How Office Design Has Changed – and Why It’s Better Now

Over the years, the way we work has changed… a lot. To keep up with these changes, what makes an office an office is continually redefined. Office design has gone from pure functionality and productivity to boosting employee engagement and happiness.  Now, we’re seeing more ergonomics, collaboration, and creativity in the workplace. Let’s dive into how office design has changed and why it’s so much better now.

A focus on ergonomics

People are meant to move, and movement is the key to ergonomics. Sit stand desks allow employees to adjust their desks to their body for optimal comfort, and move between sitting and standing throughout the day. Other ergonomic equipment like adjustable monitor arms, keyboard trays, footrests, and anti-fatigue mats help create a complete ergonomic setup. Creating an ergonomic office allows employees to work comfortably, be more productive, and ultimately more engaged.

Flexible spaces, for collaboration or concentration

The office of the future is much more flexible, with different areas in which to work and furniture that can be moved around to fit changing needs. Benching sit stand desk systems are a great way to create dedicated solo workspaces that also allow for collaboration. Huddle rooms are another option to allow for collaborative spaces without the formality of a conference room. To provide flexibility and a variety of workspace options, have a mix of collaborative spaces and spaces for quiet, concentrated work. These can be work pods, which are totally private, or quiet rooms that are shared but allow for concentration. As with all workspaces, maintaining the freedom to move things around as needs change is key to future-proofing your office.

Bringing in a bit of nature

Bringing sunlight, greenery, and natural textures into the office creates an invigorating space in which to work. All this nature can actually boost happiness and productivity as well. Large windows that provide plenty of natural light not only help us feel good, but can reduce energy costs. It’s a win win. Decorating with plants that do well indoors and require little maintenance is an easy way to bring some life into any office space. Many modern office designs also feature natural textures like brick, wood, and stone that make the space more inviting.

Technology at your fingertips

Most of our work now centers around technology, and online productivity and collaboration tools help us work better, together. With all this tech, integrating it into our office design will help us use it more effectively. Outfit meeting rooms with interactive whiteboards, large wall-mounted monitors, and video conferencing systems to bring tech and collaboration together. While we already do most of our work on our computers at our desks, seamlessly adding additional technology throughout our offices help us work more productively, wherever we’re working.

The office as a work of art

The modern office is not just about functionality anymore. Now, the office is like a work of art. Creative interior design, architecture, colors, and textures spark creativity, turning the workplace into a catalyst for new and better work. Making offices into a work of art not only attracts top talent, but impresses new clients and inspires employees.

A space for more than just work

Many companies are turning their offices into lifespaces just as much as they are workspaces. They add on-site cafeterias, coffee shops, and happy hour cocktail bars. Others may have gyms, yoga studios, or outdoor jogging trails. The possibilities are endless when you start thinking of the office as a place where life happens, not just work. These added perks can be the deciding factor for prospective employees and shows customers that the company cares about their employees.