Modus Workspace Turns 30!
This year, we celebrate a remarkable milestone—30 years of Modus. It’s interesting to reflect on the trends we’ve witnessed since we started the business in 1991.
Over three decades, we’ve seen numerous shifts in office design trends, technology, and the way we all work. It’s been an evolution from cubicles and cellular offices to open-plan layouts, and now, agile workspaces where flexibility is king.
Back in the early days, the biggest challenge for many businesses was transitioning from cellular working to open-plan offices. Fast-forward to today, and the narrative is entirely different. The pandemic fast-tracked the experiment of widespread remote working, giving companies and employees the chance to reconsider what the workplace means. However, this shift has opened up new challenges for businesses—especially those in professions like law and finance, where physical presence has always been tied to training and client interaction. The key question now is: How do we maintain culture, learning, and engagement in a hybrid world?
In the early 2000s, we witnessed the rapid rise of the out-of-town business park and then, just as quickly, its collapse during the financial crash. At that point, businesses faced the stark reality of “sweating the asset”, —leading to the densification of office spaces and the rise of flexible working models. By the time the credit crunch hit in 2007, the focus had shifted to activity-based working, and companies began to rethink their relationship with real estate. More than ever, businesses realised that spaces needed to be adaptable, creative, and energising.
As we enter a new phase—Workplace V4—we see the same guiding principles apply. It’s all about creating spaces where employees want to work, not just because they have to, but because it’s a place that inspires creativity and collaboration and reinforces company culture. Offices are the physical embodiment of brand and values, and they play a key role in connecting people to the purpose of the business.
We pride ourselves on being at the forefront of this evolving workplace journey. Our goal has always been simple: to design and build workspaces that don’t just look amazing but help people and businesses thrive. For 30 years, we’ve been leading the charge, and we’re not slowing down anytime soon.
Here’s to the next thirty years.
Toby Benzecry, Founder
Click here to download our 30th Anniversary book.