office design – The Horton Standard

It seems like everything has changed this year, including the spaces we work in. While some continue to work remotely, others have headed back to their place of employment.

Businesses have adapted to the changing times, implementing new protocols to keep their employees healthy at the office. However, all of this leads to the question:

How will office design trends change?

With two new commercial build projects happening in 2021, we’re excited to create office and retail spaces for a diverse range of tenants, all the while keeping in mind function and safety.

Below are some ways we expect commercial design to change:

Layout

An open office design is popular among many companies. An open layout uses floorspace more efficiently than multiple walls and doors, but it also means people are working closer together.

Some designers believe the open office layout will begin to fade, though others disagree.

“There’s a lot of benefit to spending time near daylight and fresh air, and an open plan facilitates that,” said Kevin Van Den Wymelenbery, Director of the Institute for Health in the Built Environment.

Those who want to keep the open feel, ensuring there is ample space between workspaces is a great place to start. Another option is to install glass walls or tall plexiglass dividers to help create separate work areas.

Airflow

No matter the layout, airflow is one of the most critical factors of new commercial space design. With the right HVAC system, increased outdoor airflow and filtered air improve indoor air quality for all. Rather than circulating air in the room, new systems will pull exhaled air out of the room and push in filtered air.

Surface Finishes

Construction materials, especially those used for shared surface area, may also begin to change. Germ-resistant materials that prevent the growth of viruses, bacteria, and mold can help stop the spread of all infectious diseases. In addition, touchless technology will continue to see a rise for doors, elevators, and bathroom fixtures.

As we get ready to work with client for these new spaces, we’re excited to incorporate new design trends to make every space functional and safe for all!

Most people spend more time at the office than their own home throughout the week. When moving into a new office, think beyond cubicles and desks so that you and your employees can be productive in an inspiring and comfortable atmosphere.

In our commercial projects, Horton Group continues to work closely with a range of business owners to design and build their dream offices. At our current commercial development, 350 Goose Lane Office Park, we have built offices for large national corporations, small business owners, and everything in between.

Below are six tips for creating a productive office space, no matter what industry you work in.

Ask for Employee Input

Ask your employees what their dream office would look like. You won’t be able to incorporate all of their ideas, but if you find out that 90% of the people working for you would utilize standing desks, for example, you can determine how to fit a couple into your office space.

When employees are given the opportunity to set up their own workspace, they have more satisfaction and better performance at work compared to employees who have no control over their environment.

Traffic flow

Utilizing the space efficiently is essential no matter what size office you have. Consider how people will move from work areas to meeting rooms, the bathroom, and kitchen areas. Keeping these common areas clear of clutter makes it much easier to move around the office. Traffic flow is especially important if you have customers or patients coming in and out of the office all day.

Don’t Neglect the Basics: Lighting, Noise, and Temperature

We’ve all been uncomfortable or distracted while on the job. The more you can eliminate small annoyances, the better. This means paying attention to lighting, noise, and temperature in the office.

Natural light is ideal, but not always possible. In spaces without windows, opt for overhead lighting options that mimic natural light. Unnecessary noise at work can decrease productivity and increase headaches. Ask your builder or contractor what can be done to eliminate noise from other offices. Finally, make sure the temperature can be easily controlled in the office.

Variety of Workspaces

A variety of workspace options is essential in increasing productivity. Some parts of the day may require an independent work station where people can tune out the rest of the office and tackle important phone calls or deadlines. Other times employees may need to connect with coworkers in a collaborative meeting area or a step into a quiet room to decompress. By incorporating numerous spaces to work in, people can move around throughout the day and tailor the space to their work needs.

Greenspace

Whenever possible, incorporate green space. A beautifully landscaped property can include an additional workspace in good weather. The benefits of green space for employees include increased job satisfaction and decreased stress.

Plan for Growth

As a business owner, chances are you have a 1, 5, and 10-year plan. Will the office you are creating today be able to hold your vision for the future? Take into consideration the fact that you will expand, leaving some wiggle room for reorganization.

Tag: office design

Office Design Trends for 2021