildings facilitating the movement are leading the way in green initiatives. Here, we take a look at some of the most innovative IWG workspaces across the world right now.
It has long been argued that hybrid work lessens our impact on the environment. And now, there’s more research than ever to back up the theory.
In our recent study with sustainability experts, Arup, it was found that an average worker’s carbon footprint can be reduced by as much as 70% by moving away from daily commutes and working locally some of the time. This applies to a growing number of people too, with nearly half of the workers polled (45%) now commuting at least three days a week less than pre-pandemic.
But hybrid work isn’t just bringing behavioural change that’s positive for the environment; it’s driving the development of more sustainable buildings too. One of our newest locations is Spaces Stortorvet 7 in the heart of Oslo, which is Breeam certified and offers a dedicated bicycle parking area – one of many ‘green’ features being incorporated into IWG centres around the world.
Less than a ten-minute walk away from Stortorvet lies another Spaces location with a raft of green credentials, and this kicks off our countdown of eye-catching, sustainability-oriented workspaces across the world.
Spaces Tullinløkka, Oslo, Norway
Scandi-chic business hub Spaces Tullinløkka is located right in the heart of Oslo, Norway, next door to the National Museum and Royal Castle and minutes from many of the city’s other cultural treasures. Made from 80% recycled materials, it reused parts – such as windows – from 25 refurbished or demolished Oslo buildings. Not only does it feature benches from an old swimming pool, but its reclaimed tiles saved an incredible 34,000kg of CO2 during its construction.
Regus One Welches, Barbados
One Welches is one of the most energy-efficient commercial buildings on the island of Barbados in the Caribbean. Its solar carport and electric vehicle charging infrastructure are the largest in Barbados, generating enough electricity to power a Nissan Leaf for more than two million kilometres of travel a year. What’s more, One Welches also features a super-efficient, low-waste air conditioning system, along with a sophisticated method for harvesting rainwater to use in outdoor irrigation.
Spaces House Modernes, Utrecht, Netherlands
Spaces House Modernes in Utrecht, Netherlands occupies a fantastic location between the city’s best-known street and the canal, and has a tranquil roof terrace reserved for users of the space. This brand new glass-façaded building lets in lots of light, but it’s the bike shed that sets it apart, leading the way in facilitating alternative transport. In a country renowned for its cycling infrastructure, Spaces House Modernes’ bike shed is one of the largest in the city, with 900 spaces and plentiful charging points for electric bikes.
Signature Hysan Place, Hong Kong
Signature Hysan Place is a striking tower in the heart of Hong Kong’s Causeway Bay commercial district. Famed for its green initiatives, it’s home to the Hysan Urban Farm, which occupies 8,000 square feet of rooftop space. As well as educating urban farmers on organic farming practices, it also invites local schools to visit, thereby playing an important part in inspiring the next generation to grow their own fruit and veg.
Spaces Tour & Taxis, Brussels, Belgium
The stunning glass and iron-frame Spaces Tour & Taxis building in Brussels, Belgium is part of a wider mixed-use development for living and working just north of the city centre. Running entirely on geothermal and solar power, the building is energy neutral, with gardens used to help to regulate the internal temperature. These are watered with collected rainwater. Originally built at the turn of the 20th century, the building has been given an eco-friendly refurbishment that’s earned it an Outstanding rating from BREEAM – setting a new standard for IWG spaces worldwide.
Businesses can learn more about our global offering – including sustainably designed workspaces – right here, while brokers can discover new opportunities here. If you’re a building owner or franchise investor keen to find out about a property partnership, here’s how you can develop a location.
