Since the pandemic, many of us have reconsidered how and where we work best. For some, it's early mornings at home; for others, it's the collaborative energy of the office. The future of work won’t return to pre-pandemic norms but will blend remote and in-person work to create a new workplace ecosystem that supports different tasks in different spaces.
Drafting services Queenstown, Queenstown residential architects, Residential architects Queenstown, Commercial architects Queenstown, Wanaka architects, Architectural design Wanaka, Drafting services Wanaka, Residential architects Wanaka, Sustainable architecture Wanaka,
Architects Invercargill, Architectural design Invercargill, Drafting services Invercargill, Invercargill residential architects, Commercial architects Invercargill, Sustainable architecture Invercargill, Architects Queenstown, Architectural design Queenstown, Architects Alexandra, Architectural design Alexandra, Drafting services Alexandra, Residential architects Alexandra, Architects Cromwell, Architectural design Cromwell, Drafting services Cromwell, Residential architects Cromwell, Central Otago architects, Sustainable architecture Central Otago, Drafting services Central Otago, Commercial architects Central Otago, Architectural planning Queenstown, Custom home architects Queenstown, House extensions Invercargill, Modern architecture Queenstown, New builds architects Invercargill, Rural architects Wanaka, Architectural drafting Queenstown,
Flexibility and the Hybrid Work Model
Even before COVID-19, many Kiwi companies weren’t operating in the office 100% of the time. The pandemic accelerated this trend, pushing businesses towards hybrid work models. Now, the office serves as an anchor, supporting collaboration, building relationships, and nurturing company culture while remote work remains valuable for focused tasks.
The Office’s Evolving Role
Offices continue to play a critical role in collaboration and fostering company culture. Global and local research shows that people rank teamwork as the primary reason for being in the office. Younger generations appreciate the office for career growth opportunities, while leaders see it as a hub for reinforcing shared goals and values.
Curating the Right Mix
Kiwi businesses must balance autonomy with collaboration, experimenting with various models to find what works best. By combining flexible policies, technology, and physical spaces, companies can craft a workplace ecosystem that fosters both productivity and well-being in this new era of work.
Designing a building for the new workplace involves creating a flexible, adaptable, and people-centric environment that supports both in-person and remote work. Here’s our guide on how to design such a space:
Flexibility: Design spaces that can easily adapt to changing work needs. Use movable walls and modular furniture to allow for quick reconfigurations, supporting both collaborative work and individual focus.
Well-being: Prioritise employee health by incorporating natural elements such as ample daylight, plants, and access to outdoor spaces. Use eco-friendly, non-toxic materials and ensure proper ventilation to create a healthier environment.
Collaboration: Create open-plan areas and communal spaces that encourage team collaboration and social interaction. Breakout spaces and informal meeting zones should promote spontaneous conversations and creative discussions.
Technology Integration: Equip the office with advanced technology to support hybrid work. Ensure meeting rooms are set up for virtual and in-person collaboration, with video conferencing tools, wireless connectivity, and tech-ready furniture.
Focus Areas: Provide quiet zones or soundproof pods where employees can concentrate on individual tasks. Use acoustic design to minimise distractions and create an environment conducive to deep work.
Coworking & Third Spaces: Incorporate coworking-style areas and informal "third spaces" like cafés, lounges, or outdoor terraces. These flexible spaces allow employees to choose where they work based on their tasks and preferences.
Sustainability: Design the building with sustainability in mind, using energy-efficient systems, solar panels, water-saving measures and eco-friendly materials.
Culture & Community: Design spaces that reflect the company’s culture, with areas for town halls, celebrations, and cultural events. Ensure the building integrates with local amenities and fosters a sense of community.
Accessibility: Ensure that the building is inclusive and accessible to all, with wheelchair access, visual and auditory aids, and ergonomically designed workstations. Provide spaces that cater to diverse needs, such as wellness rooms and gender-neutral bathrooms.
At 27acres, we can assist you in creating flexible, engaging workplaces designed for modern needs. Spaces that prioritise well-being, incorporate natural elements and smart technology to support both hybrid work and focus areas. Let us help you design a workspace that inspires and empowers your team!
Comentarios