The way we view the workplace has been redefined immeasurably in the past two years. Once viewed as just an office (where interior design wasn’t necessarily a priority), we have now assessed and re-assessed the essentials of what makes a workplace a more functional and more productive space. Companies all around the world are continuing to change the way they use their office space, especially as Big Tech has entered the real estate market due to booming developments over the last few years of the COVID-19 pandemic.
While we have a clearer idea of what has worked in 2021, we can adapt in 2022 to create healthy and productive workspaces, continually informed by the changing needs of the workforce and industry. Office design will always evolve as markets change and as new expectations arise, lending both form and function to the future of commercial interior design.
Design Considerations for 2022
Trends have changed significantly since the beginning of 2020. Efficiency, function, and comfort are key elements in the future of office design. These office trends can be used to update workspaces and further drive productivity for your employees — let’s take a closer look at the future of office design.
1. Sustainability
Sustainability in a workspace focuses on using recyclable materials and green energy and has become a lifestyle that echoes into everyday life. As more businesses implement sustainable habits, it has a heavy influence on the way we approach design, construction, and property sectors in the future to help address climate change. Being eco-friendly in the workspace takes thoughtful considerations in ensuring your purchases and operations do not negatively impact the environment.
Designing with sustainably sourced materials relates not only to your office furniture, but includes the flooring, fabrics, and finishes used as well. It’s best to work with a design partner so they can recommend which products to use, and help reduce your carbon footprint when sourcing your furniture and materials.
There are a few ways to build your office with sustainable practices in mind. Taking advantage of natural lighting, switching to LED lighting for fixtures, incorporating passive ventilation, and choosing low-emission materials are all ways to implement sustainable design and signal your commitment to the environment to your employees and clients.
2. Comfort
After extended periods of working from home, people have grown accustomed to comfort as a part of their workday. Natural light, softer colors, and comfortable furniture help emulate the joys of working at home that can encourage productivity and create a more enjoyable work environment.
Past office design trends might have been more focused on ergonomics and space efficiency, but 2022 might be more accommodating to those who found better arrangements for their workflow that were discovered in the WFH life.
To bring more comfort and home aspects to the office, you can include comfortable seating, warmer lighting, curtains, indoor plants, and provide outdoor seating if available. The truth is that 45% of teleworkers are working from their couches, or even in bed, so providing comfortable lounge-style furniture is a great option for those who require a break from a traditional desk.
3. Hybrid Working and Flexibility
Being stuck in one room all day was enough of a battle during the pandemic. As we move back into the office, creating more options for employees based on their work style can help them thrive. Some prefer a busier open-style setting, while others may still enjoy having a designated desk. Repurposing formal conference rooms, cafe areas, and casual areas with comfortable furniture for open work environments can potentially improve cooperation and efficiency in the office.
4. Biophilic Design
Biophilic design focuses on incorporating elements of nature throughout your workspace. Regardless of whether you have access to any outdoor space, there are still ways to implement biophilic design into every office.
No longer is there a need for rows of desks, or harsh, artificial lighting. Using elements such as wood, stone, water features, fish tanks, plants, and any designs that mimic nature can add to a natural and calming atmosphere. It doesn’t stop at the design alone — biophilic design has been shown to reduce stress, improve focus, aid in creativity, and help with overall wellbeing.
By incorporating more plants in the workplace, you can improve indoor air quality due to plants producing oxygen and using the carbon dioxide emitted by everyone in the office to thrive. They transpire through their leaves, providing humidity that combats dry air, which often tends to be an issue in air-conditioned workplaces.
Updating Your Office for the Future
T2B Commercial Interiors recognizes that all of these trends being thoughtfully considered in your office reflects on your business, and sends an impressive message about your social consciousness and that you care about the well-being of your colleagues.
With a broad range of knowledge and experience, our designers can help maximize the efficiency of your space, inspire creativity, improve safety, and more. Our designers work with state-of-the-art software and provide you with CET design and renderings to help you understand the design vision and provide valuable input early in the process. Big budget or small; new space or renovated space; office, school, hospital, or retail, we have designers with the right experience to meet your needs.
Contact us today to learn how our designers can meet your needs and build a positive work experience for you and your staff.