Generations and perceptions: people from different generations like office work for different reasons

The characteristics of the office environment of domestic white-collar workers were examined in a quantitative online research conducted by iO Partners in June 2025 on a sample of 500 people. The survey showed clear generational differences in the perception of the office work environment, and overall drew attention to the fact that the real question is not whether an office is necessary, but who, why and in what form considers it indispensable.

Home office or office?

According to the research, nearly half (52%) of Hungarian metropolitan office workers work from home on some regular basis. However, there are marked differences in the proportions: the proportion of people working from home at least three days a week is highest among Generation Y (30–45 years old) (41%), compared to 27% for Generation X (45–60 years old).

Nearly two-thirds (64%) of older people do not work from home at all or only in very justified cases (this proportion is 43% for Generation Y and 42% for Generation Z), while for the youngest employees, 20–30 years old, working from home 1–2 days a week is the most typical: this is true for 35% of them.

Where does efficiency come from?

39% of those participating in the research considered the home office to be more efficient, while 20% considered the office, but an interesting pattern emerges here between the age groups. Generation X is the most likely to find office work more productive, while Generation Y finds working from home to be the most effective. However, almost half (46%) of the youngest workers said that both workspaces are equally effective.

What makes an attractive office?

It may not be surprising that Generation Z, as digital natives, are confident in working remotely, but an interesting lesson from the research is that they value company and closeness to their colleagues as a particularly important advantage when it comes to working in the office. In terms of their preferences, they found that they enjoy working in modern, communal spaces, appreciate ergonomic equipment, and an open, collaborative office environment. Among the improvements, they support the introduction of telephone booths and quiet zones the most.

For Generation Y, the most important factor in the ideal office is a good location and accessibility. This is true for the entire sample, but Generation Y represented this opinion in the highest proportion (74%). They are the ones who consider working from home to be the most efficient, but at the same time they see the office as a means of creating a work-life balance. They also value the positive impact of office design and the visual environment – ​​including artwork and decorations – the most. For many of them, the office is a space where they can work more organized and focused.

Members of Generation X are the most conservative office users: 48 percent of them never work from home. They consider visiting the office to be the most efficient, primarily because of the daily routine and maintaining structure. Although they also prioritize a good location and shorter travel time among the characteristics of an ideal office, new types of office spaces or developments have a less stimulating effect on them.

Can an office be efficient and lovable?

Although the research clearly outlines the differences between generations, the results also show that a motivating, inspiring and efficiency-enhancing office environment can be created for all age groups.

According to iO Partners experts, the workspace is now not only a functional issue, but also a strategic tool: the right environment not only increases the satisfaction and productivity of existing employees, but also provides a competitive advantage in attracting new talent. A company that can adapt to these needs not only gains more satisfied, but also loyal, committed employees.