The Office Market Is Shrinking—Here’s Why AV Technology Is More Important Than Ever in Hybrid Workspaces

The U.S. office landscape is changing—and fast. According to new data from CBRE, 2025 will mark the first time in over 25 years that more office space will be demolished or converted than built. In other words, the total footprint of U.S. office space is shrinking.

This trend is primarily driven by the long-term effects of remote work and hybrid office models, which have reshaped companies' views on space, productivity, and collaboration. As the traditional office is reimagined, audiovisual (AV) technology is stepping into the spotlight.

From Bigger Offices to Smarter Offices

CBRE’s latest report highlights that 23.3 million square feet of office space across the top 58 U.S. markets is slated for demolition or conversion in 2025, while only 12.7 million square feet of new space will be built. That’s a net reduction in office inventory, a shift that reflects changing employee expectations and the rise of flexible workspace design.

But this doesn’t mean the office is disappearing—it’s evolving. The future isn’t about more space; it’s about better space. To facilitate this transition, businesses are turning to AV integration services to create smarter, more connected environments.

Why AV Technology Is Critical in Hybrid Offices

In today’s hybrid work environment, your office isn’t just a place to sit—it’s a hub for collaboration, communication, and connection. Here’s how modern AV solutions are helping companies thrive:

Professional Video Conferencing Systems

Hybrid meetings are the new normal. Whether it’s Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or Google Meet, a reliable video conferencing installation is essential. AV Planners deploys solutions like Neat Bars, Crestron control systems, and QSC audio to ensure clear communication between in-office and remote participants.

Smart Meeting Rooms & Huddle Spaces

With smaller office footprints, teams rely more on multi-use areas. We outfit huddle rooms, boardrooms, and hybrid workspaces with easy-to-use AV setups that support brainstorming, presentations, and client calls—all with seamless functionality.

Room Scheduling Systems

With fewer desks and more flexible space usage, companies need smart scheduling tools. Crestron room schedulers help manage occupancy, reduce friction, and optimize meeting room usage in real-time.

Improved Employee Experience

Today’s workforce expects their office tech to match their home tech. That means intuitive interfaces, no lag, and high performance. The proper AV setup doesn’t just support work—it boosts morale and drives employee engagement.

Conversions, Consolidations, and AV-Driven Design

As more office space is converted into residential units or mixed-use spaces, the demand for high-performance audiovisual (AV) systems in commercial spaces is increasing. Class A office buildings with robust AV infrastructure are already seeing more vigorous leasing activity, and hybrid-ready offices are outperforming outdated setups.

At the same time, developers are preparing an additional 85 million square feet of office space for conversion in the coming years, making now the perfect time to invest in AV technology for hybrid workplaces.

Why AV Planners?

At AV Planners, we specialize in creating AV environments tailored for hybrid work. We’ve worked with top-tier clients—including Disney, Spin Master, Easter Seals, and Hudson Pacific—to deliver audiovisual systems that support flexible, scalable collaboration.

Our services include:

• AV system design and integration

• Video conferencing system installation

• Sound masking and distributed audio

• Digital signage and wayfinding

• Ongoing service, support, and AVaaS (AV-as-a-Service) subscription models

Whether you're reimagining a workspace, converting an older office, or building out a new hybrid hub, our team is here to help you make AV a strategic advantage, not just a utility.

Get Started with Smarter AV Solutions Today

The shift toward smaller, smarter offices is here. If you're consolidating your real estate, adapting to hybrid work, or refreshing your technology, now is the time to invest in AV systems that enable collaboration and connection.

Contact us to schedule a discovery call or site walk-through.
Let’s build a workspace that works—wherever your team is.