Do I Need To Be Concerned With Current Trends And Styles In My Office Design?

Written by Stan Bennett on Dec 19, 2017 9:00:00 AM

It is easy to look back on trends and styles from the past and wonder what everyone was thinking. In addition, there are many elements of design that seem to change quickly. Because trends and styles seem to change so much it can leave business owners wondering if keeping up with the latest trends in their office design is worth the effort. When you consider design trends that only impact aesthetics then they type of business you own will dictate your style. For example, if clients spend a significant amount of time in your office then their comfort should be one of the things you consider in the design. The style of your office is something that is very individualized. There are, however, some current trends that every business owner needs to consider for their office space. These trends have more to do with function than aesthetics.  Some of the current trends in office space design and layout include ergonomic furniture, collaborative work spaces, and technology integration.

Ergonomic furniture

Integrating ergonomic furniture into offices is a trend that is all about the well-being of your employees. Ergonomic furniture is designed to minimize injury and maximize comfort for people who spend the majority of their time working inside an office. The desk chair is a common example of office furniture that can be designed ergonomically. Elements like adjustable height, adjustable arm rests, and lumbar support all help make working more comfortable. But, chairs are not the only piece of ergonomic furniture available. You can also get ergonomic accessories such as articulating monitor arms and adjustable pull-out keyboard trays. The trend of using ergonomic furniture and accessories in the work place is good for employees and the business because it can help maximize productivity by minimizing discomfort and injury.

Collaborative workspaces

Another trend in modern offices is the collaborative workspace. Over recent years, more and more walls and cubicles are being removed in offices in favor of a more open concept work environment. The idea behind this is that more and more of the work businesses do is collaborative. When the walls are removed it makes collaboration easier and more natural. If your employees frequently work collaboratively then this is a trend you should consider for your office.

Technology integration

A large amount of the design and furniture choices in modern offices is dictated by technology. Technology has become an essential element to the majority of businesses. Office furniture designers now take technology into consideration in their designs. Technology in the business place is not a trend that is in danger of fizzling out. This means that choosing office furniture with your technology needs in mind is a good design trend to follow.

The paint colors and accessories you choose for your office can have a big impact on the overall aesthetics. But, these types of aesthetic design choices should be secondary to the functional design choices you make for your office. The well-being and productivity of your employees can both be significantly impacted by the functional office design trends you choose to follow.    

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Topics: Office Furniture