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SPOTLIGHT

What is the ‘third space’ and why are flex offices winning the battle for hybrid workers?

18th December, 2024

Concept design credit: Studio Multi

Hybrid work has changed everything, from how businesses operate to what people expect from their workplace. And while traditional office fit outs once held all the power, today’s hybrid workers are looking for something very different: a work environment that feels as welcoming as home and as functional as a high-performance office. 

This shift has given rise to the concept of the third space and it’s one of the main reasons flex offices are rapidly becoming the preferred choice for modern workers and employers alike.

In this article, we explore what the third space really means, why it matters and how flex office design & build is reshaping the future of work. 

What is the third space? 

The third space refers to a space that sits between home and the office. It blends the comfort, calm and autonomy people feel at home with the productivity, structure and collaboration opportunities of a modern office. 

A true third space is: 

  • Hospitality-driven, warm and inviting 
  • Flexible, with spaces that adapt to different working styles 
  • Experience-led, prioritising wellbeing, connection and purpose 
  • Tech-enabled, supporting seamless hybrid collaboration 

Instead of simply offering desks and meeting rooms, the idea behind the third space creates an environment where people want to work—not one they feel obliged to return to. 

Why hybrid workers prefer third space-style flex offices

The latest Spaces to Places report, Voice of the Customer, confirms a major shift: workplace experience now beats location, commute time and even cost. 71% of workers would increase office attendance if the workplace experience was exceptional. 

Here’s why third space flex offices are winning: 

1. They offer hospitality-level comfort 

Hybrid workers expect more than functional spaces. They want environments that feel energising, inspiring and human. This includes: 

  • Lounge-style breakout zones 
  • Quality food and beverage options 
  • Warm lighting and tactile finishes 
  • Biophilic design and calming material palettes 

Flex offices designed with hospitality in mind create an atmosphere people naturally gravitate towards. 

2. They support real flexibility 

Hybrid workers need different settings throughout the day: quiet focus areas, collaborative zones, private booths for calls and social spaces to decompress. 

Third spaces give them the freedom to move, adapt and work in ways that support their productivity and wellbeing. 

3. They strengthen community and interaction 

Humans need connection. Modern office interior design integrates: 

  • Event spaces 
  • Social hubs 
  • Community-led programming 
  • Shared lounges 

These environments foster belonging—a feeling remote work alone cannot provide. 

4. They are designed for performance 

Third spaces are designed and built to balance comfort with the infrastructure businesses rely on: 

  • High-performance tech 
  • Acoustic control 
  • Ergonomic furniture 
  • Smart lighting and ventilation 
  • Seamless digital connectivity 

This combination helps hybrid workers perform at their best. 

The role of design: How third spaces are brought to life 

An exceptional third space requires thoughtful, experience-led office fit out design, grounded in how people actually use the workspace. 

At DBSJ, our approach combines: 

  • Hospitality-influenced layouts designed around flow, wellbeing and comfort 

Every project begins with understanding the behaviours, motivations and daily needs of hybrid workers. Our expertise extends to creating exceptional luxury interiors that meet these demands. 

Why businesses are turning to flex offices 

Organisations that adopt third space flex offices benefit from: 

  • Higher attendance and engagement 
  • Better talent attraction and retention 
  • Stronger company culture 
  • Reduced real estate inefficiency 
  • Long-term workplace flexibility 

With 66% of employees willing to commit longer-term for exceptional workplace experiences, investing in office design & build isn’t optional—it’s essential. 

DBSJ: Designing the third space workplaces of the future 

From Derby to London, Leicester to Norwich, DBSJ is helping operators and businesses reshape their office fit outs into inspiring, high-performing third spaces where people want to be. 

As expert office fit out contractors, our blend of hospitality-led design, expert office fit out team and exceptional joinery ensures every workspace feels both functional and unforgettable. 

If you’re ready to start creating a modern office interior design where hybrid workers feel energised, connected and supported, we’d love to help.

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