In a world where traditional office spaces are evolving into dynamic, experiential environments, there’s a growing need to reimagine the workplace. Coleen Werner, founder of Lulafit, is at the forefront of this transformation.

In a recent podcast conversation, she shed light on how Lulafit is leading the charge in redefining the concept of front-of-house hospitality in commercial real estate.

From Amenities to Hospitality: The Paradigm Shift

The terms “amenity” and “hospitality” often intersect in commercial real estate but have distinct implications. Coleen offers valuable insights into how these concepts differ from her perspective, emphasizing the importance of hospitality in today’s evolving workplace culture.

To grasp the essence of this shift, it’s crucial to understand the fundamental difference between amenities and hospitality.

In a traditional sense, amenities refer to the physical features or perks within a building, such as a lounge or fitness center. While these amenities may add value, they often need to create a compelling reason for individuals to return to their workplace with enthusiasm.

Hospitality, on the other hand, transcends the physical space and encompasses the entire experience. It’s about the people, services, and interactions that make the workplace an inviting and enriching environment. Coleen explained that Lulafit focuses on the “front of house” aspect, essentially the face of the building where tenants and visitors interact daily.

Front-of-House Hospitality: What Does It Cover?

In Coleen’s perspective, front-of-house hospitality entails managing the countless interactions and services that define a building’s culture and atmosphere. This includes:

Lobby Experience: Lulafit strives to make the first impression a lasting one. From welcoming tenants and visitors to providing assistance and information, the lobby becomes a dynamic space where people feel valued and acknowledged.

Meeting and Conference Spaces: Effective management of these spaces ensures seamless bookings and access, facilitating collaboration and productivity among tenants.

Tenant Engagement: Lulafit actively engages tenants through newsletters, events, and activities within the building. This fosters a sense of community and purpose among occupants.

Wellness and Fitness Activation: Beyond traditional amenities, Lulafit promotes wellness and fitness programs, creating a workplace culture of health and well-being.

The Evolution from Amenity to Hospitality

The shift from amenities to hospitality represents a broader cultural transformation within commercial real estate. Tenants now seek workplaces that resemble luxury hotels rather than conventional office spaces.

This evolution is driven by the understanding that a well-curated, experiential workplace enhances employee satisfaction, productivity, and overall well-being.

The Implications for the Future of Work

The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the shift towards flexible work arrangements. While remote work offers freedom and convenience, it also underscores the significance of the physical workplace. It’s no longer just a place to work; it’s a place to connect, grow, and thrive.

As companies navigate the changing work landscape, front-of-house hospitality becomes critical to the workplace equation. It’s not just about having a tenant lounge or a fitness center; it’s about curating an experience that inspires individuals to choose the office over remote work.

In an age where flexibility and choice are supreme, front-of-house hospitality positions the office as a place of connection, learning, and purpose. It’s a demonstration of the evolving role of the physical workspace, where the workplace isn’t just a location to get tasks done but a destination that enriches lives.

Finally, Coleen Werner’s insights into front-of-house hospitality through Lulafit highlight a profound shift in how we view and utilize commercial real estate. The rise of hospitality-driven workplace experiences signals an exciting future where the office is more than a space; it’s an ecosystem that nurtures creativity, collaboration, and personal growth.