How To Design A Workspace That Employees Actually Want To Work From

Since the onset of the pandemic, the UK has seen a dramatic shift towards remote working, with a significant portion of the workforce continuing to operate from their home workspace. According to The Wales Institute of Social and Economic Research and Data, only 1.5% of workers reported to mainly working from home 40 years ago – a figure which barely shifted to 4.7% in 2019. Five years on, and more than half of us spend at least some of our working time away from a centralised workplace.

And employees a reluctant to give up this new Covid-enforced benefit. The absence of a daily commute, reduced transportation costs, and the comfort of working in a familiar environment are just some of the realised benefits. Employees have grown accustomed to the flexibility and reduced stress that come with home offices, making the idea of returning to a traditional workplace less appealing.

Why Employers Want Employees Back In The Office

Despite the popularity of remote working for employees, many employers are eager to see their staff return to the office. Offices represent significant investments, and many business leaders are keen on maximising their use. More than just physical spaces, offices are viewed as hubs of productivity where the visibility of staff enhances managerial effectiveness. They are also crucial for fostering mentorship, collaboration, and a shared corporate culture—elements that are sometimes diluted in remote settings.

Designing An Inviting Workspace

To entice employees back to the office, businesses must rethink their workspace designs, transforming them into environments that rival the comfort and convenience of home. Here’s how companies can make their workspaces places where employees genuinely want to be:

Foster Collaboration And Concentration

A modern workspace should balance areas for team collaboration with zones dedicated to solitary, focused work. This can be achieved through modular layouts that can be easily reconfigured according to the needs of the moment. Soundproofing elements and secluded nooks can mimic the quietness of a home, catering to tasks requiring deep thought or concentration.

Enhance Social And Leisure Areas

Enhancing social spaces within the office can dramatically increase its appeal. Comfortable seating areas, cafeterias with high-quality food options, and leisure zones can encourage informal interactions and relaxation breaks. Offering complimentary amenities such as quality tea, coffee, and healthy snacks can further replicate the comforts of home.

Upgrade Facilities And Technology

Investing in high-quality, ergonomic furniture and the latest technology can make a significant difference in how an office is perceived. From high-speed internet to state-of-the-art meeting rooms equipped with advanced AV systems, these upgrades can provide a seamless and efficient working environment that outmatches home setups.

Focus On Wellbeing

Introducing wellbeing initiatives such as gym memberships, wellness programs, and better climate control can make the office a more attractive place to work. These elements not only enhance the physical comfort of the workspace but also show a company’s commitment to its employees’ health and wellbeing.

The Critical Role Of Workplace Interior Design

Today, it’s not just about offering a job; it’s about offering an experience. With more job opportunities allowing for remote or flexible work arrangements, companies that require office presence must ensure that their workspaces offer more than just a desk and a computer. The office environment must be so compelling that it becomes a key differentiator, making the prospect of working from an office more appealing than remote alternatives.

In industries where the competition for highly skilled professionals is fierce, and there are more jobs than available talent, the workspace itself can be a crucial factor in a potential employee’s decision-making process. A well-designed office can communicate a company’s culture, values, and priorities. It can suggest that the employer values innovation, collaboration, and the well-being of its staff, thereby making a strong case for choosing an office-based job over a remote one.

The challenge lies in creating an office environment that exceeds the benefits of a home office. This means designing spaces that facilitate not just work, but enhance well-being, foster social connections, and stimulate creativity and innovation. Employers need to consider how the physical environment can impact productivity, satisfaction, and overall employee happiness.

Effective office interior design must be strategic, integrating technology seamlessly and ensuring that the workspace is adaptable to various working styles and activities. From ergonomic furniture to biophilic elements that bring nature indoors, every aspect of design must be geared towards creating an inviting and stimulating environment.

Invest In The Carrot, Not The Stick

In the current climate, the approach to bringing employees back to the office should focus more on attraction than compulsion. Designing a workspace that employees are genuinely excited to return to can foster a more productive, engaging, and committed workforce. By creating an office that equates to the comforts and conveniences of home, businesses can ensure their spaces are utilised effectively and appreciated by their staff, making the investment in physical office spaces worthwhile.