Corporate Space Design
Most organizations are pushing for more efficient offices and thus less space to rent. Contemporary office efficiency is focused on flexibility that supports and enhances organizational change.
Considerations range from consolidating existing locations to implementing new energy/sustainability principles. Space efficiency measures are even more applicable if there is under-utilization or if the space is unsuited to the organization's current operating solutions.
When evaluating new space or re-fit, a culture shift may spearhead the design process. A culture shift may also occur as a result of the new space, changing the way employees work. Offices are increasingly expected to reflect the organization's mission and define its culture, integrating corporate identity and inspiring rather then just housing the workforce.
Open plan offices may enable a more collaborative and productive workplace, supported by improved space utilization. In some companies, employees may only use their desk for 20-30% of the week. Increased corporate relocation of employees can also affect space utilization patterns.
These culture changes have led to increased demand for flexible space and a renewed interest in hot desking, where desks are shared by different employees. Hot desking can achieve a 20-30% reduction in overall office operating expenses.
Shared spaces promote open communication and collaboration. These include cafés, soft landing conference areas, private meeting rooms, lounges and quiet rooms. A more flexible workspace may also:
- Achieve increased interaction and collaboration between colleagues
- Improve creativity and idea exchange
- Increase company branding through daily idea and activity sharing
- Improve space utilization
- Improve employee satisfaction
- Lessen energy consumption and increase sustainability initiatives
- Create a clearer work/life balance
- Support the needs of a mobile global workforce
- Improve talent acquisition and retention
A move toward open spaces may be also be part of a move toward more egalitarian principles of working. Expectations of hierarchical office size/standard are changing. Even traditional organizations, such as law firms, are beginning to see the cost and culture benefits of more innovative open space. Hybrid work spaces, with a combination of cellular and open, may offer the best solution for some organizations.
There is a significant fixed cost attached to making the space design changes for a more open environment. Fixtures, finishes, furnishings and lighting may be more expensive once they become highly visible. But organizations will save substantially in the long run. Closer teamwork results in increased efficiency and productivity.
Historically a company's space is its second highest expense after payroll. Factors include rent, construction, furniture, equipment and utility costs. The focus is now increasingly on whole life costs, as opposed to capital costs only. Flexibility is also an important driver, with organizations now more aware of their future work modes and their supporting technological needs. Space that can be easily reconfigured is more cost-effective in the long run.
Faithful+Gould has extensive experience of supporting clients on the cost management of their corporate interiors.