07/27/2021

Workplace Design – An Agile Future

The Future of Workplace Design  – An Agile Reality 

Workplace design is constantly evolving however, few would argue that the rate at which the status quo is being challenged has never been so great. Recent Covid-restrictions and advice to “work from home” have a part to play however innovative technologies that enable people to work anywhere and at any time also catapults our workplaces forward to a new place.

Despite the recent shift to working from home, there is overwhelming agreement from Designers, Managers and Employees that the power of the office as a place for creativity, collaboration, and connectedness is clear and working in physical proximity to our team members is still where the best ideas and cultures are formed.

 

So what does the future of the workplace look like? 

Welcome to an agile reality. An agile workplace offers a flexible and productive environment where users have ultimate control and flexibility within the space and ability to adapt the space to their needs. Work is looked at as an activity rather than a place. The space is effective, flexible and efficient because it supports a dynamic rather than a static workforce.

Providing a workforce with the freedom to make individual choices spurs creativity and intuitiveness, helps generate fresh ideas, and improves productivity and communication across different functions.

*Agile Design at Wespac Launch Pad, featuring Bolon flooring throughout the space

 

The space within and agile workplace

Agile working combines efficient use of space with collaborative working and concentration. Agile working spaces typically include:

 

Focus space / Quiet zone 

Quiet spaces are vital to all agile workplaces. They offer privacy and quiet to perform work that is confidential or requires focus.

*CO Partners, featuring Bolon planks

*The Octagon, featuring Bolon in focus areas and meeting rooms

 

Open plan 

Open plan work spaces are great for communication and team projects as well as staff performing intensive computer-based work. Open plan spaces are a demonstration of efficient use of space however may not be ideal for focused work or sensitive conversations.

*Open-plan workspace at The National Bank of Canada, featuring Bolon flooring throughout

*Open-plan workspace at PDG in Melbourne, featuring Bolon Graphic Texture Black throughout the space

 

Break-out

Break-out areas fulfill an abundance of functions. Multi-purpose spaces are designed for informal meetings, brainstorming, relaxing. collaboration and eating.

*BOLON Studio Wing tiles feature in break-out spaces PEXA in Melbourne

 

Over-flow work areas

Over-flow work spaces accommodate workers who visit the office less frequently. These spaces are ideal for short-duration tasks and often incorporated into breakout zones.

AMP Melbourne, featuring Bolon flooring from the Elements Collection in over-flow work areas

*Boston Consulting Group, featuring Bolon flooring in over-flow work areas

 

Resources

Resources (copiers and printers, recycling stations, stationary storage and filing) and storage are vital cogs in the wheel of any workplace. The ideal location is close to teamwork areas but screened to reduce noise.

ATT, Perth featuring BOLON filing space

 

Innovative organisations such as Google and Unilever have adopted agile workplaces, with more global brands set to follow a similar approach.  Are agile workplaces a phase or the future of workplace design?

 

Support + Advice

Our team has decades of experience in all aspects of floor management. If you need advice or support on how to choose the right floor for your agile workplace, contact us.

 

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