Separator

How To Address The Current Changes In Design Trends And Functionality In The Corporate Workspace

Separator
An artist with travel instincts, Abhigyan is working from the age of 18 years in architect, and changing the dynamics of the different industries.

The basic principles of architecture have remained relatively unchanged over time. It is simple to gauge what environment people usually like, but some elements of design have to change to make people more productive, innovative, and interactive. This is especially needed in commercial and corporate workspaces. Business is something that goes on, no matter what. The trends in designing workspaces shift because, as we understand human behavior better and make technological advancements, designers need to keep the human comfort of the employees at the forefront. Even major companies are examining the needs and demands of the employees and are modifying workspaces to accommodate their best interest keeping in mind the organization's core objectives.

A major shift in corporate workspace design, even prior to the pandemic, has been creating a `homely atmosphere' in offices. An increase in the `digital nomad' culture has created a huge demand for comfortable spaces at work rather than the stereotypical cubical and drab environment of the traditional offices. This will have a direct consequence on workforce productivity and will encourage employees to engage better with their co-workers. Case in point, Innov8 located in DLF Cyberhub Gurugram addresses this trend. By doubling down on the use of pop-culture motifs such as Mario, we used wall decals that resonate a casual vibe. Typography with words likes "hustle" and "radiance" has been strategically placed throughout to boost morale and create inspiring spaces. Open office spaces, spacious conference rooms with vintage posters, and a common room furnished with bright couches and vibrant cushions add to the feeling of comfort to the office. It is crucial to redesign office spaces with a homely vibe in the post-covid19 era, to ensure a smooth transition from the `Work-from-home' culture that has been widely observed globally.

One can also see more edgy design language being incorporated in workspaces lately. Sleek lines and modern finishes provide a chic look in the office


Directing the current changes in design trends and functionality in the corporate workspace, there is a revival of open spaces in recent years. They encourage better interactions among colleagues and the use of alternate methods of working like standing desks are shown to boost innovation and increase the level of activity. Open spaces are even profitable - the square foot per employee is reduced, thus making this an attractive choice for designers as well as business owners. However, they do have limitations, one such being a lack of privacy. So, the office of Housing.com addresses both these issues by installing private booths while having an open office concept. Moreover, we have also added green walls indoors which bring a sense of freshness and add to sustainable design elements.

Another aspect that defines the recent developments in workspace trends is creating value within space. As the price of real estate is soaring, employers want to make the best of the limited space they have. Additional supporting spaces along with the core working spaces have to be combined to make an office complete. Therefore, office spaces have to be used for multiple purposes. Gone are the days of bulky computers mounted on desks, and immovable furniture that throws your back out as you try to move it. Therefore we have started incorporating modular design in modern workplaces. The Uber Office has installed chairs with wheels and lightweight furniture while underscoring the values of simplicity and minimalism. As trends are focused on making workspaces more user-friendly and human-centric, such dynamic workspaces will continue to be the norm.

One can also see more edgy design language being incorporated in workspaces lately. Sleek lines and modern finishes provide a chic look in the office. Solid walls are now replaced with glass walls. It serves as a literal and metaphorical symbol of being open and communicative with peers and clients. It also breaks traditional notions of an office being monotonous and dull. Entry-level employees are also able to see their managers, which makes them feel more connected with the entire office. Vehere has adopted this exact strategy - where we installed glass walls instead of solid colored walls, in the cabins to the conference room.

Aesthetically speaking, when interior designers use the word monochromatic, the context is different from our understanding of the concept. This recent burst of color - or the lack of it, has dominated office spaces for a few years now. Designers use the entire shade spectrum of the chosen color, peppering in small uses of it throughout the office. The color saturation draws in people to the office and makes it less of an eyesore to work there, even if it is sitting in one place. In Digivaasi, we made the space at hand more accessible by using the colour orange as a monochrome. An accent wall is central to the office. We also used quirky graffiti and drawings on the walls to make it even more attractive.

The conversation moving forward needs to highlight the real value that the workplace provides for an organization. All these trends barely scratch the surface of addressing the changes in the trends seen in corporate offices. However, you cannot ignore the rise of keeping the needs and wants of the employees in the center. Offices are built to attract a pool of talented professionals and boost the morale of existing employees. There is an increasing number of office managers looking to adapt to these trends, even if it is motivated to maintain the energy and zest of employees. Bringing the concepts of above mentioned relevant design trends into the discussion and utilizing the resources and tools available to today's companies will continue to move the evolution of the workplace as a deciding factor in business success.