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Many Google offices were really overcrowded before COVID. For example, Kirkland office literally had desks in stairwells (I have no idea how they passed fire safety). This was the new low, but desks in the hallways are typical everywhere.

I work in the kirkland office. It's definitely VERY (over)crowded there, although I never have seen a desk in a hallway.

I hope (also for myself) that employees get a stipend for working from home; they need a workspace, internet access, electricity, etc to do their job effectively, which was previously provided by the employer at the office.

If they downsize their offices they will be saving a lot of money; at least give part of that to the employees.

I mean how much does an office for a single employee cost in SF?

I agree, it seems like a big draw to work at Google are the benefits, and if these are reduced because of increased remote work, I wonder if more people will leave for competitors?