Office space designs have evolved over the years. And coworking and shared offices have defined the feel and look of a modern office space. Wellness and the idea of creating a vibrant work environment has taken priority. Office as a concept of space for both professional and social connection has gained more prominence in the last few years.
In addition to supporting growth and agility of companies, coworking offices have added another dimension to the idea of work space. It has also become a place to socialise and recover from the fatigue of loneliness during the pandemic. As a recent Harvard Business Review article highlighted, working from a third space like a coworking site is more socially fulfilling than working from the office or from home. One of the reasons is “coworking spaces has not only provided flexibility in a workplace but with whom” And accommodating these concepts is at the core of office designs in shared spaces. We look at some of the popular design trends that have shaped up in India in the last few years.
- Open and common spaces
Today, there is a need for offices to reflect as a vibrant and progressive environment. This has led traditional cubicles, which have long characterised the corporate world, to give way to open and collaborative work places. These spaces are usually a mix of private offices and shared common areas that offer employees flexibility throughout their workday. Apart from cost efficient, such open spaces provide agility for companies to move fast and hire more people without the constraint of space. Most importantly, it allows employees a convenient spot to interact and socialise more often with fellow employees or outside their company.
- Setting up distinct work zones
Establishing dedicated corners for usage within the office premise has gained popularity. Apart from dedicated private rooms, meetings and common areas, there are other unconventional spaces that comes with a distinct usage. For instance, creating ‘quit zones’ for employees looking for uninterrupted period to focus on a particular project. Soundproofed meeting pods or phone booths where workers can make calls without disturbing others in the area. Or a collaborative zone where members of various teams can brainstorm ideas or work together on a project.
- Natural light and Green Spaces
With growing importance of mental health and physical wellness, office space designs are also finding ways to adjust to these needs. One of the quickest options is allowing a lot of natural light and adding greeneries. Increasingly offices are taking advantage of the natural light and bringing them inside the workspace. Not only are they cost efficient, sunlight is proven to have a positive effect on health and mood. Adding low-light tolerant houseplants helps in brightening the space as well as adding creating a calming vibe while keeping the air clean in a natural way.
- Adaptable furniture and storage options
Modern furniture options are catching up within workspaces. Flex spaces are filled with high-back sofas, couches that are movable, and fully ergonomic chairs with height, arm, back, and reclining adjustments. These ergonomic furniture have been specifically designed for efficiency and comfort in the working environment. Unlike traditional office furniture, they facilitate keeping one’s body safe and upright to reduce stress on the spine, neck and hips.
