The rise of open-plan offices has increased over the past decade, aiming for collaborative environments but decreasing personal space from 23m2 per employee to just 6m2. However, private offices are making a comeback, supported by smart building technology, offering benefits like privacy, improved productivity, and personal space customization. These offices are proving essential post-pandemic, facilitating social distancing and enhanced cleaning regimes. Matthew Marson, in his monthly column, discusses these shifts in office dynamics and the integration of smart technology in building management.