The dawn of 2020 has seen a rapid shift in the way we operate in the workspace, and it’s estimated that workplaces will continue to evolve as the decade progresses. On top of adapting to the shockwaves left by coronavirus pandemic, there’s also an increased awareness for maintaining a healthy work/life balance and a focus on sustainable practices. The future of office design will likely incorporate the growing concern for sustainable living, whilst also taking into consideration tactics to mitigate the spread of future viruses.
The Future Of Office Design Our Predictions
Less open plan design and more clustered working
When it first started picking up in popularity, open plan office design was hailed as the superior alternative to closed, cubicle style offices. But since the rise of COVID and ensuing space restrictions that have now become the norm, an open space office is now not considered a desirable option. Other factors, such as constant interruption, noise concerns, and lack of privacy, has added to open place office spaces becoming more a nuisance than an advantage. It’s likely that the future of workplace design won’t involve returning to the stark, contained cubicles we’ve come to associate with 90s office life, but more so a combination of open and closed spaces i.e. sectioned teams and open space areas for collaboration, such as a dedicated recreational area.
More coworking spaces and shared office spaces
On the flip side, with the ever-increasing rise in real estate property, many companies may opt to rent out offices in coworking spaces. These types of office environments are a wonderful source of creativity and collaboration, as they often have companies from all kinds of industries working under one roof. Many coworking spaces also offer serviced offices complete with services such as receptionists and IT support, to sweeten the deal for prospective clients.
Hygiene stations, staggered desks, and plastic shields
Pre 2020, the idea of putting up Perspex dividers or plastic shields may have seemed like a bit of an overkill, and better left for a salad bar. But the spread of the coronavirus has seen many companies having no choice but to quickly adapt their hygiene processes to keep working. Aside from staggering desks and providing hygiene kiosks, dividers are a cost effective and easy to incorporative solution that doesn’t require completing renovating the entire office space. It’s likely that even when the virus dissipates, the future of office design will incorporate plastic dividers or staggered desk spaces.
Health, wellness, and sustainability will be a core focus when it comes to the future of office design
When it comes to desirable working conditions, health and wellness are some of the key factor’s employees consider when choosing a role - and a workplace design can heavily influence this. Considering the average person spends a good portion of their week in an office, particular care and attention should be paid to a workspace fitout. This includes access to natural light, elements of nature, and a rooftop area (though that’s not always doable). It’s likely that future office spaces will become a lot more creative, and that companies will compete for viable candidates by offering desirable workspaces as an incentive.
Are you an employer looking to fast track your office into the future with a new office interior design? Get ahead of the future of office design by getting in touch of our office fitout professionals today.