Some of us may remember the offices of the last century, filled with rows of desks or cubicles and lots of bulky IT equipment. These set ups had some advantages, as they allowed supervisors to oversee workers easily, but it could also feel dehumanising and make communication more difficult.
These rigid production line layouts largely gave way to more people-centred open plan designs during the late 1990s and early 21st century. This helped to foster a more collaborative and open culture that makes communication easier and breaks down hierarchies.
While this arrangement can have drawbacks such as noise and distractions, it has become the standard model of the present day. But what can we expect from the office of the future? Here are some emerging trends.
The rise of technology
It would be impossible to discuss the future of offices without referring to the rapid technological changes of the past couple of decades. It is now possible to work with wireless technology and high speed internet connections, combined with smart meeting rooms and collaborative software packages that allow work to be done across locations and time zones.
The increased use of architectural glazing
Advances in architectural glazing techniques have arguably had more influence over our office designs than anything else, with glass office partitions now a standard way to divide up space without compromising natural light or aesthetics.
Glazing is set to play a major role in the future of sustainable building design, with innovations such as energy efficient or low-E glass. This is a type of glass with a low-emissivity coating that is able to reflect heat back into the building and control the amount of heat that is leaked out of the building.
Smart glass is another innovation that is set to change the efficiency and comfort of office designs. It is a type of glass that incorporates a layer that can transform from clear to opaque when an electrical charge is applied, which can respond to different light and environmental conditions.
Currently, smart glass is an evolving technology, but it is hoped that in the future it can be used to control levels of privacy, offering a more flexible working environment. It can also be used to help regulate heat and lighting sources, reducing the reliance on fuel consumption and creating a more intuitive and comfortable working environment.
Hybrid workspaces
As the trend for hybrid and remote working continues to grow, we can expect to see offices evolving into more multifunctional spaces. Businesses may rethink the layout of their offices as there is less demand for desk space for everyday tasks that can be done from anywhere, and more demand for in-person and virtual meeting spaces.
Offices are set to focus more on the health and wellbeing of workers, with more access to green spaces such as roof gardens, and better equipped breakout spaces with comfortable seating areas and more homely touches.
More personalised workspaces
As employers become more aware of the benefits of creating comfortable and appealing workplaces, we can expect more attention to be paid to the individual experiences of workers. The advances in technology mean that creating a customised work environment is more possible than ever before.
We can expect to see innovations such as the ability for employees to customise lighting and temperature of their immediate environment to their individual preferences using digital controls.
Ergonomic furniture such as rise and fall desks that allow employees to switch between a sitting and standing position will also become standard features of office design, helping to mitigate the risk of musculoskeletal disorders, enhancing productivity and reducing sickness absences.
There will also be more consideration for the preferred work environment of employees, with quiet zones for those who dislike noisy environments, or need a distraction-free space to concentrate on detailed and complex projects.
More sustainable designs
Sustainability is more than just a current fad; it is necessary for ensuring the future of the planet for the upcoming generations. Future office designs will focus on energy efficiency and the incorporation of sustainable materials so that businesses can reduce their carbon footprint as well as their fuel costs.
The evolution of office design may not receive as much attention as other forms of interior design, but it reflects the broader societal changes of the 21st century. We can expect to see these innovations continue through the use of technology, to create more personalised and sustainable workplaces that are both functional and conducive to greater productivity.
