The traditional office, a once well-known and standardised environment, has transformed significantly over the last few years. The growing need for flexibility has meant that businesses need to get creative with how they are utilising their brick-and-mortar workspaces. This involves making the office a place people want to visit instead of having to visit. But what does designing an office for the future look like? Discover our top 3 takeaways:
Offices should be designed with employee engagement, team wellbeing and productivity at the forefront. Many new office spaces are created to prioritise ergonomics, inclusivity, flexibility, and environmental factors, all of which profoundly impact the way employees work and collaborate.
Collaboration Spaces are more important than ever
Collaborative workspaces, equipped with interactive whiteboards, comfortable seating and tech-enabled meeting rooms, encourage teamwork and idea exchange. Hot-desking and shared workstations offer employees the freedom to choose their working area based on their tasks, enhancing adaptability and efficiency.
Ergonomic furniture comes as standard
Adjustable desks and supportive chairs, specifically tailored to support the physical well-being of employees, have become standard to prevent physical health issues at work. According to the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID), inclusive office spaces not only improve job satisfaction but also boost employee morale and collaboration.
Light, sound and temperature are now a priority
Natural light, ventilation and ambient temperature significantly impact employees' well-being and productivity. Offices are now designed to maximise natural light exposure, reducing reliance on artificial lighting. Adequate ventilation ensures a continuous supply of fresh air, increasing alertness, and maintaining an optimal ambient temperature is crucial; too hot or too cold environments can lead to discomfort and decreased productivity.
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