5 Trends Driving the New Post-Pandemic Workplace

 

The Covid-19 pandemic has significantly disturbed work-life, altering the way employees work and do their jobs. It has also led to a lot of debate on the future of work and how office layouts need to change as per the new normal.

Covid-19 has increased the need for office renovations to support social distancing and provide cleaner and more efficient workplaces. If you have a poorly designed office, it can result in mental health issues, anxiety, and higher stress levels. On the other hand, a properly designed office space will foster better health, collaboration, keep employees comfortable and happy, and promote productivity.

Here are five simple ways to redesign your office space, keeping in mind your employee’s safety and wellbeing as they return to the office:

1. Prioritize Physical Distancing between and within Workstations

Many offices will need to make space to maintain a distance of six feet between workstations. Even if the government doesn’t continue to mandate physical distancing, employees will feel safer and comfortable if they know that their workstation has appropriate social distance. You can invest in smaller desks or stagger chairs around the table to maintain the required distance.

2. Choose Open Floor Plans

Open office spaces allow for easy cleaning. Moreover, the number of surface touchpoints for employees is lesser. Proper ventilation is also vital to restrict the spread of Covid-19. An open floor plan can give your opportunities to open windows and instantly improves office ventilation.

3. Focus on Furniture, Appliances, and Finishes

In the future, workspaces need adaptable furniture. Their finish materials must be antimicrobial and easy to sanitize. Appliances must use the latest technology, limiting touching and making the office space more efficient.

4. Increase Meeting Rooms

Many employees will continue to work from home. A small meeting room with the right AV equipment can allow two people to sit together and connect with the rest of the team.

5. Educate Employees

With the help of a commercial contractor, introduce floor stickers, decals, emblems, and more into the office space. These will help employees follow the protocols, maintain social distance, and stay safe.