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5 New Trends in Corporate Design

Office spaces are no longer a bland land of cubicles and white washed walls. Companies finally realized that when employees actually want to be at work, they will be more productive. Workspaces are becoming friendlier, foster a community atmosphere and are far more open than ever before. More options for building relationships and fostering creativity are popping up in offices including quirky furniture, gyms, small libraries and fully stocked bars. Meeting rooms have more options for presentations. Multitasking is more important than ever. The old design rules are out the window.

1. Open floor plans

An open floor plan fosters a community atmosphere where collaboration and freedom of ideas are key. By taking away most walled off rooms and having large space makes the employees feel less distant from each other. There is more interaction, and most companies hope more ideas being passed back and forth.

These spaces are better for younger workers who multi-task well. Some people may be distracted by others’ talking and laughter. This environment creates a sense of camaraderie and support for the company because the employees feel like they belong there.

2. Wall murals

A mural can break up a large space and make the room more visually interesting. OPen space can quickly become overwhelming. Instead painting a wall one bold color or white, a mural can give the space dimension and show the companies mission or branding. Some companies hire street artists to do graffiti-style murals which gives the space a more urban feel.

3. Collaborative workspaces or meeting rooms

Creating a bright, comfortable space that still allows for a good creative workflow can be quite varied. There can be a round table and chairs or couches and ottomans. There can be large whiteboard or chalkboard to brainstorm, a projector to give presentations and lots of outlets for people to plug their electronics into.

Small rooms can be very confining and not have very good airflow so many companies are opting for glass walls or semi-open spaces to have an open environment. Some companies like Dropbox offer spaces that are decorated differently.

4. Etched glass and window stickers

While large windows and glass walls can make a space very open and inviting, in business, sometimes there is need for some privacy. Some offices use glass etching or stickers with their logo on the glass to somewhat cover the glass. It offers privacy but not at the cost of an entirely closed off space. it also offers an opportunity to show off your branding.

Adobe’s Utah boardroom has a window that runs along the entire length of the room with words in a large font printed from ceiling to floor.

5. Creative toys throughout the offices

Employees can end up spending a lot of time at work, so why not make that time productive and fun? Small nooks with shelves of books, gyms, and even fully stocked bars can be found in new, creative offices. The Github office in San Francisco has a large, open bar space and long tables for employees which creative a relaxed, community atmosphere.

Dropbox’s office has a fully dedicated gym and a piano in a dimly lit lounge space. It also allows skateboarding in the office, which is only a good idea if you have good insurance.

Not all these ideas work for every company or workspace, but implementing these design ideas will make your office feel modern and your employees will work harder and longer for a company that shows they care enough to invest in them.

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