Law firms across the country are leveraging the rise in office vacancies following the pandemic to prioritize employee wellness as a central component of their real estate strategies. Despite a prevailing trend of shrinking office footprints in the legal industry, a recent study by Savills reveals that firms are achieving higher retention rates and stronger corporate cultures in exchange for moving into more expensive, high-quality spaces.

Savills surveyed law firms that have either renovated or relocated in recent years and found that the majority are participating in the "flight-to-quality" movement. However, these firms are also downsizing or negotiating with landlords to modernize smaller versions of their existing spaces.

Most firms surveyed, whether they relocated or renovated, upgraded their office furniture and implemented flexible workday arrangements. However, firms that relocated were more likely to report improvements in areas such as technology, air quality, and moving to higher floors. In contrast, firms that renovated were more likely to introduce wellness programs, shared offices, and healthier food and beverage offerings.