Since the COVID 19 health crisis, teleworking has increased dramatically and overnight, most employees found themselves working from home. As a result, the workspace has had to change and metamorphose to adapt to the new demands of the pandemic.
Many are preparing to return to work in 2021 and it is important to respect current work standards such as social distancing, the use of personal protective equipment and the importance of cleanliness and hygiene.
The office layout must conform to the various current health and environmental measures. How to choose furniture and arrange the different work spaces to ensure a smooth transition from teleworking to working at the office? What are the new trends to look out for in 2021?
The Open Space Concept
The concept of open space has gained significant popularity in recent years, as it promotes collaboration, cooperation and teamwork. The spacious appearance exudes a friendly atmosphere and promotes good communication. In fact, since the advent of the COVID-19 pandemic, the open space concept has gained popularity because of the advantages it offers in terms of respecting physical and social distancing.
The appearance differs depending on the type of office and the sector of activity, but some concepts fit perfectly with open space. For example, industrial design is eye-catching because it allows natural light to penetrate, which promotes a warm atmosphere and enhances the various objects on display. For newly built offices, large windows and alternating styles of metal and wood can work perfectly.
There is also a new trend that is part of the concept of sustainability in design, which consists of merging nature in the workplace (a tree in the middle of the office, an installation of plants on an office wall, etc.). The use of minimalist and modern office furniture is another trendy office idea. If you need some inspiration, our accessories can help you design your space differently.
Acoustic comfort, a reality that shouldn’t be overlooked!
It is possible to work effectively in an open space provided that companies have made every effort to reduce the inherent acoustic discomfort. Some methods are useful, such as adding acoustic panels, ceiling tiles or acoustic chairs. Their installation requires the intervention of an interior systems contractor.
More than ever, the main objective of professional office design in 2021 will be to offer real acoustic comfort to its employees. The office furniture sector is evolving to reduce noise levels in open spaces.
Respecting the environment
Adopting a more consumer-conscious behavior for the design of corporate offices through the reuse of existing office furniture and furniture recycling is also a popular trend for 2021.
Tons of furniture are thrown away every year, and in addition to recycling, another method of getting around this over-purchasing and waste is to rent office furniture. We are living in an era where global warming is a serious issue and companies are starting to reduce their carbon footprint.
Employee safety shares the throne of today’s concerns with sustainability and eco-responsibility. The use of wood or natural materials that promote sustainable design or the use of renewable energy are two other alternatives to be considered in the same eco-responsible perspective.
The essential elements to adapt to these new changes are :
- Natural colors: beige, calm green, brown, etc.
- Natural materials and fabrics: wood, glass, cotton, linen, etc.
- Decoration that imitates natural landscapes
- Indoor plants
The importance of designing your office for mobility
We are witnessing the development of nomadic workspaces in all possible areas that allow itinerant and mobile functions, such as sales teams, to remain mobile without being obstructed in their activity. Many architects and workspace planners plan the layout of their clients’ offices to allow employees to move around.
The use of modular and mobile furniture can easily become part of the open space concept and adapt to the desired layout. Several types of furniture are concerned such as desks, chairs or mobile pedestals, but also removable partitions and moving walls. These elements allow you to quickly create a space that respects the rules of social distancing.
This is a useful method for safety, but also for the efficiency and performance of employees who feel more comfortable moving around when working. The Drop desk is another example of mobile furniture that fits perfectly in any work space.
A warm atmosphere at the office
The transition from teleworking to returning to the office can be difficult for some employees, hence the importance of creating a comfortable and familiar space that feels like home in the workplace.
Office design now aims to create informal work and exchange areas to allow for meetings and collaborations. The aim is to create a place where synergies are created, where new ideas and projects are born.
The Grow stool adapts perfectly to current trends while respecting the environment, as it is made of natural cork. Cold light grey interiors are an old thing, as employees find it difficult to feel stimulated in a space like this. To promote productivity and team spirit, the use of good materials, natural light and a classic design are essential for the design of your offices in 2021.
The creation of relaxation areas with individual seating provides employees with a furnished escape area thanks to high tables and comfortable furniture (sofas, armchairs, etc.). Games such as punching-ball, house plants and other accessories can be used to liven up the space. The Hubub side table is perfect for this type of space because it adds a vintage touch to your workplace.
The creation of relaxation areas to strengthen team spirit
Before the COVID-19 pandemic, recreational spaces with games such as pinball, air field hockey and pool tables were in vogue. However, with the new security measures in place, these spaces have no importance anymore and it is the design of spaces for relaxation and communication that has become imperative.
In order to allow employees to relax a little, access to the various office spaces must be facilitated. Opening up conference rooms or other rooms to allow employees to have an individual space to eat, rest and clear their minds has become an interesting alternative. Contractors choose comfortable tones and a subdued lighting scenario for these areas to encourage discussion and the exchange of ideas.
Mobile furniture can be moved around the office, so your leisure area can easily become a conference room and vice versa, thus optimizing the use of space. Our High Tide table is an ideal solution to adapt your workstations to the various types of use you desire.
Office design as a means of enhancing your company’s brand image
In 2021, more than ever before, companies are using office design as a marketing tool to strengthen their brand and attract new generations. Shapes and colors reflect the company’s brand image by using the same shades of their logo and graphic design to personalize spaces.
These office spaces are comfortable and usually consist of natural office furniture and comfortable seating to create informal spaces with easily modulated furniture. We are also witnessing the emergence of co-working spaces thanks to the layout of offices hosting start-ups or emerging company projects.
Whether for coworking spaces or large company rooms, the use of interesting patterns, high quality textiles and iconic decorative elements will add a touch of originality to your office.
Fashionable furniture and colors in 2021
According to Pantone, yellow and grey are the colors of 2021 because they transmit warmth and dependability. Other natural colors such as neutral beige, honey, grey-green and some bright color are also very popular this year.
You can favour the use of more neutral or basic shades for the paint and bet on colourful decorative items. Natural wood tables and minimalist furnishings are a very interesting option.
Cable management tools, useful compartments, height adjustments and even recessed outlets are all in high demand and make your daily work at the office more comfortable. Our electrical and USB connections can make it easy for you.
Lightweight, mobile and ergonomic chairs are also a must in professional office design, as workers spend entire days sitting down. You can browse our different chair categories to find the one that will satisfy your needs as well as our Fundamentals LX table which allows you to adjust its height according to your preference.
Features that summarize office furniture trends in 2021
To make sure you make the right choice when designing your workspace, certain criteria must be respected:
- Convenience: pay close attention to the physical and mental health of your employees.
- Adaptability and agility: favour the use of multifunctional furniture.
- Natural touch: add objects and furniture made of wood, ecological and real leather or cotton.
- Simplicity: get rid of heavy tables, empty cupboards and all useless objects.
- Conviviality: rely on soothing colors and creating spaces for relaxation.
If you need advice to design your workspace, Agence Aura is at your disposal and offers various solutions depending on your needs. You can contact us or browse our products online.