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Designing for Growth: Why Charlotte’s Workspaces Must Compete Like Never Before

By Kevin Scully AIA, NCARB

May 23, 2025
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It’s no surprise that U.S. News & World Report ranked Charlotte among the top five Best Places to Live.

With its temperate climate, affordable cost of living, and dynamic mix of culture, business, and southern charm, the Queen City continues to draw newcomers in—117 people move to the region daily, according to the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance.

For local employers, this steady population growth is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it provides a robust talent pool. On the other, it intensifies competition—not just for business, but for the attention and commitment of that talent. With new opportunities arriving daily, your offer letter alone isn’t enough. Your workplace must work just as hard to attract and retain top talent.
Design Collaborative Charlotte Office Entry Wall
Design Collaborative Charlotte Office Entry Wall

The Competitive Advantage of People-First Places

When Design Collaborative expanded to Charlotte in 2021, we brought with us three decades of experience designing what we call People-First Places—environments that prioritize the well-being, productivity, and experience of the people who use them. It’s a philosophy that has shaped projects across half of the country.

In Charlotte, that approach has resonated deeply with the University of North Carolina Charlotte who noted how “engaged and responsive the design team has been throughout the design process.” Their new space has been so thoughtfully tailored to the needs of the users of the space that it may set a new benchmark for a truly People-First Place on the campus. Yet another corporate client who has a worldwide presence was equally inspired by the collaborative process and the focus on employee experience—so much so that they have asked us to assist them in establishing new space design standards for all of their office refresh projects.

These aren’t just design choices—they’re business strategies. In a market where talent has options, people-first environments help employers stand out.

Design with Fingerprint, Not a Template

At the heart of our work is our proprietary design process: a process that we have branded as Fingerprint. It’s built on collaboration, consensus, and a deep understanding of what makes each client unique.

We don’t start with assumptions. We start with questions. How does your team operate? What are your pain points? How do you want your space to support your people, your culture, and your future? We combine these insights with our deep market experience to create a tailored solution—not a one-size-fits-all plan—that is unique to the needs of our clients and positively impacts the lives of those who will work, live, and play in the spaces that have been created.

When done right, this process results in more than just a building. It produces a space that reinforces the way you work, strengthens your culture, and enhances your organization’s identity.
Director in a Meeting
Director in a Meeting

Your Design Team Matters More Than You Think

If you’ve been through a design or construction project, ask yourself:

  • Was the process engaging?
  • Did your team feel heard?
  • Was there a clear vision that reflected your goals?

If the answer is yes, you’ve likely seen how the right environment can energize your team and boost productivity. If not, it’s worth reconsidering how you select your next design and construction partner.

To help guide that process, we recommend reading: Choosing the Right Architect for Your Project: What Should You Be Asking to any organization planning to build or renovate in today’s competitive climate.

A Shared Investment in Charlotte’s Future

As Charlotte continues to grow and attract new residents, the competition for talent and business will only intensify. The organizations that stand out won’t be those offering the most perks on paper—but those creating environments where people genuinely want to work. By designing workspaces that are as compelling as the city itself—people-first, purpose-driven, and rooted in culture—we not only strengthen our own teams, we shape the kind of community that continues to draw talent in and keep it here. In a city known for its momentum, let’s make sure our workspaces help carry it forward.

Ready to compete for top talent with a workplace that sets you apart? Let’s talk about creating a people-first workplace that reflects your culture and drives growth. Contact us to start a conversation.

Article published in the Charlotte Business Journal.

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