How Gen Z is Hyping the Office One Desk at a Time

GEN Z IS IN THE HOUSE

As we approach 2030, Gen Z is projected to make up 30% of the workforce, bringing fresh perspectives and high expectations about the workplace. While some companies are reducing square footage and minimizing individual workstations, Gen Z—set to surpass Boomers in the workforce by year-end—strongly prefers coming into the office.

• Currently, 92% of Gen Z who are in the workforce are working in-office.
• Only 11% of Gen Z prefer working fully remotely, compared to 34% of other generations.

Despite the pandemic hitting just as they entered the workforce, their preference for authenticity and in-person interactions remains unchanged. This is evident from their strong preference for face-to-face work; For them, the office isn’t just a place to work—it’s a space to form real connections, seek meaningful feedback, and engage in authentic social interactions. 

A DESK OF THEIR OWN

For this generation, it’s not just about having a desk but a place to truly call their own. Hot desking? More like hot mess. The hassle of hunting for a seat and dealing with someone else’s leftovers? No thanks. Gen Z wants their own desk—a cozy spot to personalize and express their creativity. They’re turning the cubicle into a canvas for self-expression with vibrant colors, quirky mementos, and motivational quotes. The days of drab cubicles and generic decor are gone. Now, workstations are personalized spaces reflecting individual personalities. Their enthusiasm for showcasing their spaces is evident, with ‘Office Job Cubicle Tours’ amassing over 4.3 million views on TikTok.

But it’s not just about eye-catching decor; it’s about creating a homey workspace. When employees can add their personal touch—funky plants, favorite art, or even a plush toy—they’re not just decorating but building a sanctuary where they can thrive.

FACE TIME IRL

Beyond just making it feel like their own, Gen Z is drawn to the office because they value in-person interactions. Growing up with phones glued to their hands, they rely on personal devices for entertainment but crave real, face-to-face feedback and collaboration. This generation is setting the tone for our relationship with technology and how it should facilitate, not replace, human interaction. They view these tools as enablers of a richer, more engaging workday. Smart desks adjust to their needs and preferences, creating a more comfortable and efficient workspace. Lunch delivery apps simplify their day, giving them more time to connect with colleagues. Seamless tech integrations ensure that their work processes are smooth and efficient so that they can focus more on meaningful interactions and less on tech glitches.

Ultimately, while technology helps streamline work and improve convenience, it’s the opportunity to engage with others, collaborate directly, and build relationships that make the office environment so appealing to Gen Z. They’re not looking for a high-tech fortress of solitude; they’re seeking a dynamic, interactive space where they can grow professionally and personally through real, human connections.

So, what’s the takeaway?

Whether you call it ‘dopamine décor’, ‘yassifying’, or ‘curation of eye space,’ we’ve all felt the impact of a personalized workspace and value it as an essential tool for fostering productivity and well-being. The freedom to put our own stamp on our space can enhance focus, boost mood, and increase job satisfaction. Embracing an office that provides the tools for and nourishes a culture around personalization is the road to creating a supportive, engaging, and productive environment for all employees. The office isn’t dead—it’s evolving, thanks to Gen Z’s innovative approach to personalization and interaction.