Every So Office
With flexible design, work is possible “anytime, anyplace, anywhere.”
Since as early as 10 years ago, Ace Hotel lobbies (the chain now was locations in 10 U.S. and U.K. cities) have attracted visitors— creatives, academics, writers and entrepreneurs—seeking space to work. “That should teach us about how to design a workplace,” said David Galullo, CEO of design firm Rapt Studio. In many new offices, mood lighting and cozy furniture have replaced conventional office fixtures. “You’d be hard-pressed to even call it out as an office,” said Galullo; although, “Good design is good design.”
When creating new workplaces, some businesses take cues not only from other offices or hotel lobbies, but also from outdoor spaces like parks and backyards. In 2018, Industrious, a co-working company with 85 locations, partnered with L.L. Bean as part of its “Be An Outsider at Work” campaign, which involved a temporary co-working space complete with a trailer-like container with transparent walls, free Wi-Fi, power hookups, and fresh air. In addition to being a marketing opportunity, the event was a chance to spread Industrious’ data-backed knowledge on the benefit of working outdoors. One of their surveys found that working outside improves mood, lowers stress levels, and makes the majority of workers happier and healthier. Still, the same people rarely work outside and spend very little time outside during the workday. While modern design is helping to create more friendly workplaces, it’s up to employers and employees to think outside the box when it comes to reimagining where we work.
Sources: Inc. (September 10, 2019) | Entrepreneur (July 18, 2018) | L.L.Bean (Be An Outsider at Work) | Image: Laura Pittaccio