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How can we create workplace destinations – places people look forward to and enjoy spending time in each day? As we reflect upon recent trends and look to the coming year, we’re considering the qualities that now define the best modern workplaces. In this month’s news aggregate, explore three key elements that are raising the bar for office design and will continue to do so in 2018.
As employees are tasked with solving increasingly complex business challenges, unique spaces that help spark ideas are fast-becoming a necessity for forward-thinking companies.
In a roundup of high-profile organizations like PayPal, LinkedIn and Adobe, Business Insider shares a range of artistic office details: murals created by locals and staff, speakeasies and pop culture-inspired rooms are just a few stimulating features. Interior Design highlights the Vans California headquarters, designed to feel like an indoor skate park. With a few unpainted walls, the intentionally-incomplete look conveys the idea of a blank canvas that evolves over time. Facebook’s vibrant New York offices also embody this concept, with an eclectic aesthetic purposefully designed to be a work in progress.
Beyond thought-provoking interiors, cutting-edge workplace architecture is also gaining steam. Geekwire discusses Amazon’s futuristic Seattle office: plans for the 17-story structure include an “urban treehouse” theme with a central staircase that stimulates the ladder in a childhood treehouse. Whether outside or in, companies are realizing the value of creative spaces for stimulating innovation.
We recently explored the role of workplace flexibility & choice on our blog, and we expect these aspects to be even more important next year. With shifting candidate expectations, Facility Executive suggests the agile workforce model will be a key trend for 2018. Workplace Insight notes that a significant percentage of candidates have turned down a position without flexible work options.
The benefits are clear: Raconteur examines how a variety of environments with collaboration chairs and office sofas better supports today’s mobile work patterns, enhances productivity and uses space efficiently. Moreover, Fast Company mentions how versatile settings that promote movement can foster experimentation, empathy and risk taking.
Forbes explains the importance of “integrated multi-function design” noting that people need a range of private and communal options to accommodate diverse activities. Curated areas that support a range of tasks – from social connection to casual collaboration or focused, solo work – are now essential.
Workplace wellbeing is a rising consideration for organizations around the world – and for good reason: Workplace Insight cites research indicating that 45 million work days in the UK are lost due to stress and other mental health concerns. Corporate Wellness Magazine recommends a focus on many types of wellbeing – physical, mental, emotional and social and more – and promotes ergonomic settings, outdoor workspaces, quiet rooms and mindfulness classes.
Employers are taking note: Bloomberg explores Microsoft’s plans for a multi-billion-dollar office overhaul, which involve an open-air plaza for 8,000-12,000 people, green areas, sports facilities and running and walking trails. Meanwhile, Business Insider highlights how people unwind at top companies, including swimming laps, meditation and board games.
In a discussion of companies that made Glassdoor’s list of Best Places To Work in 2018, Forbes mentions a positive culture, empowered employees and an emphasis on professional development. With these qualities in mind, organizations that focus on worker wellbeing, offer opportunities for flexibility and incorporate creative inspirations are all techniques to create a more meaningful employee experience. Thoughtfully integrating these aspects will help companies succeed in 2018.
Here’s to a Happy New Year!
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