The design of your office is critical to how your team is able to function and succeed. By designing spaces that are efficient and functional, you will ensure that your people are happy, engaged, and productive. You can also use your workspace as a marketing tool to help bring in new business. Here are some tips to help you create a space that is perfect for your team.
Multipurpose workspaces
Multipurpose workspaces are becoming a trend in the commercial real estate industry. As employees demand more flexible workplaces, office managers are repurposing their space to serve multiple purposes.
The first and most obvious thing about multipurpose workplaces is that they can be tailored to a company’s specific needs. They are also more efficient with real estate. These multifunctional venues have become a necessity in a world where more people are working from home or on the road. A recent study showed that the average employee spends at least two hours per day on the road. That’s a lot of time away from the office.
One of the biggest benefits of multipurpose workspaces is that they foster a sense of community. By offering a variety of spaces, businesses can attract more diverse crowds and increase their revenue opportunities. For instance, fast-growth companies can use open work areas to host after-hours celebrations. Likewise, they can encourage collaboration by promoting team building activities.
Blended offices
A blended office is a fusion of an office and a virtual workspace. This can be a good way to reduce real estate costs and to improve productivity among employees.
Many companies are experimenting with this type of arrangement. A few examples include Uber, UPS, Ericsson, and UBS. Some even have their own variations. The latest trend in the workforce is to have a hybrid mix of full-time workers and freelancers. The model is also known as activity-based design.
There are many pitfalls to managing a virtual work force. Among the most notable are the lack of privacy and the need for a high level of communication. But, the benefits of this type of arrangement outweigh any shortfalls.
For example, it can be possible to manage a company with only a small headcount. By reducing the number of full-time employees and allowing some employees to work from home, the real estate costs can be minimized. In addition, a blended work schedule allows for improved employee productivity.
Lounges
As the remote workforce grows, companies are finding ways to make work more social and enjoyable. Some are opting to create lounges, which provide a social and relaxed atmosphere for workers. Whether the space is a virtual hangout or a physical area, it is important to consider how the space can support and strengthen employees’ performance.
According to a survey by the Gensler Research Institute, the best workplaces are designed to support collaboration and focus, as well as emotional and spiritual wellbeing. These areas are often found in the office, but can also include public spaces.
One example is the Red Bull HQ in London, which features a reception that turns into a bar after the evening rush. The company has ditched the corporate rules, creating a relaxed atmosphere.
Evidence-based design
Evidence-based design is an approach that uses the latest research to determine the design of physical spaces. It’s a method that focuses on delivering positive outcomes. For example, it’s been shown that incorporating natural light into healthcare settings can improve the healing process of patients.
However, evidence-based design can limit creativity and freedom of choice, which some architects might be concerned about. But if evidence-based design is used correctly, it can deliver positive results and justify the cost of building a new facility.
As a result, a growing number of organizations are requesting evidence-based designers for RFPs. These include healthcare providers and contractors.
Architects have a moral obligation to use evidence-based design. By conducting studies and measuring the effects of their designs, they can ensure that they’re delivering the best possible solutions to their clients.
Polar-star vision
The POLAR STAR has long been considered a best bet for delivering on a multitude of fronts. Its state of the art equipment and unfettered creativity make it a perennial favorite amongst educators. One of its newest additions, the eFinity Series, is a high tech nod to the esoteric. The eFinity is a slick looking display with a minimalistic frame border. This is offset by an upscale appearance, which is further augmented by a wraparound ambient light rejecting projection material.
Aside from the usual suspects, the eFinity has a few more noteworthy additions. One of them being an EDGE FREE (r) projection screen. With a sleek and smooth finish, this is the one to rule the classroom and the barbie. In fact, it’s the type of room you’ll want to book the next time you are in town.
