Dear Desk Diary

Could this be the future of how we rent workspace? With Tom Wordie

Unlock the secrets of transforming underutilised spaces into thriving work environments with our special guest, Tom, co-founder of NOHQ. Learn how Tom and Sanj Mahal started with &Co, helping freelancers find remote workspaces in hospitality venues, and shifted gears due to the pandemic to create NOHQ, a flexible, Airbnb-like model for office spaces. Discover the meticulous curation process for these spaces and how valuable data from Wi-Fi infrastructure is revolutionizing hospitality operations. Ever wondered how you can maximize the potential of your empty office spaces? Tom reveals the concept of mini co-working spaces and how they can compete with traditional setups, especially in cities with high vacancy rates like London. We explore practical examples and potential earnings for landlords, offering insights into customizable occupancy agreements that benefit both landlords and tenants. You'll be surprised at how flexible terms can yield significant revenue streams. Get the inside scoop on the nuts and bolts of pricing, the matchmaking process for clients and spaces, and the landlord-tenant dynamics. Tom breaks down the commission-based model that ensures risk-free hosting and the benefits of co-working environments, such as fostering collaboration and networking. Tune in to find out how this innovative approach is meeting the demands of modern workforces and creating new opportunities for both startups and multinational corporations. Join us for this enlightening discussion on Dear Desk Diary!

Futureproofing Properties with Sustainability with Greg Davison

Are you ready to transform your understanding of sustainable real estate? In this episode of Dear Desk Diary, we sit down with Greg Davison, the visionary founding partner of Hollen+. Greg opens up about his journey from private equity to a mission-driven focus on sustainability, motivated by the birth of his first child. He shares invaluable insights into the importance of Energy Performance Certificates (EPC) and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria, offering practical advice on how to enhance energy efficiency in buildings while boosting property value and marketing potential. Discover the latest trends in building sustainability as we unpack the complexities of building accreditations and the growing emphasis on occupant wellness and air quality in a post-COVID world. Greg explains how higher EPC ratings can significantly increase rental and capital values, referencing a pivotal JLL report. He encourages landlords to align office spaces with corporate net-zero goals, stressing the importance of preparing for future regulations like EPCB by 2030. We also delve into the trend of tenants demanding environmentally sound and flexible office spaces to meet their corporate sustainability agendas. Finally, we explore the dynamic post-COVID landscape of sustainable commuting and office spaces, emphasizing the need for facilities that encourage emission-free travel and enhance employee wellness. From flexible working arrangements to the forward-thinking concept of 15-minute cities, we cover various aspects of creating a wellness-focused work environment. Greg also demystifies ESG accreditations such as BREEAM and Neighbours, discussing their relevance for different building projects. We wrap up with a look at the potential of AI in real estate, highlighting early innovations in energy efficiency monitoring and ESG reporting, and balancing its promise with the complexities of job security. Join us for an episode packed with actionable insights and forward-thinking strategies!

Office Space Evolution: Insights from Tasha Giddings

Join us for a fascinating conversation with Tasha Giddings [https://www.linkedin.com/in/tasha-giddings-45a962b0/], Associate Director at Kontor [https://www.kontor.com/], who has made a career out of transforming office environments. Tasha’s journey from a university dissertation on creative workspaces to her current role offers invaluable insights into how different office types—serviced, managed, and leased—can dramatically impact employee wellbeing. You'll walk away with a deeper understanding of how a well-designed office can be a game-changer for your team. Curious about the future of office spaces in a post-COVID world? We explore the shift from traditional long-term leases to more flexible options that cater to the dynamic needs of growing businesses. Tasha delves into the benefits of modern office arrangements, from renting a desk for a day to opting for a hybrid managed office model that marries the best of both worlds.  Wondering about the finer details of choosing the right office space? We break down the critical considerations—deposit sizes, commitment lengths, speed of occupancy, and risk tolerance—so you can navigate your options with confidence.

Unleashing the Power of Company Culture with Janine Jacobs

Discover the transformative power of company culture with our special guest, Janine Jacobs, from Happy HQ. Janine shares her fascinating journey from communications and marketing to becoming a leading culture consultant, and we promise you'll gain invaluable insights into creating a people-first workplace. Understand the critical reasons employees leave their jobs and learn how a positive culture can enhance employee retention, talent attraction, productivity, and revenue. We'll walk you through the practical steps to bring core company values to life in your organisation. From feedback mechanisms to onboarding processes, Janine provides a roadmap for embedding values like "communicate with courage" into daily business practices. Hear inspiring success stories that reveal how values-based recognition and authentic integration of company values can foster an inclusive and supportive work environment. Leadership takes center stage as we delve into the importance of active listening, transparency, and actionable feedback. Janine introduces proactive strategies like "stay interviews" to retain employees and maintain a positive workplace culture, especially in remote settings. We also share tips on welcoming newcomers, celebrating achievements, and ensuring your company values are genuinely lived out to avoid the pitfalls of "culture washing." Join us for an enriching conversation that will help you cultivate a cohesive and empowered team.

How to Transform Your Space Using Art

Imagine transforming your workspace into a vibrant canvas that not only inspires creativity but also fosters productivity and reflects the essence of your brand. That's exactly what we unpack on Dear Desk Diary with Katie Henry from Art in Offices and Chhaya, Head of Design from SToiCA , delving into the dynamic intersection of art and the corporate world. Through a lively discussion, we reveal how art is not just a decorative afterthought but a catalyst for enhancing the workplace environment, supporting artists, and reinforcing a company's identity. This episode peels back the layers on why the art in your office could be the silent partner you never knew you needed. We navigate through the colourful ways art can shape company culture, from original pieces that broadcast your avant-garde spirit to curated prints that exude unwavering professionalism. As we weave through the transformative effects of art on employee wellness and the subtle yet powerful ways it can demarcate different zones within your workspace, we share practical tips for integrating diverse forms of art into every corner of your office landscape. Tune in for an artful journey that promises to leave your workspace—and your mindset—forever changed.