A trend that X-Furniture is pioneering locally is the concept of the fully integrated hybrid office , where furniture such as seating doubles as storage space , hyperadjustable desks , and the merger of the lounge and canteen environment in many office buildings . Canteens are in use for a very small portion of the day only . Due to so many people continuing to work from home , it is a logical next step that these spaces be reconceptualised . should have more collaborative furniture solutions and fewer traditional desks and chairs .
The hybrid model provides a better work-life balance , the chance to work without in-office distractions , and avoiding long commutes to promote wellness . Inoffice , employees require ergonomic workstations and furniture so they can
adjust based on their personal needs . Choice and control increase employee satisfaction and comfort . Workplace features like biophilic design reduce stress and provide a sense of employee well-being .
If a company has all remote workers , fostering a company culture is tricky . In the hybrid model , the physical office space is vital . Having a physical space inside the office to connect and develop team and mentoring relationships is important not only to individual growth , but also to an organisation ’ s long-term culture .
“ Steer away from the regular furniture designs that have been on the market for years ,” stresses Burger . Hybrid offices need spaces and furniture that look welcoming and make employees want to come to the office . Look for innovative furniture arrangements that integrate furniture and technology . The goal is to tailor the furniture , technology , and features of the office to employee needs and the culture of the organisation .
KEY COMPONENTS OF THE WELL-INTEGRATED OFFICE :
Open Plan Open plan offices foster team spirit and create a social space as opposed to a closed-off individual space . Frequent sharing of ideas is common as people just speak across the room rather than having to organise formal meetings . When teams are working together it is good to have everyone in the same room to get things done as productively as possible .
Meeting Areas Meeting rooms play a crucial role in any firm . A fully equipped conferencing room can provide a great environment for top class discussion and learning . It is a common belief that meeting rooms need to be spacious as a comfortable environment breeds creativity .
Breakout Spaces A well-designed employee breakout area is a common zone that can serve many purposes . It provides a space for informal catch ups and meetings , a space for grabbing a bite to eat at lunch , somewhere to meet and greet visitors and , importantly , an area where employees can relax away from their workspace and relieve stress .
Training Areas A training room is one of the most important things when it comes to an office . Several offices do not have a training room attached to their company and have to hire one . Its importance is considerable as training is really important for the growth of employees .
X-Furniture Contact Conrad Burger , MD Phone : + 27 82 559 6847 Email : conrad @ burgint . co . za Web : www . burgint . co . za
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