Offices have been among some of the hardest hit buildings over the past year. In order to accommodate workers throughout the pandemic, they have been forced to make major changes.
Architecture firm Gensler’s recently released design trends forecast indicates that many of the transformations that have occurred in recent months will continue to play a role long into the future.
One of the key trends that has emerged is the hybrid work concept, which allows employees to work both from home and in the office.
“This is an opportunity to reimagine how much space is required, how many people are going to be there, why are they there, and how can we design a place that allows them to come together in a safe way but really do their best work,” said Janet Pogue McLaurin, global workplace research leader at Gensler.
From an architectural perspective, workplaces that implement agility and flexibility will come out on top. According to McLaurin, using new design elements like rolling dividers and movable walls can make it easy for offices to accommodate both private and collaborative work environments.
Ensuring that there are spaces within the office that engages all work styles will be crucial moving forward.
Additionally, Gensler’s surveys have found that some of the top desires workers have for their workplace are health and well-being related. This includes fitness facilities, outdoor spaces and access to health and childcare services.
