Tom Hitch - Co-create or coerce? Why the best office experiences are built with their people

The Experience Designers

What makes a workplace worth the commute? In this episode, we sit down with workplace experience explorer and content creator Tom Hitch to uncover how the best office environments are co-created, not commanded.

From sensory design to return-to-office (RTO) policies, Tom shares powerful insights from his travels into global workplaces, highlighting where companies get it right (hello, Miro and Santander) and where they fall flat with flashy but functionless design.

Expect bold ideas, real-world stories, and a challenge to rethink the office not as a place you have to go, but one you’re drawn to. If you're interested in employee experience, workplace culture, or the future of work, this one’s for you.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:34 Debating the Return to Office Mandates
01:22 Challenges and Perspectives on Office Policies
02:44 Communication and Clarity in Workplace Policies
03:56 Examples of Office Policies and Their Impact
08:25 Shifts in Workplace Dynamics Post-Pandemic
12:14 Innovative Office Designs and Employee Experience
17:38 Wellness and Wellbeing in the Workplace
22:23 The Future of Office Spaces and Employee Engagement
26:20 Exploring Office Environments: Personal Experiences
32:51 Exploring Miro's Office Culture
36:20 The Importance of Functionality in Office Design
40:31 Santander's Innovative Office Space
49:05 Future Trends in Workplace Experience
56:37 Reimagining the Office Environment
01:01:53 Conclusion and Where to Find More Content

Tom's Bio & Links

Co-Founder and Creative Director of WRKPLC, a first-of-its-kind workplace strategy business that uses creative content and media about office design. Our content is designed to help inspire and educate people on how to make decisions on their workplace.

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@wrkplc
Website: https://www.wrkplc.co.uk/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thitch