Constructing the Office of the Future: A Sustainable Community
Workplace design is not a one-for-all approach. It needs to be tailored to the functions of your work. An open layout environment does not meet the needs of employees dealing with sensitive information. Nor do offices with closed doors work when collaboration is critical. There are, however, several features that can be incorporated into any office to make it meet the needs of its current and future generations. Many professionals work remote at least one day per week. They have become used to the comforts of home and, in order to entice them back to the office, they want some of those comforts at the workplace. Millennials are now the largest labor force in the US. They want to ensure their employers are aligned with their strong beliefs in sustainability. Upcoming Gen Z’s are collaborators by nature. They thrive in environments built to support teamwork. The office of the future will be one that builds a Sustainable Community.
Key features of an office that is a Sustainable Community
Natural light
Features that allow natural light into even the most remote work areas include: large open windows, storefront glass as walls, transom windows, skylights.Flexible, easy to reconfigure, work spaces
Moveable walls to separate areas for smaller team meetings. Lightweight furniture that can be easily moved and reconfigured.Comfortable, home-like settings
Fireplaces, showers, bars/beer fridges, comfortable/plush furniture, nap areas.Collaborative environments
Small team meeting spaces that facilitate co-creation using white boards, technology, or other materials.Sustainably sourced materials
Promote environmental wellness by adding reclaimed wood for accent walls or ceilings, incorporating stone, live plants (including living walls or ceilings). Locally sourced is a plus.Outdoor working spaces
Take advantage of rooftop, balconies and outdoor patios to add more options for work spaces and meeting areas.Game/fitness rooms
Studies show sitting at a desk for long periods of time is not good for your employees’ well-being. Encourage movement and team building with gaming and/or fitness rooms.
As a contractor, we agree these elements are important and shouldn’t be an afterthought, or worse get cut because of budget reasons. Involving your contractor early in the design process helps ensure that by the time you get to construction there are no surprises.