A recent report from GPS Air suggests that indoor air quality (IAQ) and overall workplace comfort are playing a growing role in how employees evaluate return-to-office expectations.
The company’s 2026 Indoor Air Quality Report: The Return-to-Office Reality Check finds that employees are placing greater emphasis on environmental conditions after years of working from home. According to the report, 61 percent of respondents said they would choose fresher, more comfortable air over better workplace amenities for a full workday, signaling a shift in priorities toward foundational building performance.
That shift is also influencing return-to-office sentiment. The report found that 67 percent of workers would be more willing to work on-site if employers clearly communicated the steps being taken to maintain a healthy and comfortable environment. Visibility appears to be a key factor, with 52 percent of respondents wanting frequent or real-time updates on workplace conditions.
The findings highlight how quickly employees form impressions of a space. More than half (53 percent) said temperature and airflow are the first factors they notice upon entering a workplace, followed closely by cleanliness (51 percent) and noise levels (45 percent). These environmental cues are also closely tied to productivity, with 57 percent identifying temperature and airflow as the top driver of their ability to work effectively.
Beyond comfort, employees are interpreting building conditions as indicators of facility management quality. Nearly 7 in 10 respondents said issues such as odors, dust or inconsistent temperatures at least occasionally make them feel a workplace is not well maintained. Conversely, visible improvements such as better ventilation or clear maintenance communication can build trust, with 83 percent saying such efforts would make them feel more respected as employees.
Ultimately, the report showcases a broader shift in the return-to-office conversation. While amenities and workplace design remain important, the data suggests that consistent IAQ performance, thermal comfort and transparent communication may have a more immediate impact on employee confidence and their overall willingness to return.
Jeff Wardon, Jr., is the assistant editor of the facilities market.
