As we approach the one-year anniversary of the Coronavirus lockdown, you may be rethinking your office design post-covid. This week, many states across America are witnessing the lifting of restrictions coinciding with mass vaccination efforts. The CDC and other health agencies warn and strongly urge that even once fully vaccinated, that social distancing measures be maintained. This includes frequent hand washing, the wearing of proper masks, and maintaining a safe distance. So, while the stress of pivoting to a remote workplace is lessened and you’re anxious to get the team back together in the office, some modifications are still necessary.
Amazon, the leader in just about everything, shows us how to incorporate collaborative areas and flexible spaces at their second headquarters (HQ2) in Arlington, VA. Their plans for the workplace post-covid allows for employees, as well as the community, to share a “campus” of green space, dog runs, retail, and restaurants. “Design gives us the opportunity to transform and reshape the workplace into a healthier and more purposeful experience,” says Robert Mankin, partner of NBBJ, the global architecture firm behind the plan, which was unveiled earlier this month.
Be Flexible When Rethinking Your Office Design Post-Covid
Remote work has certainly helped many get through this trying year, but it may not be for every employee… or employer. It is extremely likely that a large majority of companies will adopt a hybrid environment. This concept allows productive desk work to be completed sans the commute, along with vital collaboration time to resume in the office. The ability to meet with teammates is not only important to productivity but personal well-being. Just about all of us have experienced some degree of isolation since March of 2020. For most, our health, both physical and mental, has suffered. The simple acts of a morning routine, chatting with coworkers, and changing up your scenery will provide your brain (and body) with healthy stimuli.
If your office warrants modifications to safely allow employees to return, consider flexible solutions. Building walls and permanent separation is costly and time-consuming. As a result of the pandemic, modular walls, glass partitions, and various other forms of separation are available on the market. The myriad of solutions available can provide employees with a sense of safety. Utilizing adaptive solutions allows your company to easily redesign spaces as needed.
Add Some Natural Comfort
For years, office design trends typically displayed clean lines, elaborate materials, and more recently, a minimalistic approach. After a year of working in slippers from the couch, or back porch, incorporating the comforts of home will welcome staffers back and make time in the office more enjoyable. As you make changes to your layout, be sure to consider your office’s natural lighting. Remove or reposition and furniture that may be obstructing windows… we’ve all heard by now the importance of vitamin D as well as the feel-good effect from seeing some sunshine. With ample natural light, why not add some greenery? There are a variety of plants that thrive in an office setting. Take it a step further and use a “green wall” where you need division.
Consult With Professionals
Let the experience and knowledge of others work for your benefit. We’ve helped dozens of clients navigate these new waters in various degrees from simple additions of desk dividers to downsizing square footage to swapping old furniture for new. We can help find budget-friendly solutions for whatever office furniture needs you may have as well as share our network of professionals. We’re here to help, give us a call at 678-360-8708 or message us today.
