In a city known for its culture, community, and creativity, returning to the office in Montreal is less about routine and more about reconnection.
People aren’t just looking for somewhere to work. They’re looking for belonging.
To understand what’s drawing people in, we spoke with Gene, our Community Associate at iQ Offices in Montreal, who sees it firsthand.
From the kitchen to the café to the Thursday Happy Hours, Gene shared their take on what’s making members choose to come in—and why that choice feels more rewarding than working remote.
1. People are craving in-person connection—and it shows
In a city where creativity and culture are woven into everyday life, it’s no surprise that the drive to return to the office isn’t rooted in obligation—it’s rooted in connection.
For many Montrealers, the return to office is, in large part, fueled by something screens never could offer: the joy of presence, the rhythm of routine, and a reason to step into something shared.
“I believe our human need for connection is bringing people back to the office,” Gene explains. “Togetherness cannot be replaced by screens. While many members comment on how much easier and more efficient it is to work with colleagues face-to-face, the quality of life that it brings is brought up much more often.”
They add, “There is no substitute for being together in the same room.”
That comment echoes what many decision-makers are learning: return-to-office success isn’t driven by mandates—it’s driven by emotional payoff.
Being physically present at work doesn’t just make collaboration smoother—it makes people feel more connected, supported, and fulfilled.
2. Flexibility and variety are shaping expectations
Montreal professionals want the best of both worlds: structure that fits into their lives, and freedom to choose how they show up.
Gene sees this clearly during tours.
“The feedback I get from clients, especially during tours, is that they are looking for somewhere that fits into a dynamic lifestyle,” they say. “Having options, like different convenient modes of transportation available, the option to customize desk configurations, and having a variety of common spaces to work out of, creates a varied experience while still providing consistency.”
They elaborate, “Clients are looking for a space that works with them.”
It’s not just about showing up—it’s about how the space meets you when you do. Choice and customization are fast becoming essential ingredients in what makes an office worth commuting to.
3. Culture drives return—and Happy Hour proves it
When members bring guests into the space, they don’t show off their desk. They talk about the vibe. And more often than not, they mention Happy Hour.
“Believe it or not, our members love happy hour, and I think that’s a revealing detail,” says Gene. “These events bring the most connections. Visiting employees catch up with coworkers they would usually only ever see in scheduled meetings. Business partners leaving their day-long meetings at 4:30 p.m. are not met with a quiet, shuttered office, but rather with laughter and mingling.”
Hybrid teams have even started planning their in-office days around it.
Gene explains, “When hybrid-work members are picking what days to come to the office, the resounding recommendation from their coworkers is to come in on Thursdays for Happy Hours. Some companies even plan their general meetings around it!”
Moments of levity, laughter, and shared connection are more than just perks—they’re culture in action, and this desire for culture and connection is clearly exemplified in Montrealers’ fondness for Happy Hour.
4. Everyday rituals are what keep people coming back
It’s the moments that bookend the day—the “good mornings” and “see you tomorrows”—that often leave the biggest impression.
“I’d say there are two big moments that stand out to me in any given day at the office,” says Gene. “The first is when some members go on their morning walk through the space. They’ll stop for a chat or just say good morning. It’s a great way to check in at the start of the day.”
They continue, “The second is saying goodbye to everyone as they head to the elevators. Finishing up my end-of-day tasks at reception is always brighter when the members and I are wishing each other a good evening!”
Humans are social beings, and we crave those small but meaningful interactions that often lack in a remote work environment.
In a workspace, those interactions happen naturally, and provide meaningful moments of levity and connection that might otherwise be missed.
At iQ Offices in Montreal, returning to the office is about feeling part of something. A place where people are known, welcomed, and connected. Where routine feels like ritual, and the office feels like a community.
Want to experience it for yourself? Book a tour and visit a location near you.
If you’d like to dive deeper into these trends, read through our iQ Offices National Survey on the key insights that motivated Canadians to return to work.
