Creative space isn't just for the coasts, ai Design Group principal Kim Marks tells us. Charlotte's top office space users want it, too.

“Right now natural daylight, sustainably minded design choices and flexibility are at the top of our clients’ wish lists," she says. "We’re also seeing a move toward creative and even playful environments lately, partly because of the changing nature of work and as a way to attract and hang onto top talent.” Recently Babson Capital Management tapped aiDG to design its Charlotte HQ, which will span 205k SF on the top eight floors of 300 S Tryon when it's completed in '17.

Even more than creativity, flexibility is critical, Kim says. That means how the design can adapt to future growth and change, but it also applies to accommodating employees who want a variety of spaces to do their work and the option to sit, stand or just get a change of scenery throughout the day. While still early in the design process, plans for the office currently include a wide range of flexible work and meeting space, private employee and client amenities, a broadcast studio and an outdoor terrace.

New amenities are another way in which buildings are trying to stay competitive, Captivate CEO Marc Kidd tells us. He says he's seeing that Charlotte-area landlords are busy upgrading their amenities to stay on top of things. "Many of our owner and management partners are equipping their Charlotte properties with high-demand, impactful building services and amenities," he notes, naturally citing his company's in-elevator digital screen tech as an example. Demand's so great that the company recently expanded into the Charlotte market.