The dawn of the 21st century has brought about a lot of changes. Advances in technology, economics, and the sciences have considerably changed how people live. Every sphere of human life has been touched by the movement of time and has led people to adapt their ways in how they interact with each other, conduct their daily lives, and even with the way they work and do business.
Working Well
Over the years, the definition of working in the office has also changed. With the changing lifestyles, aspirations and ideas of how work should be conducted, people now put more emphasis on workspaces.
The modern workplace can no longer be the way it was 30 years ago. Aside from the advent of modern technological innovations, design aesthetics now also play a vital role in making the workplace a more conducive place to work.
A well-designed office is now a boon to employees and employers alike. Company owners now put stock in making the fundamental architecture and office interior design work for the overall well-being of workers. As they say, happy workers equal better productivity.
Aside from boosting morale and creating a culture of wellness, a well-planned office improves efficiency, reduces wastage, and contributes to the growth of both employees and the business. Of course, imaginative and incredible office interior designs can also help put a company’s best foot forward, and impress clients and guests.
If you’re thinking of creating, improving, or fitting out an office this year, here are some helpful interior design trends that you should take note of:
1. Biophilic Designs
Biophilia is defined in Edward O. Wilson’s book Biophilia as the “urge to affiliate with other forms” of life. In the past decades, numerous office buildings were constructed as concrete, windowless boxes that has led to a disconnect between people and nature. They are generally sensory-deprived with inadequate exposure to natural light, ventilation, vegetation, and natural views, shapes and forms.
According to the “Godfather of Biophilia” Dr. Stephen Kellert, there are six basic biophilic design elements mentioned in his book Dimensions, Elements, and Attributes of Biophilic Design:
● Environmental features
Involves the use of recognizable characteristics of nature such as color, water, air (natural ventilation), sunlight, plants, animals (e.g. aquariums), natural materials, views and vistas, façade greening, geology and landscape, habitats and ecosystems, and fire (e.g. heating).
● Natural shapes and forms
Representations and simulations of the natural world such as botanical motifs, tree and columnar supports, animal (mainly vertebrate) motifs, shells and spirals, egg-like and tubular forms, shapes resisting straight lines and right angles, and arches, vaults, and domes.
● Natural patterns and processes
Incorporation of properties found in nature such as sensory variability, complementary contrasts, dynamic balance and tension, transitional spaces and patterned wholes, among others.
● Light and Space
Design attributes that focus on qualities of light and spatial relationships like natural light, filtered and diffused light, light and shadow, reflected light, space as shape and form, spatial harmony, and inside-outside spaces, among others.
● Place-based relationships
Refers to the successful connection of culture with ecology in a geographical context such as the geographical, historical, ecological or cultural connection to a place, use of local or indigenous materials, and integration of culture and ecology, among others.
● Evolved human-nature relationships
Specifically focused on fundamental aspects of the inherent relationship of humans to nature that includes examples such as prospect and refuge, order and complexity and security and protection.
2. Unconventional Work Areas
This office design trend is highly preferred by millennials as it jives with their predilection for open spaces, collaborative work zones, and their fascination for the unusual.
The new generation of office tenants typically shuns closed-in cubicles or the ornate, heavy look of traditional offices. Usually, these spaces feature cool areas that facilitate interaction with co-workers and stimulate creativity.
Consider designs that offer comfort while working such as providing couches, bean bags, colorful walls, meditation zones, or even an indoor garden.
3. Dynamic Spaces
The word “dynamic” has been thrown around to define office spaces that can either be versatile, flexible, or multi-use.
A lot of progressive companies have invested in the careful analysis of interior design, fittings, and even colors to make sure that their employees achieve maximum productivity while keeping a life-work balance.
This calls for offices with avant-garde layouts and designs such as putting greens or climbing walls, “secret” conference rooms with revolving bookcases, or even an authentic jungle within the building.
Progressive companies also provide shower rooms, gyms, and recreational facilities for their employees, with cafes, food trucks and restaurants within the building’s immediate vicinity.
Designed for Success
When designing office spaces, creativity and imagination are key as well as a pure desire to provide for the health and well-being of the occupants.
A professional interior design and fit out company can ably translate your ideas to life with their years of experience and expertise. With your vision, your interior design partners can apply their proficient knowledge about the elements of interior design as well as in-depth know-how of the latest industry trends to come up with an office that is geared for comfort and success.
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