Mark Gilbreath, founder and CEO of LiquidSpace, brought his unique insights to TEDx Sun Valley in 2016, where he explored how historical patterns of transformation provide a lens to understand the profound changes in society today. With sustainability and networked communications at the forefront, he argues we are amidst a revolution as significant as the Industrial Revolution.
Drawing on personal anecdotes and historical analogies, Gilbreath connects the dots between past revolutions—where innovations like the steam engine and printing press reshaped societies—and the current wave of disruption, characterized by flexible work and technology-driven collaboration.
Gilbreath identifies a new paradigm: a shift from rigid, long-term office leases to dynamic, tech-enabled platforms. Just as the telephone and internal combustion engine transformed the 19th century, today’s tools like LiquidSpace are redefining how businesses use office space. Traditional models have left buildings underutilized, with desks occupied only 30% of the time, all while consuming massive resources. This inefficiency, coupled with the urgency of sustainability, demands a radical rethink.
“We’re moving into an era of unbuilding where the focus shifts to repurposing existing spaces rather than constructing new ones.”
- Mark Gilbreath, LiquidSpace Founder & CEO
Through technology and innovative platforms, businesses can now embrace flexibility, empower employees, and reduce environmental impact.
Gilbreath sees this era as a moment for the “crazy ones”—visionaries who dare to challenge norms. He envisions a future where happier employees work in fewer, more sustainable buildings, with technology and flexibility unlocking new possibilities.
“This is a moment for revolutionaries. The crazy ones who believe they can change the world—and as such, they are the ones who do.”
- Mark Gilbreath, LiquidSpace Founder & CEO
As the commercial real estate sector undergoes a profound transformation, Gilbreath encourages businesses to embrace experimentation, adaptability, and innovation as they navigate this exciting, sustainable future.
For more information about flexible office solutions, visit liquidspace.com.