As the dust settles and the holiday season ends, the winter weather starts to take a toll on everyone! Add in the fact that winter weather in Illinois seems to usually extend into the spring months and it can be downright discouraging. But it doesn’t have to be! The truth is that according to the EPA, American’s, on average, spend approximately 90 percent of their time indoors! This is a great reason to make your office environment comforting and inspiring! Commit to creating an environment in the new year that is not only functional but also incorporates elements of comfort and features that facilitate improved employee well-being!
Given the fact that employees’ mood and general satisfaction have a significant impact on the results of a company, it’s not surprising that employers are adapting their office spaces to promote better collaboration, communication, and team spirit to help motivate and stimulate their workforce. Here are the top office designs that are driving changes in 2023:
- Sustainability Just Feels Good
As a society, we are continuously becoming more aware of our impact on the environment, and this has filtered through to commercial workplaces. So, when making updates and improvements, sustainable materials should influence the purchasing decisions from the flooring type, to wallcoverings, and insulation. Maximize the space to incorporating natural lighting, and couple that with energy consumption reduction efforts. This could include upgrading lighting systems, HVAC systems, reducing or limiting water consumption, and reducing waste.
- Industrial Style Interiors Are In
Industrial office interior styles blend effortlessly with open plan concepts to create modern and eye-catching surroundings that employees will enjoy working in and ultimately thriving in. This can include iconic design elements such as exposed brick and pipes, large windows, wood, and metal as well as larger industrial ceiling pendant lights. These create comfortable, unassuming environments that blend beauty and functionality, while also being effective at a building a company brand.
- Bring Nature in Through Biophilic Design
Biophilic design has grown beyond its original plant origins. Modern biophilic design is a sharper focus on multisensory biophilic design. This includes the use of light, sounds, and scents from the natural world in order to improve employee’s well-being.
- Flexible Spaces
Modern office spaces allow employees to move around more freely and choose a specific working zone that adjusts with their changing needs throughout the day. This can include collaborative areas, quiet working zones, brainstorming areas and even areas for employees to socialize! The possibilities are endless, but what is important is that these areas evoke a sense of belonging amongst employees which in turn will increase positivity and productivity.
- Stay Connected Through Technology
Let’s face it, false video backgrounds are just not cutting it. In 2023 office spaces need to adapt to support the merging needs of flexible working! Modern office spaces should consider areas for video conference meetings with excellent audio and visual access, thereby ensuring that staff can stay connected whether working remotely or in the office environment.
Winters in Illinois can be harsh, but they don’t have to be unbearable with an amazing new office environment! All your employees will want to stay inside! Here at Omni Commercial Group, we always strive to ensure your commercial project’s needs are met. Contact us today to get started on your next office space!