For many years the flexible work model was only adapted by companies that were willing to trust their employee’s productivity outside of the office walls, however the covid pandemic came in and changed everything.
Over the last few years, we have watched this model gain popularity and praise globally as well as prove (in many cases) that it increases productivity.
As office interiors experts, we have witnessed first hand that the shift toward a more flexible workspace has become increasingly popular, companies are reducing office spaces, changing layouts, and expecting less people to be permanently stationed at their desks for the full workday.
And so in turn, design briefs are focussing on individual human concerns when designing and not just institutional ones.
How we are adapting out designs to suit the concept:
Hot Desks:
Making use of hot desk spaces in smaller offices has become something that simply makes sense.
Because if we break it down, a daily rotation of staff = reduced office space = less rental = reduced business costs = smart business decision.
Movable Furniture:
Office furniture that is easy to move around in order to create collaborative spaces for a high-energy workforce.
Private Spaces:
Private spaces/booths are still required as many people will still seek out the quiet and isolation they need when high levels of concentration are required or private matters are discussed.
Huddle Spaces:
A space for colleagues to maintain a human connection and share ideas, brainstorm, or simply catch up over a cup of coffee.
Technology:
Since the business will rely more heavily on technology to connect remotely with colleagues and clients, the tech and WIFI connection needs to be optimal. As a design team we will make sure to keep connection pathways clear of construction as well as make sure screens are prioritised.
Ways of working within the Hybrid Model:
We are seeing at least three different options when it comes to the weighting given to the home vs office working and naturally our designs will shift to the way in which the client has structured their set up.
Remote-First Hybrid Model:
This model puts remote working first allowing the majority of employees to work from home while maintaining a physical office where employees can work on-site if they wish. These spaces are usually designed to have a focus on collaboration and forming connections with colleagues when they are together.
Standard/Balanced Hybrid Model:
This model allows for an equal balance of working from home or in the office, therefore the design would need to reflect this in having hot desks, movable furniture, social areas etc to create collaborative spaces.
Office first Hybrid Model:
This model would have a more traditional layout however it would still be required to adapt when needed for employees to choose to work remotely.
While to some, it’s the dream to work from home, there are some that thrive in a more structured environment, sitting behind a desk with minimal distraction. It is important to make sure that office spaces still encourage employees to come into work and that a certain level of company culture exists.
Social areas where employees can have drinks after work or enjoy a cup of coffee or lunch together is an important element and one which SA office interiors love to design as the heart of the space.
It is necessary to remember that no business structure is the same and therefore we are equipped to adapt our design strategy to every project.
How can we help you to adapt your space to the needs of your business?
