Offices will never look the same after the pandemic has completely altered the way we work and live. While companies have committed to permanent remote working solutions, that does not mean that the office is dead.
This pandemic is accelerating a shift in the design and architecture of workplaces that were already taking place.
For starters, sustainability and well-being will become of the utmost importance in the office. Now more than ever, companies will be focused on how to keep their employees safe and healthy.
A new awareness of wellness will take over the workplace, and this goes beyond yoga classes and meditation rooms. Organizations will implement new air filtration systems to boost air flow, install UV lights to kill spread of virus’ and much more.
Additionally, advanced technology will be critical to keeping the workplace safe. This means touchless technology will be included in high-touch areas such as entryways, elevators, bathrooms and more.
Even more, corridors and common spaces will be designed with more space in mind as we become hypervigilant of our proximity to others.
Lastly and possibly the most important change will be the inclusion of flexibility in the workplace. According to Cushman & Wakefield’s “The Future of Workplace” report, offices of the future will consist of numerous locations and experiences, rather than one main headquarters.
Companies will adopt flexible offices in the suburbs and take up less real estate in major cities. This will be done in hopes of providing workers with a sense of community, without putting their health and safety at risk.
