Corporate real‑estate advisors report a rising trend: firms across America are increasing their office footprint as artificial intelligence reshapes how teams work. The shift reflects a view that innovation and collaboration are enhanced when employees gather in person.
In a recent interview with Newmark Group, President of Leasing Liz Hart noted that about 70 % of prospective tenants touring office space are looking for the same or larger square footage than before. She added that tech companies — nearly 60 % of tenants in the sector — are leading the expansion, countering the notion that remote work will dominate forever.
Executives such as Jamie Dimon of JPMorgan Chase emphasize the value of spontaneous interactions and “hallway collisions” in driving ideas, learning, and mentorship, which they argue cannot be fully replicated in virtual settings. Hart pointed out that AI‑driven firms are leasing large blocks of space (some exceeding 100,000 sq ft) and expanding into unexpected cities as they retrain workers in new skills tied to AI.
This shift is also influencing office design and workplace strategy. Companies are reimagining office layouts to support cross-functional collaboration, dedicated training areas for AI upskilling, and flexible spaces that accommodate hybrid schedules. Rather than reverting to pre-pandemic models, many firms are blending traditional setups with modern, adaptive work environments.
The resurgence in office leasing suggests that in-person collaboration remains a strategic priority for many businesses, particularly as they adapt to emerging technologies like artificial intelligence. Companies appear to be reassessing the long-term viability of remote work, especially where innovation, mentorship, and team cohesion are concerned. As organizations reconfigure their operations, physical office space is once again being viewed as essential to corporate growth and productivity. This shift may mark a lasting evolution in how businesses balance flexibility with the demands of a rapidly changing economy.
