Reclaim the Office

Hybrid work has become a game-changer. Some companies are embracing smaller office spaces in order to increase job satisfaction and reduce employee turnover, meanwhile government directives are mandating workers return to the office, so how can we still deliver impactful solutions amid all this change? This article explores creating flexible, hybrid, and sensory-friendly workspaces that maximise productivity and comfort with some great examples you can experience in our Melbourne Studio.

BY HOW. GROUP

PUBLISHED August 22, 2024

Hybrid-Ready Work Environments

Research by PWC and Prof. Nicholas Bloom from Stanford University, shows that hybrid work is a win-win for both companies and workers, reducing employee turnover by 35%, with employees valuing hybrid arrangements as equivalent to an 8% pay-rise.

However, this model presents a challenge in how we design and furnish our office spaces. The strong trend shows the most popular days are Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. While this has led to an interesting acronym and some lovely traffic flow on Fridays, it raises the question: how can companies optimise their office spaces for fluctuating occupancy levels? HOW has the answers - balance, change, and choice.

Facilitating Choice

Time spent in the office contributes to camaraderie, collaboration, mentorship and morale. Clever power integration is essential for supporting connection when workstations are scarce, and informal meeting spaces become necessary when the boardroom is fully booked. Many of our soft seating options, such as the Buddyhub by Pedrali and HOW’s own Space Lounge, include power integration options so that workers can plug in their laptop and work from the lounge while awaiting their next meeting.

Adding a simple, yet well designed, D-End table at the end of your row of workstations creates a versatile spot for impromptu collaboration - no need to fuss with HDMI cords or screen sharing. These solutions ensure that every day in the office is as productive as possible, no matter how many people are present.

Flexible Work Zones Creating Balance

As businesses adapt to the hybrid work model, many are downsizing their office spaces leading to a reduced need for traditional desk-based office furniture. While this sounds like a negative for a commercial furniture solutions company, this presents an opportunity to rethink how we approach office spaces. Adaptable spaces are key to making the most of smaller, more dynamic environments. For instance, the Argo Libro Table by Mara when combined with the Freedom Battery System from CMS Electracom allows for a moveable - yet powered foldout table. This setup allows a space to shift seamlessly from a workstation to a meeting room or even a stand-up event area.

Modular and moveable furniture not only maximises the current office space but also future-proofs the workspace for evolving needs. As the demands on office environments continue to change, these versatile pieces ensure that the office remains a functional and inviting space.

Human-Centric Spaces Supporting Change

With the ebb and flow of hybrid work schedules, creating a sensory-friendly environment is more important than ever. On busy days, effective acoustic solutions can ensure the office remains comfortable and balanced, preventing noise from becoming a distraction. Privacy is also crucial, with phone booths and meeting rooms providing spaces for focused work and confidential conversations. These sensory considerations help maintain a comfortable environment, regardless of how many people are in the office, making the space work for everyone, every day of the week.

Acoustic Solutions by Autex Acoustics such as their Cube Range and Lanes wall pannelling, locally manufactured and inspired by Melbourne’s inner-city laneways, offers a visually pleasing solution to quieten and balance office noise. Additionally, the Retreat Phone Booths from Australian company Squarebear offer a peaceful and private escape, designed with the human body in mind. The spacious design around the head allows for easier breathing, clearer thinking, and more focused work. Sitting flush to the ground with no step or floor base, these booths are accessible to everyone, and the rubber seal ensures no loss in acoustic properties.

Embracing flexible, hybrid, and sensory-friendly workspaces is essential in today’s evolving office landscape. At HOW Group, we're dedicated to helping businesses maximise their spaces, ensuring every workday is productive and comfortable, no matter the changes.