In this post, Align Studio focuses on activity-based spaces in the workplace. Only a percentage of an office user’s time is spent at a desk, the rest of the day is spent engaging with colleagues or clients in various activities. We want to ensure they can transition effortlessly from one task to another whilst supporting health, comfort, flexibility, and ease of use. Below we explore some typical office related tasks and how to enhance the user’s experience:
01. Focused Me-Work
Workstations that support individual tasks
Workstations are designed to offer ease of connectivity (wireless internet connection and tabletop power supply), reduce visual and noise distractions (acoustic screens) and support health (ergonomic chair, monitor with monitor arm to reduce neck strain, the option of height adjustable working surface to allow work to be done seated or standing) will greatly improve the wellness, temperament, and productivity of users.
02. Team Work
Creative or Problem-solving work
Increasing “mental space” also increases the likelihood of creative/divergent thoughts. Mental space can be enhanced by mobility or freedom of movement, though views of the outside world, “blank-page” space to explore ideas such as a mobile TV stand & white-board. It can also be improved with lower lighting and low background noise, similar to the atmosphere in a cafe, which relaxes the mind and unlocks creative thinking used for problem-solving, while rounded meeting tables focus energy towards the centre or problem at hand.
03. Client Meetings
Create a welcoming and comfortable Work Lounges to receive clients
Work lounges have become very popular, often providing plug-and-play solutions built into furnishings. Lounge seating with low tables and mobile TV stands for presentations.
Privacy Booths are also a popular choice for meeting with clients, offering some privacy (reducing visual and noise distractions) and focusing everyone’s attention. There is space for a TV monitor for presentations, plug-and-play solutions making meetings productive, whilst at the same time comfortable.
04. Networking
Breakaway spaces that support social interaction within a company
Incorporating relax areas into a floor plan that allows employees to take a mental break, also offers the benefit of spontaneous collaboration and interaction that strengths internal relationships and ultimately a company’s culture, Such areas can be near coffee stations, outdoors or even an employee canteen. Bar counter height tables with high seating are usually favoured to keep interactions short but engaging (people tend to be closer together).
04. Technology
Getting the Optimum use of space and resources
The worker has been freed from his/her desk by mobile technology and wireless connectivity. This change allows companies to have fewer workstation than employees. Plug-and-play or air-charge power sets can be incorporated into a variety of furnishings and spaces, allows employees to easily connect and work from anywhere in the building.
By Nushke Klopper
Align Studio
