Flight to Quality: How Better Workspaces Are Driving Talent and Performance

“Flight to quality” has become one of the most widely used phrases in the Brisbane office leasing market and for good reason.

Over the past 18 months, businesses have increasingly prioritised higher quality office space to better support operations, attract talent, and create environments that people actually want to work in.

However, it’s important to note that this doesn’t mean all tenants are moving to premium buildings. Many businesses still seek value-driven options. The real shift is toward better quality, more efficient space, regardless of building grade.

What Does “Flight to Quality” Really Mean?

At its core, flight to quality is about upgrading the workplace experience.

This can include:

• More efficient layouts and modern fit out design
• Improved natural light and views
• Better end of trip facilities and building amenity
• Stronger locations within Brisbane CBD
• Spaces that support collaboration and culture

It’s less about chasing the highest grade building and more about securing a space that works better for your team.

Case Study: A Move That Made a Difference

To better understand the impact, we spoke with Peter Biazos, Director of B & T Advisory.

After relocating from an older, inefficient tenancy at 26 Wharf Street to a brand new spec fit out at 144 Edward Street, his business has experienced a noticeable shift in how the space is used.

Why Relocate Instead of Renew?

The decision came down to functionality and presentation.

The previous office had become:

• Aged
• Disorganised
• Less aligned with business growth

The goal was to create a workspace that felt:

• Modern and vibrant
• Attractive to new employees
• Supportive of long-term expansion

The Impact on Staff

One of the most immediate changes was staff behaviour and engagement.

Key improvements included:

• Increased use of breakout areas
• More consistent office attendance
• Better daily structure through use of meeting spaces

The surrounding amenity also played a role, with the team benefiting from the lifestyle and convenience offered by a central Brisbane CBD location.

The Impact on Clients

The new office also enhanced client experience.

The upgraded space allowed for:

• Hosting events such as presentations and seminars
• A more professional and polished environment
• Stronger alignment between brand image and physical space

Ultimately, the office became a tool to reinforce business credibility and growth.

Efficiency Over Size

One of the most interesting outcomes was that the business actually downsized slightly in terms of sqm, yet gained a stronger sense of space.

This highlights a key trend in Brisbane office leasing:

• Well-designed fit out matters more than raw size

A more efficient layout can:

• Improve workflow
• Increase usable space
• Enhance overall functionality

What This Means for Brisbane Businesses

While this is just one example, it reflects a broader shift across the market.

Businesses are increasingly recognising that:

• Office space plays a role in talent attraction and retention
• Workplace quality impacts productivity and culture
• Efficient design can reduce costs while improving experience

The flight to quality is less about spending more and more about spending smarter.