'Coffee shop feel' is a game changer for work places
"We want a new modern look" is a phrase uttered numerous times by those seeking direction for their office space. But what is that new modern look? And how does it function in day to day activities of our offices?
The general trends of the office environment have shifted and are now more focused on providing a welcoming and collaborative environment.
The days of the tall panels and big private offices are gone and replaced with open plan, benching style stations, collaboration rooms, teaming areas, and even standing height desks and conference tables.
Cubicles are still a prominent feature and a necessary evil for most offices and corporate needs; however they now have a softer more inviting feel, with lower panel heights, glass dividers, and an open plan layout where teams can be placed together so they are able to visually and verbally communicate with each other without having to leave their desk. This sleek new style helps create an inviting atmosphere that is overall lighter and brighter.
Metal file cabinets are becoming another component of a bygone era. Companies are going paperless, and everything is now stored on the cloud or available via Internet, so there's no need to have a physical copy anymore, and less of a need for storage for those items.
The "coffee-shop feel" has been a game changer for meetings in the workplace.
There are very few large boardroom table requests these days; they have been replaced with requests for soft seating and collaboration areas.
These areas invite small teams to brainstorm together or serve as a think space for an individual needing some privacy. Large conference rooms are now multipurpose, and their furniture is mobile and flexible to reflect that. Tables are now smaller and mobile and may be set up in a variety of layouts depending on the need.
Color has also played a large role in the changing workplace environment.
Whether its in textiles like the fabric on chairs or in the paint on the walls its no longer taboo to step outside of the beige paint and black fabric box. Complex tones of gray, or muted hues mixed with some bright accents are helping to bring some life back into the office.
You may have heard that "sitting is the new smoking." Requests are at an all-time high for height adjustable work stations as well as standing height desks and tables.
Whether its your daily workstation that is height adjustable or a nearby collaboration area that has a standing height table, manufacturers are launching new products frequently to meet these demands.
Your office environment affects not only your productivity but your health as well.
We at Villa Park Office Equipment can help you navigate the changes you'd like to see around your office environment.
• Tamie Jilka, sales & marketing and Sharon Heyde, design & sales, from Villa Park Office Equipment.