Once upon a time, designing an office may have simply been a case of “fill this room with desks, but don’t spend a lot of money” and while that may have worked then, it doesn’t now. With a greater amount of research into workflow and professional output as well as a multitude of creative new technologies, we are living in a time where your office layout is limited only by your imagination. In 2018, the aim of the game is to foster environments that inspire and reinvigorate, and where employees can do their best work in an environment that suits them.
With this in mind, here are five workplace design trends we expect to see in 2018.
1. More green
In 2018 we expect to see an increased prevalence of plants in the office.Humans have a hardwired connection to nature, according to Harvard conservationist Edward O. Wilson. Being shut away from the natural world can lead to a lack of a productivity, energy and generally upsets employees’ mood balance. Studies into biophilic design elements suggest bringing nature to your employees.
2. Textural Interplay
With minimalist or more streamlined designs, adding textures is one way an office can establish a subtle contrast. Texture can provide workers with more sensory experiences which can, in turn, summon the nostalgia of home comfort. From fabric wall panels to lush rugs, textures can make the office feel more homely. We’ve seen contrasting textures used to great effect recently and we expect more and more of this in 2018.
3. Equal access
Improving access for all individuals regardless of limitations with mobility is essential. There’s a lot that can be done in this area, but from a design perspective you can start with furnishings. Desks with adjustable heights and adaptive chairs can go a long way towards making disabled staff members thrive in their environment. This year is all about giving staff the space to work freely, and that includes every member of your team.
4. Unconventional workspaces
Typically when we think of work spaces we think “desk” or simply of “the office“. There is, however, a large push away from this kind of thinking as many workplaces are creatively utilising excess space. Whether standing desks in wide hallways and narrow rooms, bean bags in large open spaces or treadmill desks, being creative and open with how your employees can work means you can let them do it in their element.
5. Rest stops
The office clown may well have suggested a “nap room” on a particularly difficult Monday, but did you know this clown was actually on to something? A recharge room that’s closed off from external sources provides a space where employees can take short rests. Note this is not a break room, but a place that allows some down time. Whether it’s fitted out with couches or yoga mats, staff that have had some time to reflect are far more likely to return to full output mode when they return to their work.
Do you think any of these design considerations could be advantageous to your team? If you’re considering a fit out for a new workplace, get in touch with Innova today to see how our years of expertise can benefit you.
