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City firms ‘retrofit’ buildings to lure staff back to offices

Cacao floors, wellness rooms and outside space are being installed to improve staff well-being and drive green credentials as firms try to appeal to Gen Z

A growing trend: Refurbishing offices is much more environmentally friendly than building from scratch
A growing trend: Refurbishing offices is much more environmentally friendly than building from scratch Photo: Getty Images

In February 2021 — a year after the Covid-19 pandemic started — UK executives at law firm Baker McKenzie decided it was time for a change.

Covid had shaken up the way its staff worked and less space was needed. It had been at its City headquarters on 100 New Bridge Street for 31 years, but the lease was nearly up.

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