How Workspaces Are Changing to Meet Worker Needs

Just like most other aspects of work have drastically changed over past several decades, workspaces too have undergone serious shifts. Long gone are the days when office workers were doing their jobs from corner offices or in the solitude of a cubicle. That is not to say that such workspaces no longer exist, but they are definitely giving way to more modern and productive alternatives.

Nowadays, the focus is on productivity and mobility, which is why many people work “on the go”, choosing all sorts of places to work from. Naturally, not every job can be done remotely, but we are certainly witnessing the rise in the number of coworking facilities, home offices and coffee shops from where many people work. All the changes we’ve been experiencing are supposed to provide comfort and flexibility in the physical space a worker occupies.

Freedom is the key

Modern workers don’t want to feel trapped in their offices. They resent the sight of bland cubical offices, deprived of any sign of life. On the contrary, they want to feel free, inspired and motivated. Walls are broken down and if there are some barriers, they are usually made of glass, to allow at least some visual freedom. What’s more, such places also look much bigger if they are free from partitions.

Introduction of technology

No business can be run without the use of technology. At the pace it is developing, we have to be constantly in the loop with the latest trends if we want to remain competitive. Luckily, most of the technology we’re talking about is wireless, which means offices are no longer full of cords and wires protruding from the most unexpected parts of the room. Companies are providing just the basic technological support, but workers are invited to design their own workspaces in a way that will help them be more productive. Work stations need to feature all the tech essentials, depending on the job, and practicality is valued more than ever. For example, people like the option to wirelessly charge their gadgets from the table top.

It is more than just a workspace

Rec rooms are becoming increasingly popular, since workers want to relax and unwind while taking a break and not everyone has a park nearby to sit on a bench and chill. It’s unavoidable to have comfortable lounges where people can sit and have a chat with fellow co-workers. Alternatively, some companies have converted the roofs of their office buildings into a zone where people can hang out while taking a break from work. Such places usually have a lot of greenery, which helps workers improve their concentration and stay focused. While green roofs may not be an option for every company, some space should be designed to serve that purpose.

Is privacy forgotten?

You might think that with all that freedom and openness there is no privacy at the workplace, but that’s simply not true. We can’t expect every employee to be so extrovert to enjoy working in big, open spaces. Some people just need their own privacy and intimate space so that they can focus on their work completely. Also, some jobs require workers to work with as few distractions as possible. That’s why modern and functional office spaces feature quiet booths and private rooms.

Workers’ health is in focus

People are generally more concerned about their health than before. We all try to watch what and how much we eat, how much exercise we get and avoid places that are unhealthy. Since we are supposed to spend many hours in our office, it’s only logical that it should be comfortable and without any health hazards. The indoor air quality is closely monitored and so is the amount of natural light. Plants are brought in to make the space as natural as possible and furniture should be ergonomic, so that people don’t experience any physical inconvenience while working. The standards in this respect have become much higher and requirements more strict, but many companies even go a step further in their attempt to provide as enjoyable space for their employees as possible.

As you can see, the modern office is following in the footsteps of technological and other developments around us. Shrewd and responsible employers pay a lot of attention to this aspect of work, because they realise that the most valuable asset they have are their employees. That’s why they try to make them feel comfortable and satisfied at their workplace.