In early 2020, COVID ushered in a massive shift in how and where we work. Businesses across the globe adapted to remote work, previously a luxury or rarity in most industries. The sudden necessity introduced a new level of flexibility, but five years later the picture is more nuanced.
There’s been a noticeable, strong push back toward in-person work. Companies are walking back earlier promises of long-term remote or hybrid options. The demand for flexibility remains, but corporate leadership is becoming increasingly vocal about the need for physical office presence.
We sat down with Jay Lyons, a commercial real estate broker in the Central Oregon area–with whom we’ve worked on many projects–to explore how this shift is playing out locally and what it means for businesses navigating the post-pandemic workplace.
The Work-From-Home Evolution in Central Oregon
Jay describes remote work as a pendulum swing. “COVID introduced the ability on a widespread scale,” he explains. “But now, companies are finding that while remote work has its benefits, it also comes at a cost, especially when it comes to company culture and collaboration.”
He sees companies in Central Oregon embracing hybrid models, three to four days in the office, with some built-in flexibility. “The office environment has been permanently changed,” he says, “but it’s clear that being together supports stronger teams.”
Why Are Companies Calling People Back?
The return to the office is driven by more than just real estate investments. “Team collaboration is simply easier in person,” he says. “It’s hard to replicate the ability to turn around and chat with a colleague, or mentor a new or young employee, over Zoom.”
Company culture is another major driver. “When culture is a big part of your organization’s identity, it’s nearly impossible to build or maintain that remotely,” he adds. “Leaders are realizing it’s in their best interest, and their employees’, to have people in the office more often than not.”
Is This About Culture or Control?
Some critics suggest that return-to-office mandates are about regaining control, but in most situations, this is not the case. Essentially, return must be intentional. “I think it’s about moving the company forward,” says Jay. “You lose something when you don’t have daily human interaction. Culture and activity are essential to momentum, and both suffer with a fully remote workforce.”
Commercial Real Estate: Right-Sizing, Not Abandonment
While large metro areas like Portland and Seattle are experiencing higher office vacancies, Central Oregon has fared better. “We’re seeing some ‘right-sizing’,” Jay says. “Companies are using less square footage, but we haven’t seen a lot of conversion or subleasing.
Vacancy in Bend remains relatively low in comparison to that of larger cities (around 6% to 7%), reflecting a more stable market. And while some companies have shrunk their footprints and become more efficient with their space, they’re not abandoning office space altogether.
Rethinking the Modern Office
As companies return to the office, they’re also rethinking how those spaces function. “What’s in vogue changes,” Jay explains. “Some are leaning into private offices, others into open meeting areas, and most are using a mix.” Essentially, the layout depends heavily on the industry. “A tech company’s ideal space is going to look very different from an accounting firm’s,” he adds.
Where Is Flexible Work Heading?
The future lies in balance. “Companies are trying to find that middle ground,” says Jay. “Give employees the flexibility they need but also maintain enough structure to move the company forward.” It’s a delicate dance: too rigid and you risk losing talent to more flexible employers; too loose and you risk losing direction and cohesion.
So how should business leaders respond to this ongoing shift? By finding the balance. The remote work revolution may not be over, but it’s certainly evolving. In Central Oregon and beyond, companies are seeking smarter, more intentional ways to combine the flexibility of remote work with the undeniable benefits of being together in person.
Whether through new office layouts, hybrid schedules, or a renewed emphasis on culture, one thing is clear: the future of work isn’t fully remote or fully in-person…it’s somewhere in between.
If your business is looking to right-size, down-size, or increase its footprint in the post COVID era in Central Oregon, Taylor Brooks may have a solution for you. From available class A office suites and build-to-suit opportunities to prime development land to build your own custom project, Taylor Brooks offers solutions to meet the evolving needs of modern business. Contact us to learn more.
About Jay Lyons
As a top-performing broker with Compass Commercial, Jay Lyons provides clients with guidance on the acquisition, disposition and leasing of their commercial real estate assets. His business background and extensive knowledge in the Central Oregon commercial real estate market have allowed him to help clients maximize the value of their commercial real estate portfolios.
