In the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, people are now gradually and tentatively taking their first steps back into office spaces.
For many years, we have been told that the concept of the office is outdated and unnecessary, but having faced the reality of working from home for such a long period of time, many people will be itching to get back to their draughtsman chair.
But how are offices changing and adapting in 2020? Here are some trends that you can expect to see as you make your way back into the office.
Flexibility
Workplaces have long since accepted the need for dynamic forms of flexible working, but this year we will see this brought to a new level. It’s no longer simply about dividing screens; it’s about freedom.
No more bulky furniture or technological restrictions – we need to be able to do our job from anywhere in the office. You’ll see rooms becoming completely multi-functional and a rise in lightweight, moveable furniture and tech. A draughtsman chair that can be wheeled around is just the tip of the iceberg here.
Natural resources
Millennials make up a vast proportion of the workforce, and they want assurance that their employers are doing their bit to protect the environment. You’ll see a lot more natural resources such as wood being used in office design, from flooring, walls and countertops to desks and coffee tables. It will be used both rustically and contemporarily for stylistic and environmental charm.
Community and comfort
Despite the ongoing need for the office, it is clear that more people can and will work from home going forward. This remote way of working has its benefits, but it can divide teams. This year, you’ll see an increase in community hubs within offices, designed to bring people together more when they do happen to be in the office together. These areas – focusing on collaboration and communication – will be designed with home comfort and warmth in mind, so expect plush, homely interiors.
Plants
It’s well proven that plants in the workspace give off oxygen, creating a healthier and aesthetically pleasing workspace. You’ll see more creative ways of doing this, such as office gardens and hanging horticulture that is as much about decor as it is health and productivity.