Flexible workspace: What is it and why do you need it?

What is a flexible workspace?

The modern working world is changing. What was once regarded as being a “typical” office environment is now considered restrictive and counter-productive. Gone are the days of set desk positions, cubicles and the strict ‘nine to five’, replaced with open-plan seating that caters to employees’ ever-changing working needs. 

Within a flexible workspace, there need to be different “zones” that staff have a choice to work from, giving them the freedom to choose where suits their current task at hand. This mentality has become the norm, with recent research conducted by the EY in their 2021 Work Reimagined Employee Survey revealing that four out of five workers desired a flexible workspace. Not only this, a whopping 47% stated that they would consider moving jobs if flexible working wasn’t available to them. If there’s ever a time to hop on the bandwagon, it’s now! 

Why do you need a flexible workspace?

So, what are the benefits of flexible working? To answer, there’s plenty. Embarking on an office redesign could provide the boost your employees need, as proven by a Dr. van der Voordt’s study that aimed to shine a light on productivity and employee satisfaction in flexible workspaces. This research revealed that, when a company decided to change its office layout, an increase in productivity was felt by 51%, as opposed to a low 14% before the redesign. 

When staff have control over how and where they work, it’s evident that they’re much happier being in an environment that caters to their ever-changing needs. And with the smiles comes a heightened desire to stay within the business, alongside attracting new talent. 

How to set up a flexible workspace

Of course, the process of setting up a flexible workspace is made much easier when you have a bunch of office fit out professionals to help you out. By collaborating with an office furniture company, they’ll be able to turn your design dreams into reality, being able to understand your requirements and business needs, as well as offering you items that would best fit the desired office aesthetic. From minimalistic styles to cosy and kitsch, there’s something out there for every business. 

Collaborative areas

The flexible workspace features various office breakout spaces, which are set zones designed to enhance staff communication and collaboration. They allow groups to participate in a brainstorming session, or provide a space for partners to work on a project together. Without these spaces, it’s likely that employees will end up tightly huddled around a desk, causing a distraction to the rest of the office if noise levels begin to creep higher. When staff are given their own breakout space to chat in, which are often complete with shielding acoustic panels for noise protection, the whole office will be productive. 

Quiet zones

Any working environment experiences moments in the day that are particularly high-energy, and sometimes employees may need to take a quiet minute to recharge away from the commotion. Incorporating an office relaxation room into your flexible workspace creates the opportunity for staff to get some “me time”, surrounded by calming plants, ambient music and of course, plenty of comfortable furniture. Our office armchairs and sofas strive for optimum comfort, allowing your employees to sink back into complete luxury. And…breathe.

Open plan office design

The open plan office design concept is a massive contributor to increased flexibility in the workspace. This allows staff to move freely through the various working “zones”, as described previously, creating a more sociable environment where it’s perfectly normal to bump into a few colleagues along the way. The open plan office design is all about using your working space wisely, contrasting against more traditional set-ups that confined staff to cramped, sectioned desks. 

Hot desks

Another feature of the flexible workspace that goes against traditional office design is hot desking, where desks are not assigned to any particular person. With no strict seating plan in place, staff can pick and choose where they complete their work, and this also opens up the opportunity for visitors or temps to take a seat.

If you want to enhance flexibility in your workspace, our team of office fit out experts are here to help. Have a chat with us to discuss your business goals, so that we can match you up with the right furniture to suit your dream aesthetic.