Article

Four formulas for future-proof office design

Businesses need to consider four different zones when designing a modern office space in order to cater to increasingly popular hybrid working arrangements.

September 02, 2022

What comes to mind when you think of the ideal office? The answer is likely quite different from that of 24 months ago.

As we adjust to the office environment post-pandemic, important conversations and critical thinking surround every facet of the workplace, including office design. To understand how businesses can fully harness new opportunities, we spoke to Project Manager Maeve Keating of JLL NZ’s Project and Development Services team.

An office’s layout plays an integral role in fostering innovation, collaboration and culture. It’s a decision that shouldn’t be overlooked in a company’s overall strategy.

From consulting and capital management to design and construction, JLL brings a lifecycle perspective to every project. “We transform the places where people live, work and play to help clients realise their broader business objectives,” says Keating.

Informed by best practice, workplace data and industry-leading expertise, JLL delivers commercial office fit-outs globally with a demonstrated record of adding real value to clients.

The Four Cs

To create an engaging and productive office a workplace should be designed to enable success. Contemporary layouts today are designed with agility and flexibility principles front of mind. Businesses should consider four types of zones when designing an office space in order to cater to increasingly embraced hybrid working styles.

Concentrate
These are zones where a high level of attention to detail is required such as designated spaces to focus, respond, reflect and develop ideas. Teams should have the choice of a workstation cluster with adjustable desks, a nearby touchdown bench and semi-private areas.

Celebrate
An area to disconnect from the core business and tasks to present, share and gather in a social setting space.

Collaborate
A mix of formal and informal meeting spaces to connect with colleagues, teams and clients to co-create, mingle, ideate and play.

Connect
Informal meeting areas for small groups to gather and collaborate. Soft furnishings like sofas and lounge chairs can make breakout spaces more inviting.