The future of workplace design post-Covid-19
In 2020, discussion has arisen around the future of the workplace and how it will look post-Covid-19. With overwhelming agreement from Designers, Managers and Employees alike, 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.
Working from home has put employee wellbeing higher on the agenda, leading to more mindful design of spaces in the future. In an article published in The Australian, Studio Director at Bates Smart, Rachael McCarthy believes that rather than focused work areas, there will be renewed purpose in creating spaces such as breakouts and meeting rooms. She suggests a “more human workspace” may emerge, “where wellbeing and sustainability are rated highly and are reflected in the design and use of space”.
In a recent Indesign Webinar ‘The Changing Interior of Workplace’, Amanda Stanaway, Principal at Woods Bagot, agrees that while there are benefits to working remotely, to do so permanently sacrifices too much in terms of innovation and shared values. Stanaway commented that the office of the future will strengthen as a “culture club” for employees to come together and communicate as human beings. More mindful, more flexible and less of an impact on the environment.
Aligned with many of these opinions, the Bolon team in Australia and Southeast Asia shares their thoughts on how this period will change design in the future.
How do you think the current situation will shape design of workplaces in the future?
Written by: Fleur Robinson, Bolon Area Sales Manager (NSW & ACT)