Design and Functionality: How Offices Shape Talent Retention

Laura wakes up every day at 5:30 a.m.—not because her job demands it, but because living in Nezahualcóyotl and working in Polanco means dedicating three and a half hours daily to a commute that drains her body and spirit. Her marathon begins at 7:00 a.m., with overcrowded minibusses, metro transfers, and often an additional ride on the Metrobús (Bus Rapid Transit). By the time she arrives at the office at 9:00 a.m., she’s already spent two exhausting hours navigating the city.

The same ordeal repeats at night. Leaving the office around 6:00 p.m., Laura faces the equally grueling journey home. Between packed trains, endless traffic, and crowded bus lines, she arrives at 9:00 p.m.—too exhausted for anything but a quick dinner before bed. “It feels like my life is reduced to just getting to and from work,” she says resignedly.

Her story is far from unique. Millions of workers in Mexico face similar challenges, with an average public transit time of 71 minutes per day, according to CEPAL. This daily grind doesn’t just erode the quality of life; it redefines the relationship between people and their workplaces.

With more than 900 mid-to-high-end office buildings in Mexico’s major markets—Mexico City, Guadalajara, Monterrey, and Querétaro, according to SiiLA—the issue goes beyond the commute. Many offices fail to justify the effort it takes to reach them, let alone inspire or motivate employees. So, what can companies do to change this reality? How can offices become tools to attract and retain talent?

Location matters, of course. But being in a prestigious area like Polanco in Mexico City or Puerta de Hierro in Guadalajara isn’t enough. Employees increasingly value offices connected to public transportation, close to essential services, and, where possible, nearer to their homes. Companies like Grupo Kaluz, which subsidizes public transport, and BBVA Mexico, which offers corporate shuttles to reduce commute times, have taken tangible steps to ease employees’ daily burden. These initiatives aim to enhance quality of life while reinforcing the company’s commitment to its workforce.

Shortening commute times is just one piece of the puzzle. Once employees arrive, the workspace itself must inspire and energize. Physical design is critical. Seemingly simple changes—upgraded furniture, vibrant colors, and modern communal areas—can make a significant impact. These enhancements not only improve aesthetics but send a clear message of modernity and care for employees. However, their effect tends to fade if not paired with deeper transformations addressing the real needs of teams.

Accessibility, for instance, is a growing priority. Inclusive offices are ethical and legal requirements and strategic differentiators for attracting and retaining talent. Nu’s offices in Mexico exemplify this approach. Spanning over 10,000 m² across Work Polanco and Masaryk 111, these spaces feature wide, obstacle-free pathways, tactile stations for visually impaired employees, and family rooms catering to specific needs. This design goes beyond regulatory compliance, embracing the trend of creating environments where employees can work autonomously and equitably.