JLL Dubai creates blueprint for sustainable, collaborative workspaces

People's expectations of offices are evolving. They want spaces that make them feel part of the team, that support their health and wellbeing, that enhance productivity, as well as make a positive difference to the planet.

JLL has set itself an ambitious target to only occupy net-zero carbon offices by 2030, a key milestone in the firm’s journey to achieve net-zero across Scopes 1, 2 and 3 by 2040. The firm also aims to attain a sustainability certification for all offices over 10,000 s. f. by 2030.

In March 2023, JLL relocated its Dubai office to ICD Brookfield Place in the heart of the Dubai International Financial Centre district, the only LEED Platinum-certified office tower in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region. To match the tower’s green credentials, JLL wanted to demonstrate how a holistic approach to sustainability can not only cut operational carbon emissions, but also provide an inclusive, wellbeing-oriented workspace that meets the evolving needs of employees and clients alike.

The JLL Approach: Build sustainability into the lease—and in the design

JLL’s approach aligned with global certification standards like LEED and WELL, and prioritized environmental, health, safety and wellbeing aspects.

JLL integrated technology into all aspects of the office design, utilizing sensors to gather, assess and organize sustainability and occupancy data to help optimize air quality, lighting, temperature and comfort. Technology that supports connectivity is available at every workspace.

By employing data analytics, JLL can understand the working habits and preferences of employees to continually enhance their experience. Data insights also enable JLL to identify and take actions to improve sustainability performance, and develop the reporting required for regulatory compliance and JLL’s own ESG reporting.

Bringing it to life: Showcasing the connection between environmental enhancements and employee experience

Fundamental to the employee experience is the spatial typography of the office and how it creates an open and inclusive environment. From the moment visitors arrive they are welcomed into the office itself. The traditional ‘limbo’ area of a reception no longer exists. Clients can immerse themselves into the co-working area. Quiet spaces allow employees to concentrate while a dedicated wellness room helps people unwind. Ergonomic desks enable users to work at seated or standing positions, and the whole space is step-free throughout.

The office pays homage to the local culture and landscape through biophilic design, natural daylight, carpets with forest/terra pattern akin to an oasis, and surfaces in deep orange hues and warm desert tones. Together, these create a sense of belonging and are also sensitive to neurodiverse needs. Acoustic design helps maintain comfort and limit background noise levels.

The office is designed to the new DEI Standards for the Built Environment, prioritizing inclusivity and wellbeing. The use of colour and texture were also used intentionally to ensure contrast for visually impaired employees.

The fitout uses a raft of technology to optimize employee comfort and meet JLL’s sustainability goals:

• IAQ monitors with scanners are placed over 21 locations to monitor various IAQ parameters including Carbon dioxide, Particulate matter & Volatile organic compounds (VOC).

• Employees can scan the QR code attached to the monitors and see real-time results on the environmental parameters/air quality of the workspace, which can help in identifying the sources of air contaminants and improve the workspace environment.

• Media filters in the ventilation system filter outdoor air supplied to the office space. (Media filters are a great option for eliminating not only dust and dirt, but also common allergens, odours, and even certain viruses and bacteria.) All three fresh air stub outs have MERV 14 rated filters to implement particle filtration for high indoor air quality. In addition, all spaces have filter units with activated carbon filters and HEPA filters.

• Zip Tap Technology provides access to the latest water filtration technology for pure-tasting water

• Categorized waste collection

See a brighter way: 17% energy savings (so far) shows what’s possible

Through its practices and advanced technology, JLL is leading the way for its clients by showing how sustainable and inclusive office spaces can make significant contributions towards meeting net-zero goals. Among the achievements so far:

• 17% improvement in energy use

•  50% reduction in water consumption

• Goal to achieve WELL Platinum status

• Sustainably-sourced materials used in the build-out

For more information on how JLL can help you develop a strategy to meet your decarbonization goals, including building pathways and investment plans to start taking action now, visit our Decarbonization strategy page.