Size, function and design are important factors in planning an innovative office. However, fresh ideas are emerging from new research in workplace psychology, materials & technology ...
Lets take a closer look at some of these innovative trends that will define our future offices ...
1. Biophilic Design
Biophilia is the most popular trend in workplace design. It says that humans have an innate tendency to seek connection with nature and other life forms. So a 'Biophilic Design' incorporates nature and its elements into the design. It gives a feeling of being outdoors while working indoors.
Examples include : Installing large windows for most natural light. Introducing internal courtyards & skylights. Green Walls. Planters. Indoor Aquariums. Use of patterns, colours, fabrics and textures inspired from the outdoors. Realistic photographs and paintings of landscapes, trees, mountains etc.
Biophilic design has proven to tremendously improve health and productivity whilst reducing stress.
2. Integrated Technology
Integrating technology is essential in today's workplace design ...
Equipment and furniture that allows quick installation and connections is important. Eg. in display systems and power management. We should expect more furniture with Integrated wireless charging and shared touch screen tables
Wifi allows employees to work from any place in the office. This encourages collaboration and movement. Since 'Sitting is the new Smoking', more companies are installing height adjustable workstations.
LiFi is another innovation that will change the way we work. It provides an internet connection that is 100 times faster than the present WiFi speeds. LiFi uses light as its mode of transmission, So its less restricted by walls. Its ideal for large open office design. LiFi is going to gain mass adoption by mid-2018, so every company ought to watch out for this trend.
3. Amenties Galore ...
The most essential skill in today's economy is to be focused in an extremely distracted world. The ability to do 'Deep Work' is becoming increasingly rare. 'Deep Work' is the ability to focus without distraction on a cognitively demanding task.
Companies are becoming aware of this and hence the invention of the 'Amenities Room'. Its a room to relax and take time out for themselves. It doesn't have to be huge. A chair or two would do. The idea is to get away from the crowd and be able to introspect and think. Or perhaps, break the routine and simply relax and recharge.
Prayer rooms, gym & yoga rooms within offices are also on a rising trend. So are libraries, open cafes, gaming zones. Anything to break the routine and encourage lateral thinking.
4. Data-Driven Design
Big Data is big news. Data collection and its analysis is again a critical skill to today's companies. What cannot be measured cannot be managed.
Wearable devices / gadgets is making it possible for companies to know how employees work and relate and interact . This is allowing companies to make highly customised and personalised offices. In an era of computer analysis and algorithms, workers are the data that is helping create workplace design that is more efficient, connected, and comfortable.
Different sensors positioned around the room provide data about the present office. Heat maps provide insight into effective seating arrangements, traffic patterns and circulation areas. New apps allow workers to check in with their phone and register their preferences. So the building can react and adjust climate systems.
Big data can also help companies come up with the right mixture of conference and shared space. This helps maximize every square inch to help boost revenue and employee satisfaction.
Every company is a tech company now ...