The traditional office, once a bastion of structured cubicles and fixed spaces, is undergoing a radical transformation. This metamorphosis is propelled by a convergence of societal shifts, technological strides, and profound lessons drawn from the crucible of the Covid-19 pandemic. We spoke to Cachet Group’s Senior Designers, Sara Wills and Sue Redman, who unveiled the nuanced trends shaping the future of commercial design and construction for 2024.
MYOB office space. Image credit Lisbeth Grosmann.
Purpose Redefined
Once prioritising routine, task-oriented activities in a fixed locale, the office landscape has shifted dramatically in the post-Covid era. Now, individuals flock to the office not just for tasks but for the essence of social collaboration—spaces for innovation, mentoring, training, professional development, social events, and team building.
Currently, only a minority of workers still turn up to the office due to constraints in their home set-up, which is a trend poised to accelerate, says Redman.
“This minority will get larger in the future due to over-population, cost of living, urban density – people will have less ‘home’ space to work from home in so the office will serve that purpose but in a different way from what it currently does.”
Hybrid workspaces
The future office emerges as a hybrid, an amalgamation of diverse workspaces fostering creativity. A mosaic of fixed desks, collaborative spaces, tall leaners, sit-to-stands, lounges, cafes, and breakout areas redefines the norm.
“Breakout space used to be 20% of the office and now it’s 30% and potentially 50% in the future,” says Wills. “But if the business is really client-focused then it could be a more blended space (for example, a café and breakout space).”
The future workplace is focused heavily on social collaboration spaces that also cater to a range of working needs for staff and clients. End-user clients are now seeking multi-functional spaces, transcending the traditional 1:10 space ratio, emphasising adaptability and versatility.
This can mean space is multi-functional and can be used for training, town hall-type gatherings, and lectures.
“Some companies like to have a third party use their space as well. This is part of the WELL accreditation which isn’t adopted too much right now, but we will see a huge uptake of these sorts of accreditations in the future as corporations strive to meet and exceed their sustainability objectives.”
The FTI Sydney fit-out is light, bright and airy. Image credit: Alex Crews.
Inclusive design
The dawn of remote work underscored the significance of individual comfort and well-being. Inclusive design is now a focal point, moving beyond code requirements to create spaces that cater to diverse needs. Neurodivergent individuals, with varied working styles, are finding their place in the design narrative. Businesses are investing in decompression spaces, ensuring correct acoustics, lighting, and accessibility, recognising that varied working conditions amplify productivity.
“Remote working from home allowed people to be the most comfortable in their own space with their own way of working, making businesses realise the importance of inclusive design,” says Redman. “Code requirements already allow for accessible spaces to meet a range of needs where work-from-home set-ups might not, however, businesses are increasingly going above and beyond to accommodate and enhance the user experience at work to retain staff and encourage them into the office.”
Sustainability integration
Sustainability has transcended from a peripheral concern to a central theme in commercial design and construction. The demand for low carbon footprint, cradle-to-cradle lifecycles, and eco-focused design elements is now non-negotiable.
“Clients want products that are low carbon footprint, sustainable supply chains, low-VOC, and better-quality furniture to take through to other fit-outs (less new and more re-used or refurbished furniture).”
One example is the MMG fit-out, design and constructed by Cachet Group, where the client had existing Herman Miller furniture which was still of good quality. This furniture was adapted and re-used in the new fit-out.
Using the existing architecture of a space is another way designers are prioritising sustainability.
“For example, respecting the sun path and how it moves, reducing materials, building rooms off existing walls, and being mindful of heat loads.”
This follows a shift in mindset where clients expect sustainability principles to be part of the design.
“Clients are asking more often for accreditation pathways (WELL, GreenStar interiors) and in the future, more businesses will be seeking certifications,” says Redman. “Government organisations/large corporates with European strongholds will have more policies around the integration of eco-focused design elements.”
The MMG interior features curves and warm, rusty tones. Image credit: Lisbeth Grosmann
Technological advancements:
Smart technologies are optimising energy efficiency, fortifying security, and enhancing overall functionality in commercial office designs. Spaces are equipped to support the hybrid work model, ensuring smooth communication through tech-enabled focus rooms and designated areas for remote collaboration.
Wills says there will be a move to interactive whiteboards, electronic blinds for sunshade glare, circadian rhythm lighting (if working towards WELL accreditation), built-in power and connectivity in furniture, and a focus on not plugging into a fixed space, using more Wi-Fi enabled spaces to move around or power banks which are charged that you take with you.
Making spaces more inclusive for neurodivergent people will be another key focus.
“For example, with VR you can be in the same room but not in the same room, this can help a staff member deal with anxiety if they struggle to communicate in person. Allowing someone to appear in the same office space but actually be in your own safe space.”
As we stand on the threshold of 2024, the canvas for the future of office spaces is not merely a physical construct—it's a dynamic, responsive ecosystem. It's about crafting environments that adapt, inspire, and empower individuals to thrive in an ever-changing professional landscape. The blueprint for tomorrow's office spaces is etched with sustainability, inclusivity, and flexibility, transcending the traditional confines of workspaces.
