2022 office design trends have shifted away from the standard cubicle design. Companies, especially multinationals, are now opting for a more open and collaborative environment. This is known as a blended workspace.
A blended workspace model is where corporations take a flexible approach to in-office vs. remote work — allowing for a little of both. This approach came post-pandemic, giving businesses the advantage of supporting employee safety and wellbeing while also having a central, physical workspace. For many companies, this middle-ground working style may be here to stay. So how can company owners create a space that fits this new work style? Here are a few tips from our senior interior designer, Reshma:
Natural Sunlight
Recent medical and biological research has consistently shown the link between good lighting and better productivity. The non-visual physical effects of light positively influence health, alertness, and even sleep quality.
A 2014 case study examines the impact of daylight exposure on the health of office workers; and, in turn, concluded that those working in windowless environments reported poorer scores than those with more exposure to sunlight. Another case study in 2017 published by the National Sleep Foundation found that workers exposed to high levels of natural sunlight reported better sleep than workers sitting in dim lights during working hours.
Architectural designs should focus on creating workspaces with maximum exposure to sunlight. Consider floor-to-ceiling windows with indoor plans to create a natural calming space.
Semi-Private pods
Office pods and booths are a great way of creating a more sensitive and flexible working space. Even more so in a post-covid world! However collaborative and dynamic office designs are, employees still need to find a more quiet and intimate space for team meetings and solo work for time-sensitive tasks. It provides workers with a stress-free environment away from their desks.
Pods are excellent for hybrid collaboration, one-on-one meetings, and private catch-ups. And from a designer’s perspective, they are easy and quick to install. When choosing the right booth for your company, consider what kind of privacy your employees are looking for. Is it for small groups? Client meetings? Visual privacy? Video conference? or private phone calls? And if you have a more extensive office space, it’s best to incorporate different booths, large and small, so they can collectively cater to all the employee needs.
Collaborative point
Although boots and pods create a closed collaborative setting, having a more natural point allows for a more social conversation. Blended office spaces should consider creating a dedicated space where employees can meet and interact socially. This could be a coffee center or a canteen with tables & chairs. Employees can take a break from day-to-day tasks and have a space to interact, get to know the team, and even brainstorm ideas!
Another great addition is adding sofas for a more relaxed element of space. A blend of professional and soft interiors is ideal for a balanced blended space.
Colour Pallet
Colour is an essential part of how we experience the world and has a direct link to our emotions. Office spaces that don’t emphasize color are missing the mark on boosting employee mood and wellbeing.
The dynamic aspect of colour has been studied for centuries. One of the earliest forms of this exploration was by the German poet Johann Wolfgang who created the theory of colors in 1810. Consider vibrant tones for areas where employee collaboration is at its peak, such as pods, social spaces, etc. Styles of yellow and orange positively impact the brain, creating more optimism and energy.
Consider using green to symbolize a natural environment for more formal spaces to reduce anxiety. Studies have shown that employees are most productive and confident in offices with a predominantly blue color.
Before choosing the primary colour within an office, it’s worth considering the mood, atmosphere, and level of productivity that you seek to have. It’s best to add a mix of both and see which works best for employees.
Soft furniture
In a contemporary workplace setting, furniture plays a vital role in setting the ambiance, giving it a safe and relaxing atmosphere where employees can find comfort. It also aids in productivity and efficiency in operations and is more extensive than we think! Soft furniture promotes an open and casual workspace, such as sofas, beanbags, and large cushions. Employees can find a change of seating and move to the courches for a more relaxed workspace. This helps to increase your office social network and creates a home-away-from-home feel.
Tier seating
Tier seating is the new ‘hip’ way to work. In blended spaces, since employees are mobile and use laptops and smartphones for work, they can easily take advantage of tiered seating by plopping down in a comfortable spot and starting their tasks. This collaborative seating allows working in comfort and convenience all in one.
Tiered seating areas also save space because they are repurposed for different things. It’s a great place to hold a brainstorming session, a town hall, or a meeting presentation. There’s no need to get another room. They look great too in an office design!
If you’re looking to redesign your office space, get in touch with us today! We’ll plan, design, and build your vision to life!