You’re probably aware of how the ‘post Covid office’ has been a topic of conversation for many businesses over the last year, as has hybrid working.
But what may have surprised some is the popularity of the ‘hybrid’ approach, with many workers wanting to retain some working from home time.
Several surveys have shown that between 66 and 71 per cent of UK office workers want flexible remote working options to continue.
And as we shift from pandemic to endemic, many smart decision-makers are using the opportunity to redesign their office for hybrid working with the help of commercial refurbishment companies.
What are the considerations when designing a hybrid working office?
The first and most obvious things to ensure are in place are better amenities than those at home.
Faster, more reliable internet connections, better quality printing facilities, specialist office furniture and so on.
But assuming you’ve got all that covered, it’s worth drilling down into the specifics by talking to the users – your returning workers.
By surveying your staff, you may uncover something that you’d not previously considered a barrier to effective working.
Prioritise wellbeing
With mental health having been brought into sharp focus recently, more employers are recognising its importance at work.
By focusing on wellbeing when redesigning your office for hybrid workers, you’re likely to create a more welcoming environment.
This could include:
- Incorporating spaces that encourage time away from the screen, possibly for reading, exercise or meditation
- Introducing more greenery, either via plants or even a living wall, to add colour and oxygenate the space.
- Including informal spaces to encourage social interaction or eating together, to contrast the solitude felt by many during lockdown
- Considering the colour selection for different areas in terms of their impact on moods and productivity
And of course, plenty of research shows that natural light and ventilation improve worker moods. You can also achieve this with more natural light using glass wall partition systems.
Happier staff feel more cared for and encouraged to spend time in the office as well as retaining their home working lives.
Seamless tech
Zoom, Teams, Meet and so on – all platforms that are part of the working week now for so many.
But far from being seen as a stopgap that helped during lockdown, video conferencing technology should be a significant factor in your office redesign.
High quality video calls can often achieve as much as meeting in person, without the inconvenience or delays associated with travelling in.
So why not provide a space well insulated from external noise, with room for larger, high definition displays? A popular option are privacy pods. Privacy pods can seat a small number of people and offers a place to work sperate from the main office, increasing productivity.
By reducing the contrast between being in the office and working at home, you’ll also remove worker reticence to be in both environments as required.
Workspace Consultancy
Creating a welcoming space is essential in hybrid office design. The focus has shifted in recent years, away from lone desks and cubicles. Now, employees and businesses are benefiting hugely from a blend of individual working areas, meeting rooms and relaxation zones. Having the opportunity to choose where best to work can empower employees to work how they want.
Our workspace consultants can help you bring this into your own office. Using over 45 years of design experience we can recommend design features, colours and furniture. Our free consultation service can give you access to professional advice to help you see how office design will improve your employee- wellbeing, retention and boost productivity.
Ready to create your hybrid worker office?
Of course the needs of your business shouldn’t be forgotten when accommodating hybrid working.
But happier, more productive staff and lower rents due to reduced footprints are all benefits to seriously consider.
To talk about the possibilities of hybrid working with one of our design professionals, please get in touch today.