Private Offices Are Back—and SMBs Are Owning the Moment
Forget the cubicle farms and chaotic open floors—private offices are having a full-blown comeback, and it’s small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs) that are leading the charge.
In today’s hybrid work world, the office isn’t just a place to sit—it’s a power move. It’s where focus meets flexibility, and where culture gets a physical address. And guess what? The private office is stealing the spotlight.
Let’s Talk Numbers
- Over 50% of leasing activity in 2025 is coming from tenants looking for 10,000–20,000 sq. ft. spaces—perfect for private or semi-private setups.
- 63% of employees say they don’t have enough quiet space in open offices. That’s a lot of people craving calm.
- And the big one: the #1 thing employees want at work is privacy. Not snacks. Not ping pong. Privacy.
- Bonus stat: Enclosed meeting rooms are used twice as often as open collaboration zones. Translation? People want walls.
The message is loud and clear: employees want space to think, breathe, and get stuff done—without someone microwaving fish next to them.
Why Privacy Is the New Productivity
Open offices were supposed to be the future. But instead of sparking collaboration, they sparked... complaints.
- Noise everywhere. Conversations, footsteps, keyboard clatter—it’s a symphony of distraction.
- No boundaries. Visual clutter and constant interruptions? Hello, burnout.
- Less real interaction. Ironically, open layouts often push people to Slack instead of talking face-to-face.
Private offices flip the script. They offer mental clarity, confidentiality, and control—especially for roles that require deep focus or sensitive conversations. It’s not about isolation—it’s about intentional space.
SMBs: The Unsung Heroes of Office Evolution
According to CBRE, companies with fewer than 1,000 employees are driving most of the office expansion, while big corporations are downsizing. Why? Because SMBs are smart. They’re choosing flexible, right-sized spaces that actually work for their teams.
Private offices help SMBs:
- Create quiet zones for deep work.
- Offer personalized spaces that reflect their brand.
- Project professionalism—especially when clients come knocking.
- Support hybrid work without sacrificing focus or culture.
Meet Embank: The MVP of the Private Office
Need a workspace that flexes with your team? Say hello to Embank—a simple, modular desking and storage system that’s built for the modern office.
With smart configurations, built-in storage, and warm finishes, Embank helps companies create semi-private workspaces that balance focus and collaboration. It’s like giving your office a productivity upgrade—with style. 
The Future of Work Is Quietly Bold
Private offices aren’t old-school—they’re next-gen. They’re the answer to hybrid headaches, productivity slumps, and culture confusion. And for SMBs looking to grow, retain talent, and make a statement? They’re a no-brainer.
Ready to rethink your space? The private office is waiting—with the door slightly ajar.
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