Traditionally, most of us have spent a lot of time in the workplace. The COVID-19 pandemic forced many organizations to shut their office doors and send their employees home to work. Post-pandemic workspaces will certainly be different than in the past but community and the benefits of being together in person will still make them an important pillar of collaboration, attraction, retention and performance.
Based on research by HOK, the future of workplace design (spaces) should be focused on the six C's: Concentrating, Communing, Creating, Congregating, Contemplating and Connecting.
Let's take a quick look at each of these:
Concentrating – We typically refer to this space as "heads down" where we are doing our focused work – you know those task that need to be done each and everyday. As you know this is where we see workstations and offices – but there are other options for us to consider, including small conference room or shelters that allow us to focus and get work done.
Communing – This space is sometimes referred to as a common space or 3rd space when you go and work but you are surrounded by others doing there work as well. A café or lounge area a perfect examples of this type of space. You have a lot options when designing this area for large common tables to small lounge settings – be sure to provide a variety of options for people to choose form.
Creating – Creativity is important to all businesses and industries, not just ours! In designing a creative space, be sure embrace designs and products that fuel creativity. This is a great opportunity to include fun products with bright colors and unique features all to fuel our creative brain!
Congregating – Sometimes referred to collaboration, these are spaces that encourage people to gather, meet and collaborate on a project or as a team. These spaces should allow ample space to work together and include collaboration tools like whiteboards. Be sure to consider the environment and create a space that encourages collaboration with limited distractions.
Contemplating – This is about providing a space for employees to think, refresh and reset. We've all been there. Things happen and we just need a minute to be mindful and reset. These spaces can be for individuals or small groups and are typically small intimate spaces that have an organic feel to them to help inspire – this space is a perfect location for biophilia to be included.
Connecting – This is about providing a social space for employees to gather and connect. These are typically found in low-traffic areas and should be filled with warm inviting colors and products that encourage connecting with each other.
The optimal balance or blend of these spaces should be determined by the goals, workstyles and culture of each organization. Understanding these 'Cs' and the purpose of different space types will help you to make smart, confident and successful decisions for your next workplace.
