Hybrid Office Design: A Guide for Architects and Employers

Hybrid office design is now standard practice across the board. Some companies still require employees to be in the office full-time, while many others offer a permanent hybrid work alternative. Gallup states that hybrid workers are, on average, coming into the office three days per week, which requires a rethink of modern office architecture. We need innovative office spaces to accommodate the diverse needs of hybrid work. That being said, our team of architects in NJ have put together a guide to hybrid office design based on the most recent commercial office additions to our portfolio.

What Are Hybrid Work Models?   

What are flexible and hybrid work models at their core? They link remote workers with on-site employees and include spaces such as home, the office, and a third space that could be a local coffee shop or a more ambitious spot like the beach. Employees have the flexibility to choose when they will be in the office, unless there are team-specific requirements. 

The intent of this model is to encourage quality levels of productivity and engagement, no matter where workers are based. Office architecture and interior design must change to provide efficient, productive, and cost-effective hybrid work spaces. 

Adapting Office Architecture for Hybrid Work Models

A hybrid office accommodates people present the whole day, those wanting spaces for activity-based work (ABW), and others who visit the office to engage and socialize with colleagues in collaborative spaces. They are supported by background infrastructure making the working environment comfortable, safe and efficient. 

When we adapt office architecture for hybrid work models, we should think differently about security, lighting, HVAC, air purification systems and other factors. All aspects of your hybrid office should be smart and energy efficient; and ensure the space is secure even when employees are traveling to the building at irregular times. 

Redefining Office Space Demands Through Flexibility and Collaboration   

Hybrid office design layout is all about flexibility and collaboration. There are fewer assigned desks and more spaces accommodating different work styles and preferences. Areas for activity-based work could be a secluded working desk if someone needs quiet to focus or make phone calls, intimate meeting rooms for client meetings, sound proof pods for private, client-sensitive conversations, moveable screens for pop-up meeting rooms, or designated rooms where workers engage with remote colleagues. 

Teams might also use more collaborative areas with large screens, quality sound and writeable surfaces, or even lounges for those who work more effectively in informal surroundings while at the office. Another consideration is facilities who provide drinks and food are often integral to encouraging employees to be in the office. No matter what layout you decide on, your workplace should inspire collaboration, while reflecting your desired company culture.

The Integration of Technology in Office Design    

Technology is at the heart of hybrid office design. All meeting rooms have larger screens and advanced video conferencing tools to collaborate with multiple remote-working colleagues in an engaging way, influencing layout and lighting choices.

Easy-to-access internet connections and power sources must be available anywhere in the building. Whether people use a couch or hot desk, more cables need to be accommodated in the office design. Other considerations include automated scheduling systems which are vital to managing the various new office spaces, and that IT departments will have specific layout and service needs, to support the increased use of technology.

Advanced Office Layouts: The Key to Employee Well-Being and Adaptability 

Employees have new expectations for the office, and companies must find a balance between employer and employee needs. Hybrid office design fulfills a lot of these requirements, especially when you add quality natural light, break spaces and other natural elements to support employee well-being. Incorporating wellness into your hybrid office design is a win-win scenario for everyone. 

For more information on hybrid office design and how we can help your commercial business in NJ, please contact our team at Seth A. Leeb Architect or visit our website at: https://leeb-architecture.com/

This blog was originally published at https://leeb-architecture.com/hybrid-office-design-guide-for-architects/