Design plays a great part in any modern office. It inspires employees taking advantage of office psychology to increase productivity. The modern office should also be flexible to accommodate the dynamic of the office space. And by serving the needs of individuals, both employees and clients alike will feel comfortable and have an efficient and active working environment tailored to their needs, and the goals of the company.
Modern Office Concepts
The concept of the office should be in-sync with the company. It should satisfy the various departments housed there, incorporating their way of working into the ambiance. The dominating trends when it comes to modern office designs are an open-space model office, and a hybrid, mixing the traditional cubical with the open spaced version.
The Open-Space Concept
An open-space concept means that the office is a constant flow of energy. Employees are encouraged to move around, and in doing so share in the creative flow of co-workers. Although, with this concept there is less room for privacy, there are still more than enough space to create a private work area to concentrate on the individual’s tasks. Also, there is a great sense of not being under pressure, because there are no tight corridors or walls restricting creative and work output.
The Hybrid
On the other hand, a hybrid model has the benefit of open space where people can mix, discuss work and brainstorm, while retaining transparent, closed-off areas for individual departments. This is great for a board and high management to be secluded in order to have the atmosphere needed to make influential decisions for the entire company. Also, it gives a chance for people to have their own private space to get work done, or a conference room free from office bustle to have a successful meeting.
The Essentials of Any Office
Even though there are various concepts of the modern office, some design aspects are retained whatever the model. A modern office has to have high ceilings, as it gives a sense of greater space, and doesn’t restrict employees. Warmer, light wall colors also help in making the office space look bigger, while creative or company-based decor can be put up to inspire staff. On the other hand, walls of offices and meeting rooms should be done in glass, to inspire transparency and openness in the workplace. The final thing worth taking into consideration is the placement of communal spaces within the office. They should be placed center to all working areas, as they provide the greatest source of interaction and collaboration among the work force.
Functional, Modern Furniture
When it comes to furniture in the modern office, it should cater to the person using it, while remaining in harmony with the office. First of all it should be arranged so that it co-exists with the workplace, incorporating design and functionality at the same time. However, it should also provide individuality to each and every employee, remaining flexible to satisfy their particular demands. While tables should be fluid enough to provide employees with choice, to either stand or sit, stylish office furniture should be comfortable and individualistic to provide a sense of ownership. On the other hand, the furniture in client zones has to impress, and provoke the need to do business.
In the end, it is important to remember to always put the human ahead of the office. By doing so, the company will always provide an efficient, functional and inspirational environment which will increase productivity, and employees won’t mind doing a couple of extra hours in the office.
