January 2023: The days of boring offices are over. With plans to make hybrid work underway, the ‘where’ of the day job has become less important than the ‘why’, and the onus is now on businesses to create a workplace worth leaving home for.
The right office design can support the way that you actually use your space day-to-day, boosting productivity and adding value to the business beyond the perks and annual leave listed in the job description.
It’s time to stop counting desks and instead focus on creating a unique environment that works for your team.
Adrian Buckle and Olivia Parson at Kitt Offices telll us how.
Canvas for values
With the great resignation (or reshuffle) still impacting businesses and their teams, the office has a role to foster a sense of belonging and reconnect people with their colleagues after two years spent apart.
Using your workspace as a canvas to showcase company values is a great way to make your team feel part of the wider mission. For example, agencies looking to facilitate creativity may focus less on desk numbers and instead look to build collaborative spaces where team members can come together and generate ideas.
At Kitt, we have a large collaborative area where everyone can get together and eat lunch on the days that we’re all in the office. This is one example of how space can encompass values and drive meaningful connections, but it will look different for every company because it’s unique to each brand and each team.
Client-friendly
Many industries have, over time, become incredibly brand-driven. Where in the past decisions may have been based on products and price points alone, businesses (with the help of social media) are now working harder to build trust and connection between consumers and their brand.
Intentionally-designed office space can be the magic wand that enhances that client experience. Whether this is creating a space to showcase your products, rooftop meeting areas or a mural to add a pop of colour, highlighting your company values and bringing your brand to life can set you apart from the competition.
Oatly are one of many companies that are putting this into practice. They wanted a hub that reflected the brand with a coffee-shop inspired design & bold product feature wall. They also included a diverse range of work zones and opted for a rooftop terrace to help bring their team together on the days spent in the office.