Workplace Evolution – stepping into 2024

From flexible work arrangements and wellness initiatives, to professional development opportunities, prioritising the overall experience of employees is seeing companies foster a more positive and productive work environment. This in turn differentiates themselves as employers of choice in a dynamic and ever-evolving business landscape.

To fully achieve this, there must be investment in the retooling of leaders, giving them a clear structure with which to lead and advise teams effectively. Creating team ‘norms’ and culture that is intentional and transparent will support the implementation of a consistent workplace experience for everyone.

Moreover, workplace design is seeing a remarkable fusion of the natural world with the built environment. A growing emphasis on incorporating nature, biophilic design principles are taking centre stage, where lush greenery, natural lighting, and sustainable materials seamlessly integrate with modern architecture. A workspace that embraces the coexistence of nature and technology has become a hallmark of innovative and forward-thinking office designs, creating an environment that is functional and conducive to inspiration and creativity, all while enhancing employee wellbeing and productivity.

Neurodiversity in design is also gaining traction. This principle promotes universal or inclusive design that benefits everyone, regardless of their cognitive or sensory abilities. Recognising and celebrating the natural variation in neurological abilities and cognitive functioning among individuals, designers are thinking beyond the “average” user and are reimagining office space. These inclusive and accessible designs accommodate different neurological profiles, such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and more, for the benefit of all.

Video conferencing, project management software, and communication apps are supporting the hybrid workforce. Integrated Workplace Management Systems (IWMS) tools better understand space and usage, sensor tools measure utilisation and the introduction of AI into the decision-making process all support flexible working.

However, one-size-doesn’t-fit-all. There remains a return-to-office pushback from employees that challenges leadership. We believe choices demand structure to ensure the impact on people and the place of work is the right one for the individual, the team and the organisation as a whole.  This “structured choice” (read our article) helps formalise working styles and ensure a workplace is efficiently used.

Spaces are also being opened up to the community to expand the brand, increase utilisation of collaborative spaces, and to offset operational expenses. The prevalence of flexible work solutions has underpinned this pivot and we can only see the changing use of workspaces grow.

There is increasing interest in sustainable office practices. The circular economy – and more pertinently here, the circular workplace – designs out waste and retains the maximum possible value of resources.  From our perspective, this includes eco-friendly building materials, energy-efficient designs, waste reduction programmes, furniture re-use and upcycling strategies and the integration of renewable energy sources. Green certifications and environmental responsibility have become key selling points for many businesses. Attaining accreditation at a building level is also on the rise including WELL, Fitwell and LEED.