It's reality. In the work environment workspaces are getting smaller, real estate is shrinking and all of this translates into cost savings for owners. So many of the office environments that I space plan and design for have lowered the square footage needed for each employee. More collaborative or group spaces are being created to encourage a shared environment. These new work environments promote collaborative meetings among employees rather than being isolated at their desks.
We can even take this philosophy one step further with the term "alternative work strategies." Allowing or encouraging employees to work anywhere they want. A study sponsored by Steelcase Inc. and Coronet Global confirm that most companies have formalized one of these strategies and only 14% say that they do not have one in place and are not planning on implementing one this year.
The residential design world has even caught on. Restoration Hardware has just released a special issue magazine of Big Style Small Spaces, "We heard you. One size just doesn't fit all." They have scaled down their collection to fit smaller spaces.
And speaking of spaces getting smaller, I will soon be going from 1,850 sq. ft. to about 575 sq. ft. So stay tuned for more of that transformation!
Photos from www.Steelcase.com
I am involved in revamping some of our offices and we are doing exactly the things you describe. Mobile technology means we are all able to collaborate in shared spaces rather than being chained to desks. There is also the capacity for what I have dubbed 'in-corridor collaboration' where you're suddenly grabbed by someone and your iPad means you have work workstation tucked under your arm.
ReplyDeleteI wish I had an ounce of your talent! Even if I don't always have time to comment, your blog is one I always turn to for inspiration.
So good to hear that more and more companies are following this direction. I think it makes for a more productive and happier work place.
DeleteAnd thank you for such a nice compliment! So glad you visit LiveLove&Repeat!