Last updated on May 16th, 2023
Style and functionality are not mutually exclusive, and more often than not, both are needed to be successful. This holds especially true in an office setting. The office is more than where the employees work.
Clients or customers come into the waiting room when they arrive for an appointment. The décor and appearance of the office makes a statement about a business’s success, it’s priorities, and how serious and dedicated they are at getting the job done. 55% percent of a first impression is from what a customer or client sees.
An office must do more than look good, however. It needs to be functional, efficient, as well as a safe and comfortable place for people to work. The newest trends in modern office furniture design incorporate these two ideas.
Unconventional Office Design
The working environment for most employees has changed a great deal over the last decade. Office workspaces swung from the impersonal isolation of the cubicle to open offices where everyone works in a shared space.
Many studies have shown that open office designs are bad for productivity and morale since most employees aren’t able to filter out the cacophony of distractions around them. 53% of workers saying the noise from an open office makes them less productive.
Now we see new office layouts that are done more like coffee shops or even a home. The idea is that these simple. Unconventional office layouts can give workers that collaborative space for working.
This space is beneficial because it provides them a space to work alone without as many distractions. Designer office furniture makes these new styles of offices feasible. It puts forth an aesthetic that’s compatible with the concept while also providing the needed comfort and functionality a modern office requires.
Ergonomics
The technological explosion over the last thirty years has meant that people spend more time sitting at a desk than ever before. A walk to a coworker’s office has been replaced by texting and instant messaging.
Seriously, how many meetings have been avoided thanks to email? With so much extra time being spent sitting at a desk, comfort is more important than ever, not only for worker morale but also for safety. 86% of office workers claim they suffer from various degrees of painful discomfort and strain from how they sit.
Repetitive motion injuries, back problems, and heart disease are just some of the difficulties stemming from spending too many hours of the day sitting. It’s been reported that in some ways, it can be worse than smoking. The necessity for better employee health has brought on innovations like office furniture that is more adjustable than ever and standing desks.
Sustainability
Environmental issues have shifted from being a company’s side project or charitable write off to be a way of doing business. A company’s green reputation can have a significant impact on their bottom line and customer perceptions.
A growing number of people see climate change as an immediate crisis that must be dealt with. It only makes sense for a company to behave in a manner that reflects its customer’s values. Especially since 61% of millennials feel that they must make the world a better, greener place. A company that helps them further that goal is more likely to get their business.
Using office furniture made from a material that is/or can be recycled can go a long way in promoting a company’s sustainability.
The executive office furniture of the corporate officers, when given the right social media boost or profile from a blogger, can create a far-reaching public statement about a company’s dedication to environmental issues even if the message is to potential customers, who will never set foot in their office.
Colour
There has been a significant shift in expectations on how offices should look, especially when it comes to colour. The days of dark wood and grayscale or beige colour schemes are over. Dull colours also dull employee engagement.
Considering that only 15% of employees are actively engaged with furthering a company’s message, values, and profitability, anything that boosts engagement should be done.
Bright and standout colours not only boost engagement, but they can also be used to further the company branding. A business whose corporate colour is a vivid cobalt blue would want cobalt blue chairs in a waiting area. It will keep the customer and worker’s minds focused on the company and what it does.
Adaptability
Even in good economic times, smart companies will always look for ways to cut unnecessary costs. An excellent way to do this is to buy office furniture that serves more than one function. It doesn’t matter if it’s office furniture for large spaces or office furniture for small spaces, there are multiple options.
Adjustable office tables are available that can go from a four-person team to seating over a dozen for a conference. Stackable and folding chairs can quickly be brought out for clients, and special events can save money.
Adaptable furniture is also essential for modern offices where workers will need to go from communal to isolated workspaces (where 54% of workers spend their time), depending on their tasks.
Conclusion
Keeping your office looking up to date, modern, and inviting is an often overlooked, but crucial part of owning a business. As the data shows, workers feel more engaged when they are comfortable, and customers feel more connected to a company when they can identify with it.
If you want to keep your business on the path to growth and success, then keep your office up to date. Your bottom line will prove it’s the right choice.
