Moving Spaces: What to Consider When Investing in a New Commercial Office

While remote work has become more common in the last year, it has become very clear that the traditional workplace is here to stay. In fact, in terms of culture building, creative collaboration, team morale, productivity, and efficiency, the increase in remote work has reminded us all just how critical the traditional office really is.
But there will be changes. For instance, at Working Spaces we believe the hybrid, office-home model, is here to stay. A few days at the office and few days working from home can be good for all. There is also an increased need to make the office more inviting and creative than ever before. It needs to be a place where employees want to come. A place that inspires and brings out their best work. And, of course, post-pandemic, it needs to be a place where employees feel healthy and safe.

With these developments, here are key issues to keep top of mind when investing in a new commercial office.
Emphasis on Open Spaces and Air Circulation

Open, well-ventilated spaces with high air quality help reduce the risks of sickness spreading in your office. As your ventilation system or natural ventilation replaces the air, it prevents high concentrations of viral aerosols from collecting. Not to mention, fresh air is a general health boon that helps employees feel better and concentrate on the task at hand.

Using an open office format also comes with other benefits, such as fostering a more sociable environment. Compared to isolated cubicles, an open floor plan invites conversation, collaboration, and cooperation. Architectural solutions such as moveable walls can also help employees by offering flexibility in their workstation set-up. As an official dealer of Maars Living Walls, we offer an array of demountable walls, glass partitions and panels in a wide variety of finishes and customizations. No other movable walls really compare.
Deep Workstations

While the open office is a major innovation, it’s not complete on its own. Workers need to see and talk to each other, but they also need spaces to delve into their work without distractions. Making sure that your employees have the facilities to work uninterrupted at length helps to overcome the weakness of an open office.
Overall, it’s necessary to be flexible and give employees autonomy. However, autonomy as a right doesn’t mean anything if your working space doesn’t actually have a variety of unique spaces to accommodate that philosophy.
Competitive Amenities

A gym, cafe, and other amenities can be major quality of life improvements for your employees. They’re wonderful places to spend breaks or relax before or after the workday. It’s often difficult to find the energy to visit the gym after work, and this sort of service eliminates these sorts of obstacles and provides an overall healthier environment for your employees.

Here at Working Spaces, we’re your Culture Architects; experts on what makes an office more than just a building. Get in touch to learn more about furnishing an office that suits your culture and goals.