As organisations continue to navigate changing expectations around work, flexibility and wellbeing, one question continues to surface: what makes people genuinely want to come into the workplace?
This question framed the latest Workplace Unplugged webinar, featuring Kay Sargent, Director of Thought Leadership at HOK, and Louise Sheppard, UK Head of Corporate Real Estate & Workplace Services at Zurich Insurance. The session explored how a more human-centric approach to workplace design and leadership is reshaping the role of the workplace itself, moving it from a place of obligation to one of purpose, connection and belonging.
Throughout the conversation, Kay and Louise examined the current state of the workplace and how it continues to evolve in response to post-pandemic shifts, changing employee expectations and wider societal pressures. Rather than focusing solely on space, the discussion looked at the workplace as an experience shaped by culture, leadership, trust and inclusion.
Key areas of focus included:
What defines a human-centric workplace and why it matters now more than ever
Rethinking return-to-office conversations through experience, inclusion and trust
How culture, wellbeing and diverse lived experiences influence how people engage with the workplace
Designing environments that support neurodiversity, menopause, sensory needs and different cultural backgrounds
The role of social value and organisational purpose in driving engagement and connection
How technology and AI are influencing how, when and where work happens
Emerging themes and challenges workplace leaders should be considering as they plan for the future
Rather than prescribing a single model, the session reinforced the idea that successful workplaces are those that respond to the real needs of people, not assumptions and that leadership behaviour is just as critical as physical design.
To hear the full discussion and explore these themes in more depth, the webinar is now available to watch on demand.
This session is part of our ongoing Workplace Unplugged webinar series, bringing together industry leaders to discuss the realities shaping work, culture and employee experience.
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Many of the themes discussed will be explored further at The Workplace Event 2026, returning to the NEC from 28–30 April 2026. The event brings together workplace, FM, people and culture leaders to share ideas, best practice and innovation shaping the future of work.
👉 Register free for The Workplace Event 2026
The session also links closely with our Workplace Top 50 programme, recognising individuals who are driving meaningful impact across workplace, culture and employee experience. Nominations for the 2026 edition are now open.
👉 Nominate for Workplace Top 50
You can also explore Inside the Workplace, our new initiative showcasing real-world workplace strategies, projects and innovations making a tangible difference.