Future-Casting: Where are we now and how is the workplace evolving? 

For the past several years, companies have been focused on the challenges at hand - shifting work patterns, an increase in hybrid work and what that means to their portfolio and work habits. But the world continues to evolve and what was once in the distant future is now on the near horizon. We need to understand the key factors that will be influencing the places we work, play, learn and live. From AI to shifting social dynamics, from policies changes and economic considerations to environmental initiatives - change is afoot and we need to understand what that means for our future and the spaces we design. 

Kay Sargent is a practicing, licensed and certified Interior Designer, Author, and Director of Thought Leadership, Interiors at HOK. With 40 years of experience, she has a passion for using design to transform how and where people work. Kay leads project teams that solve clients’ business and organizational challenges related to real estate business process, strategic planning, workplace strategy, change management and designing for inclusion. Kay is author of “Designing Neuroinclusive Workplaces” a book that addresses sensory processing, cognitive wellbeing and neurodiversity in the build environment and why and how we need to address it to create neuroinclusive spaces.