If 2020 taught us one thing, it was how to adapt, and quickly. With an environment both at home and in the workplace that none of us could have predicted, the constant upheaval of new announcements kept us on our toes. Perhaps the most notable changes of the whole year were the closure of schools and the directive that we must all work from home unless it was absolutely impossible to do so. As such, a fundamental change in behaviour occurred. At the time, it was thought to be a temporary solution to a problem that would be fixed but as time has passed, we have seen that this change looks set to stay.
Of course, the danger to being in close proximity to one another will fade in the not-too-distant future, however, there have been plenty of benefits realised as a result of this difficult time. In the past, working from home was only fully embraced by certain companies. However, now others have seen just how it can positively impact work-life balance, productivity and employee engagement, it is likely that it will remain as an option for the foreseeable.
The multiple surveys and research conducted have shown that for the most part, both employees and employers would like to see a hybrid of working at home and from the office as coming together gives different benefits. Collaborative working, creative output and innovation can be better achieved when people come together physically. So how do you achieve this blend of home and office-based work? Many companies will be considering changing locations entirely to either increase or reduce space or indeed have a better environment to suit modern ways of working. But in this day and age, there is really no need to relocate – you can simply innovate instead. But how? Office refurbishment is the best way, and with so many options available, you can create an incredible space for your teams, including:
A brand-new layout
When working there day in, day out, it might be hard to visualise what can be achieved in your workplace. So using expert companies such as DL with fresh eyes and over 45 years of experience in this field will give you new ideas on how better to use your space. Desks can be reconfigured to give distance, break out areas can be installed or relocated, an improved flow of traffic through the office can be implemented – there are many smaller changes that can be made which will have a big effect. And if you want something more dramatic to give you extra space, take a look at the mezzanine floors we can add into your office.
Glass partitioning
It is also feasible to install partitioning within your office, effectively meaning you can turn different into enclosed offices, meeting rooms and so on. The use of glass partitioning will allow for a light and airy space and comes in a range of sleek designs. These are perfect to also minimise noise, protect against smoke and fire and offer a cost-effective way to create dedicated working areas.
Partitioning can also come in the form of screens for desks. Not only can screens be used to allow privacy and increase productivity, they can now be used to prevent the spread of harmful bacteria. Even in ‘normal’ times, these could be beneficial as we all know how illnesses can spread through teams! There are many options of screens available, including glass-made screens in order that people don’t feel isolated or ‘hemmed in’, which could negatively impact their mindset.
Folding partition walls
The increased need for flexibility can seem like an issue, however there are options such as folding partition walls available. These will give you the option of having enclosed spaces or open plan offices depending on your daily needs. Sub-divide different areas in a range of different finishes such as melamine, glass or even writable wall panels for times when you need a large board for ideas.
There really should be very little need for you to relocate when there are so many options to innovate instead. Just get in touch with us and we’ll talk you through the options.