Is Hybrid Working in the Built Environment Coming to an End?

The debate over hybrid working continues to divide employers and candidates across the built environment. While many professionals value the flexibility of working from home, a growing number of businesses—especially smaller firms—are pushing for a return to the office.

But is hybrid working really on the way out? Or is it simply evolving?

Why Employers Are Calling People Back

Over the past year, we’ve seen a shift in employer attitudes. Some of the world’s biggest names—Alan Sugar, Donald Trump, and Amazon—have made headlines calling for an end to remote work. In the built environment, where projects demand collaboration, team integration, and fast decision-making, office-based work is becoming the expectation again.

Key Drivers Behind the Push for Office-Based Work:

• Delays & Communication Breakdowns – Smaller firms, in particular, are finding that hybrid work slows down decision-making, leading to project delays.
• Stronger Team Culture – Being physically present helps integrate teams and allows senior staff to mentor younger professionals.
• Faster Learning & Development – Graduates and early-career professionals benefit from being in the office, where they can absorb knowledge and develop faster than they would remotely.
• Trust Issues – Some businesses have been burnt by poor productivity during remote work, leading them to question whether it should remain the norm.

What Candidates Want

Despite the push for office-based work, hybrid working remains a key motivator for job seekers. Many professionals have built their routines around flexibility—avoiding long commutes, reducing mileage on their cars, and cutting down on time spent getting ready for work. The ability to work from home even a few days a week is still a major draw in job searches.

What We’re Seeing in the Market:

• Most companies offer at least two days of hybrid working – Some larger firms even provide three days.
• Smaller firms tend to require full office-based work – They argue that hybrid working slows projects and disrupts operations.
• Some firms offer just one remote day per week—if at all – This is often seen in sectors where site presence is crucial.

Who’s Getting Hybrid Work Right?

The businesses managing hybrid working most effectively have firm policies and the right IT infrastructure in place. These companies:

• Set clear expectations – Whether offering two or three days at home, they communicate their policies upfront.
• Invest in IT systems for seamless collaboration – Cloud-based project management, video conferencing, and digital design tools keep remote teams productive.
• Prioritise in-office time for key meetings and teamwork – Ensuring that when employees are in, it's for valuable collaboration rather than just being present. Even just some all-staff days. 
• Use hybrid work as a retention tool – Offering flexibility in a structured way to keep top talent engaged.

What’s Next?

While hybrid working isn’t disappearing, it’s certainly shifting. The built environment industry is seeing a growing divide—larger companies are embracing flexibility to attract talent, while smaller firms are leaning towards full office returns.

If you’re a business navigating this shift, or a candidate looking for a role that aligns with your work-life balance, talk to our team. We work closely with both employers and professionals across the built environment to find the right match.

Get in touch today.

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