by Director of A+D Strategies, Kimball Office
At the present time all eyes are on the Bay Area. Companies across the United States and Europe are studying the corporate models of technology companies headquartered in Silicon Valley. A new workplace is emerging. Strongly influenced by new technology, a start-up mentality, and the introduction of a new workforce: the millennials; the workplace is experiencing a transformation not seen since the introduction of the cubicle in the 1960s.When I joined the workforce twenty five years ago going to work meant that I would execute my tasks at a designated desk with a landline phone and a personal computer. Fast forward to the present, my role as Director of A+D Strategies for Kimball Office is 100 percent mobile. Now going to work for me is a “State of Mind”; it is not defined by a desk or space. As long as I have connectivity, I am able to do my work.Similarly, the new workplace requires a more agile environment with diverse spaces that allow end users to connect. The introduction of the “benching” solution taught us that “one size does not fit all”. And while benching might be suitable for some groups, other tasks require a more focused, heads down environment.
Technology.
Having the right infrastructure to support an agile environment is key.
Diversity and Agility.
Today’s workplace needs to be agile and diverse. While collaborative environments create an engaging and dynamic environment, studies have identified the need for heads down space that allows end users to better focus. Furniture no longer creates the space, it helps support the work mode.
Sense of Community.
The new workplace is comprised of a series of neighborhoods creating a sense of community. People want to feel engaged and have a sense of belonging. Therefore, providing a series of zones or neighborhoods can help address the different work modes.
Sense of Connection.
No matter the scale of the project, small or large, connecting and engaging the workforce has become essential. Open and exposed stairs linking floors create a sense of continuity or extension. Incorporating communal spaces (café, town plaza, a lounge area, etc.) encourages people to leave their neighborhood and engage with colleagues.
Sustainability.
Sustainability is no longer considered a trend, it is a way of life that will continue to be a focus for clients and designers.
Humanity.
The workplace is becoming more people centric, and softer. Residential and hospitality design has had a strong influence in the new workplace. Clients are also providing new services that makes it easier for people to go to work, i.e. daycare for working parents. Larger corporations provide free cafeteria food run by chefs, dry cleaning facilities, and yoga classes.
Furniture.
The difference with furniture in today’s workplace is that it no longer defines the space, but, rather, supports it. Furniture is used to deliver collaboration, engage the community, and allow people to do their work their way.United Interiors invites you to visit one of our showrooms in Woodland Hills, Los Angeles, or Irvine and experience today’s workplace.
FURNISHING ENVIRONMENTS THAT WORK.
For more information schedule an appointment.
[button size=” color=” background_color=” font_size=” line_height=” font_style=’normal’ font_weight=’900′ text=’SCHEDULE ‘ link=’https://uiinteriors.com/wordpress/index.php/contact/’ target=’_self’]