Office design has changed radically during the last few years. A perusal of recent startup companies reveals a whole host of changes, with many offices designed to attract a new type of workforce. There is a very real inter-office competition going on, from the introduction of lounge and kitchen facilities, giant flat-screen TVs, and even amusement machines to keep staff satisfied and socialised among their colleagues
There are similarities between the more progressive startups that make them the envy of those working in old style stuffy and antiquated offices. Here are some simple ideas for creating a fresh and dynamic feel for your staff.
Location: This is one of the most important aspects in making your company trendy and appealing, especially for younger employees. The first consideration is that the location should be conveniently accessed for staff and clients. An inner-city or urban hub environment close to quality restaurants and bars is a sure way to give employees a sense that there is life outside the office, and a chance to socialise with work friends. According to Ori Goshen, co-founder of Tawkon, “Having fast or takeaway options when there’s no time for breaks is perfect…having a drink after work is always a great way to create a social bonding experience.”
The open yet cosy office
In today’s digital world, many employees enjoy working remotely where they can feel cosy in their home office. An overwhelming trend in office design is the creation of establishments that feel like home and encourage in-house collaboration with colleagues. Even large office spaces will promote synergy if they are designed to feel small and intimate. A large company, for example, may house smaller conference rooms and meeting spaces for a few people only, encouraging dedicated teams working cooperatively.
Creating options between collaborative areas and quiet spaces gives employees the opportunity to choose social and creative areas or peaceful solitude, according to the needs of the task at hand. Common areas such as roof decks and coffee bars provide the opportunity for spontaneous collaboration. New office designs promote ‘cross-pollination’ between members of the workforce who may otherwise not cross paths. This results in a broader range of backgrounds and perspectives brought to the table, resulting in creative and inventive business ideas and solutions.
Larger companies housed in multiple locations can also socialise via video conference, where they can learn about progressive company news and strategies around the city or around the globe.
Perks drive the creative spark
A lot of time is spent at work, and stress relief is invaluable in releasing renewed interest and ideas. If an employee feels relaxed and comfortable in the work place, new ideas can flow as if unforced. It’s not unusual these days to come across an office environment housing comfortable chill-out areas, games rooms, and even pool or ping pong tables. The result will be comfortable conversations and a release of pressure. A happy employee is generally a much more productive member of the team.
Even desks are undergoing a transformation, with some companies installing ‘flying desks’ where staff can work sitting or standing, allowing a little more freedom of movement and alleviation of stuffiness or a feeling of being chained to the desk. Depending on the nature of the business, it can also be advantageous to have music playing, possibly offering employees the option to play their favourite tunes.
Eating for success
Another common factor in startup office trends is offering employees breakfast or lunch on a regular basis, possibly once per week. It’s also a good idea to keep the flow of coffee restocked and fresh, and provide a quality coffee machine for creating a premium brew. Food can be an extremely uniting factor in celebrating a new product, attainment of targets, or a staff members birthday, and is definitely one area of a productive office that should not be overlooked.