JLL highlights design as a strategic lever for future-proofing real estate

Continual uncertainty, fast-paced technological advances, evolving workplace models and dynamic consumer habits are reshaping the real estate landscape on a global scale.

JLL’s 2026 Design Perspectives Report provides critical insights for corporate real estate leaders, investors and facilities managers, highlighting design as a core driver for long-term asset value and business outcomes.

The report sets out four design perspectives shaping real estate in 2026 and beyond:

1. The concept of hardwired flexibility is at the forefront. Design strategies are shifting from temporary flexibility measures to long-term adaptability, enabled by plug-and-play infrastructure and modular building systems. This approach allows all types of CRE assets to adjust rapidly to changes in technology and workplace requirements, supporting “elastic portfolio” models across sectors that prioritise resilience and readiness for future uncertainty.
2. As artificial intelligence transforms operational processes and the nature of work, there is an increasing focus on design elements that enhance the value of human connection. The report points to a strong trend toward tactile design – such as natural materials and biophilic elements – that boost creativity, community well-being and sensory engagement. Neuro-design principles are being leveraged to create high-performance environments that support cognitive health and belonging.
3. Influenced by growing personalisation across entertainment, retail and leisure services, people now expect the places where they live, work and play to provide unique experiences, bespoke events and concierge-style offerings. AI, digital experiences and generational expectations are shifting expectations for personalisation of experience in buildings and places. Successful projects will combine technology-assisted bespoke experiences with welcoming and inclusive environments to create memorable touchpoints and an enhanced sense of personalization in a building.
4. Finally, organisations are shifting their focus from underutilised “in-between spaces” to vibrant “anchor spaces”. These transformed areas intentionally foster social interaction, collaboration and a sense of community. By activating previously overlooked zones within buildings and throughout lifestyle districts, companies improve space utilisation, reinforce organisational culture and increase the long-term value and appeal of their real estate assets.

Nicasio Gutiérrez, Project and Development Services Global Head of Design at JLL said: “Organisations are investing in spaces that elevate experience, productivity and talent attraction, cementing real estate as an engine for business value. The interplay of adaptability, technology and human-centric design has become essential as businesses look to future-proof their portfolios in a world marked by volatility and rapid change.”

Ruth Hynes, Global Research Lead, Project and Development services at JLL added: “Design is now a strategic response to continual disruption. Our data shows that flexible design, technology-enabled spaces and intelligent personalization strategies directly enhance asset resilience, wellness and sustainability outcomes. Balancing technology enabled spaces with human-centric design is a key challenge and opportunity as we head into 2026.”

Key findings from the report include:

• 93 per cent of investors agree that technology-enabled properties deliver stronger returns, yet static definitions of tech-enabled space are evolving too rapidly, requiring buildings to be conceived as adaptive platforms.
• 71 per cent of global respondents value workplaces designed with greenery and natural materials; 61 per cent want digital detox spaces, highlighting the importance of sensory and human-centric environments.
• 65 per cent of people worldwide seek “unique and distinct experiences,” while 68 per cent prefer locally produced products – demonstrating a strong link between personalisation, community and sustainability.
• Lifestyle districts and anchor spaces generate increased rental values (up to 32 per cent in the US), with younger employees prioritising vibrant areas for collaboration and socialising.

Early engagement with technical specialists and local stakeholders is crucial to assess emerging trends and inform design requirements for long-term adaptability, says JLL, adding that leveraging automation and AI for core efficiencies while investing in bespoke, human-centric space transformation will maximise asset value for owners and occupiers. JLL concludes by saying savvy organisations will treat completed projects as “testbeds” for innovation, embedding lessons learned into future portfolio strategy.

To read JLL’s 2026 Design Perspectives Report click here.