With every major world event, we see an impact on office design. We have been through crises before, this current pandemic being the most potent, where we really have to take a step back and move with a sense of urgency. Thermal scanners, plexiglass shields, and one-way hallways are now parts of the workplace, as concerns about coronavirus spread forced firms to retrofit spaces to bring workers back. These modifications are only a start.

Offices are reimagined for an uncertain future where health is the focus, even if Covid-19 is no longer a threat. So, what’s changed in the office open now? And how will the future Singapore office look and function differently?

Hybrid Spaces

While we still need to function with plexiglass dividers between workstations, there is a need for common grounds where collaboration is encouraged. These shared spaces also provide workers a sense of transparency and a venue for connection. We see a combination of semi-private cubicles and open spaces. 

Whether you are planning for a complete office renovation in Singapore, our designers will need to create spaces that give workers the freedom and flexibility to choose where they want to work and with whom.

Bringing the Outside In

The concept of allowing spaces to flow through between the natural setting and built environment is no stranger to office interior design. Biophilic design, sustainability, and the idea of the holistic well-being of employees are the future-proof core concepts that can be employed using strategic designing. 

While it seems to cover more space, it actually minimizes the need for large pantry spaces and provides a breather for employees. The natural ventilation it provides is also another reason to consider an open area accessible to the workstations. 

If outdoor spaces are not feasible, bringing in the “fractals” (patterns that occur in nature) can mediate the need for natural settings. 

Exposed Ceilings

We’ve seen it before in restaurants, hotels, and other commercial types, and exposed ceilings are feasible solutions to maximize space. If it is high enough, the freed-up room can accommodate a loft area for a quiet space or storage area. Exposed HVAC systems can be monochrome-colored, giving that modern vibe. The higher ceilings also give an office that “tech” and “creative ambiance. This is a practical option if you’re going for a full office renovation for your Singapore office. 

Mirrors

Mirrors in the entryway instantly brighten the space and serve as a transitional piece to highlight the transition from outdoors to indoors, in addition to allowing you to give your outfit a final touch-up as you exit your home. A large mirror opposite the dining table can completely transform a room’s atmosphere and make it feel less stuffy.

Mirrors that are angled against windows and balconies can add more natural light and greenery to a space. You can position it to reflect a specific focal point, such as a hallway, to add depth to the room, or you can position it to feature your favorite decorative pieces to maximize the joy they bring you. Our interior design office designers will determine the best design strategy for your space and nature of business. 

Interactive Walls

When paired with digital architecture, email, enterprise, and social media mobile messaging, physical architecture can create a highly efficient workspace. It also frees up the need for space-consuming marketing visuals that you need to physically set it up and update periodically. SORDC offers comprehensive office interior design services that cover innovative solutions for the Singapore office. 

Flexible Furniture

It’s also high time to update your furniture for your next office renovation. Modular, lightweight and multi-purpose office furniture that is easily configured is feasible for any type of office. Choose streamlined designs that can be easily assembled and are usually made by laminates, so you can still choose from a variety of designs. 

Semi-private Enclosures

Including semi-private enclosures can provide a spot for workers to sneak away and get work done without distractions. These type of furniture pieces reduces sound and get work done without distractions. These cubicles are designed to reduce sound but at the same time can easily spot an employee and carry out emergency meetings with other coworkers. 

The traditional cubicle has given way to hot desks or shared desks, and personal computers have given way to portable devices such as laptops. Make sure to provide designed spaces that accommodate these latest technological needs. 

Quiet Spaces

Aside from having a variety of workstations and flexible spaces, dedicate a quiet space without the distractions from clients, ringing phones, or operating xerox machines. 

Consider part of your team in a virtual/remote workspace

The importance of virtual databases and digital communication platforms has been highlighted by this pandemic—pre-pandemic initiatives such as going paperless and being open. Having employees work remotely greatly aided some businesses in adapting to on-and-off lockdowns and office restrictions.

If you’re considering an giving up the office space altogether or downsizing, you might as well consider converting paper files to computer file formats and uploading everything to the Cloud. Using web-based programs that give all employees easy access to company files and allow them to collaborate on a single file without having to be physically in the same place.

Note that these trends do not suit every organization. All offices are different and so as their employees. To achieve optional workspace data, designers analyze the data or interactions to come up with a more productive work environment that is tailored to your organizational goals. 

Studies have shown that open spaces actually decrease interaction by around 70% and that employees interact more within their teams. Another conclusion is that employees in solo stations produced better work and more efficiently. With these, it is critical to determine whether a hybrid space should be considered use of open space. 

Informed analytics is the key to maximizing space utilization. At SORDC, we study and understand how your space is actually being used instead of enforcing trends. More than just increasing the footprint, office utilization is important for any office interior design and renovation project. If you are looking for an office interior design services, a full office renovation service or even office reinstatement when giving up an old space, contact us.