Attracting and retaining quality talent will always be a high priority for growing businesses. Many factors contribute to this goal, but workplace design is arguably one of the most important reasons why top-level talent decides to stick around.
We all know some trends (good and bad) survived the 80’s but office furniture clearly isn’t one of them. Old and outdated workplace design sends the wrong message to prospective talent. Here are a few new design trends for 2020 that are worth implementing in your workplace.
Flexible Spaces
Multi-functional workspaces are nothing new and are considered a necessity in the modern office. Economic and technology conditions largely influenced the push towards a more flexible office, but as the mobile workforce continues grows at an alarming pace, the trend has become a reality.
Flexible workspaces in the office are now the new normal. Workplaces will continue to see a push towards multi-functional furniture that can shift and adapt to a dynamic workforce.
Natural Woods
Natural wood finishes and furniture are making a comeback in workplace design. Millennials are the number one driving factor for the resurgence. Now the largest workforce in the country, Millenials want to see employers focusing on sustainability. Businesses have no choice but to listen.
We should see more traditional products come in wood options, but unique applications will also become popular. Wood dividers, frames, accent pieces, and live-edge pieces will dominate the office landscape. Wood also aligns with a push to be more residential while giving space a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Bold Sustainability
As businesses embrace and perfect sustainable practices within the workplace, forward-thinking employers are taking it one step further with bold sustainable designs. The sustainable movement is diversifying materials and applications in amazing new ways.
We expect to see many new green products dominate the floorplan this year. It will no longer take a back seat in the breakroom. Expect to see sustainability on display in reception, conference, community and private office spaces. The sustainable office movement is definitely here to stay, which is good for the environment and employees.
Residential Vibe
This year we will continue to see the line blurred between work and home. Rebelling against the cubicle farms of yesterday, designers are bringing in a more residential vibe into the workplace.
Also known as domesticated workplaces, designers are adding apartment-like touches including furnished kitchens, sofas and lounge seating, throw pillows, area rugs, and even potted plants.
Now that you’ve heard our BOLD predictions for the workplace, we’d love to hear yours. Our goal is to gain a deeper understanding of workplace design and provide you with products and services that help shape the workplace of the future. Feel free to drop a comment below or contact us personally to explore trends in your workplace.