This lecture argues that many contemporary workplaces are stuck in a rut that social scientists describe as “languishing.” This talk breaks down the characteristics of languishing and describes how to elevate employee experiences in the direction of flourishing. Then takes a deep dive into metrics that create a basis for a data-driven approach to creating high-performance working environments.

As organisations reimagine the workplace in a post-pandemic world, we use novel methodologies to explore how the physical environment influences creativity, engagement, and performance. Our latest research examines how workspace design, creative styles, and environmental factors affect employee outcomes. In a global multi-national organisation, we analyse how different spaces align with task demands to enhance creativity and performance. Discover evidence-based strategies to design workspaces that foster innovation, well-being, and the future of work.

Humans are hardwired to form connective bonds which both anchor us and motivate needs for solitude and individualism. Translated to the workplace, there is an inherent creative power in being together, and apart, but what are we failing to learn from high performance environments in the pursuit of occupancy? Showcasing research from Australian organisations and knowledge workers this presentation proposes a temporal framework grounded in space-time methodology and person-environment fit to inform responsive, sustainable, and meaningful design of future workplace environments.

Biophilia has long been a buzzword—but now, Workplace Topophilia is taking the spotlight. While it sounds similar, topophilia refers to our emotional connection to place. As our world becomes more digital, our spatial awareness is declining—shaping how we experience, navigate, and perform in the workplace. This interactive keynote explores how digital-physical tensions affect cognition and behaviour, and offers strategies to reconnect with space in the modern workplace.

What does workplace strategy look like from the inside? In this panel, senior leaders share how their organisations are rethinking the role of place—from reshaping employee expectations to balancing culture, performance, and flexibility. Expect candid insights into what’s working, what’s changing, and where they see the biggest challenges ahead. With perspectives from across industries, this session offers a grounded view of how end users are navigating hybrid models, digital transformation, and the human side of the workplace.

This panel explores how we can design workplaces that meet the evolving expectations of future generations. Bringing together leaders in design, strategy, and workplace experience, we’ll examine what it means to create inclusive, sustainable, and purpose-driven environments. From engaging Gen Z to embedding flexibility, tech, and collaboration at the core of the workplace, panellists will share practical insights and bold ideas. As work continues to shift, this session offers a forward-thinking lens on how to create spaces that not only serve today but inspire and empower generations to come.

Perpetual and Gray Puksand co-created a visionary new ‘teaming’ workplace in Sydney, designed to boost teamwork, ideation, and space utilisation—and early data shows it's working. Focused on teams over individuals, the concept was tested through a pilot space to gather feedback and refine functionality. The final multi-floor fitout features in-demand teaming pods and higher occupancy, despite a reduced NLA. With no change to the building, it offers a unique, controlled environment to test this bold new work model.

BDO Sydney has recently moved into their new, purpose-designed space at Parkline Place. This session presents a compelling case study of how a great workspace can serve as the starting point—not the solution. Learn how BDO engaged its people to be ready for the move, created an environment that attracts rather than compels office presence, and built a flexible value proposition that allows individuals, teams, and offices to intentionally choose their own adventure—aligning personal preferences with organisational goals.

We conclude with a session designed to summarise the day’s vibrant exchange of ideas, insights, and experiences, over drinks we give delegates the invitation to ask commune with others sharing their ideas and inspiration from the day.

Join Philip for a deep dive into international workplace innovation, featuring ground-breaking examples from leading global organisations that have created innovative new HQs, like Booking.com in Amsterdam and Lego in Billund, as well as emerging technologies and trends transforming work.

In this session, Brian Elliott, a leading expert on the Future of Work, will explore recent research on the benefits and challenges of hybrid work. He'll present case studies from leading organisations to demonstrate how to create successful hybrid work programs that enhance utilization & employee engagement. Highlighting the shift from "facilities" to "facilitation" and the growing importance of collaboration between Workplace, People, and Tech leadership. Attendees will gain insights into the ROI of investing in collaborative spaces and strategies for aligning Workplace, People & Tec

Designed to align with Medibank’s commitment to fostering health and wellbeing, hand in hand with authentic connection to Country, Medibank reinvented its workplace and established a bold new way of working. This presentation will outline how genuine consultation with Medibank employees resulted in “layer upon layer upon layer” of human-centric design decisions integrated into a responsive, paradigm-shifting workplace.

Architecture Plus Information (A+I) will present Le Truc, a cutting-edge workplace innovation within Publicis' New York flagship building. Designed as a 'Clubhouse for Creativity,' Le Truc challenges traditional office structures by prioritizing the creative process. The space features vibrant, diverse areas for ideation, each with unique colors, lighting, and functionality. This innovative design enhances creative agency and fosters a strong sense of community, creating a dynamic environment where creativity flourishes.