Post-COVID Workspaces

Today’s workforce looks drastically different than the state it was left in in March 2020. Companies across the United States are making plans to bring workers back to the office and experts forecast big office changes in the near future. But these changes must benefit both on-site and remote team members.

A recent survey by KayoCloud, a real estate technology platform, found that more than 80% of companies envision a hybrid work model where employees work from the office three days a week. Keeping that in mind, workplace design must now take both full-time WFH and hybrid employees into consideration, as leaders expect the same level of participation from each type of worker. So, how do we create an environment that benefits both parties? To start, you may need to adopt a new workstyle and alter your office to fit the demands of this hybrid landscape.

Hot Desks

Also referred to as hoteling workstations, “hot desking” refers to the work style in which individual desks are no longer assigned to a specific person. Typically, this system utilizes a reservation process or are taken on a first-come, first-serve basis. This highly flexible system allows seating to differ on a day-to-day basis as separate groups come and go throughout the office — perfect for hybrid circumstances.

Hot desk arrangement using Teknion Zones Work Tables

Unreserved desks and seating with Traditional Space Fractals from Studio TK

Interpret Line from Teknion

Zoom Rooms: A Modern Conference Room

In some circumstances, companies are still asking face-to-face workers to continue using their laptops during video call meetings. This way, remote workers can visibly see and interact with every present member on the Zoom screen as if they were attending the meeting in person. To accommodate this new conference style, many companies are renovating and upgrading current conference rooms to feature ground-breaking technology such as multiple screens, screen sharing capabilities, digital whiteboards, 360-degree cameras, microphones, and high-quality speakers.

JSI Conference Room configuration with Collective Conference Table and Garvey R5 Swivel Seating

Modern Conference Room utilizing a Low Oval Meeting from Teknion’s Audience Collection

Meeting Space using the C+D Conference Table from Teknion

Videoconferencing Booths

What was primarily used for traditional voice calls and privacy, phone booths are transitioning into the perfect space for Zoom calls. With built-in screens, privacy features, and controllable light levels, you’ll be sure to have the best video call setup.

Layout with Privacy on Demand (POD) by Teknion

Private meeting space provided by Obeya from You+ by OFS

As businesses return to the office and employees continue to evolve the way in which they prefer to work, office designs will continue to change over time. Luckily, the OfficeWorks team will be staying on top of the trends, so you don’t have to. Whether your business is headed back to the office full-time or is starting off with a hybrid work style, our team is trained to help you develop a plan catered to your business and team. Give your team the space they need and deserve — let’s work together.