Navigating the New Normal: Office Design Trends Post-RTO”

Joellen Stade, Owner | Sr. Commercial Interior Designer 

Trends in Office Interior Design: “Return-to-Office" (RTO) Impacts on Workplace Environments

Recently, I explored several podcasts-articles discussing ‘Return-to-Office’ (RTO) policies. It seems there are diverse approaches being embraced by businesses welcoming employees to RTO.

Responses by employees also seem to vary from those who receive a mandate notification, to those that are receiving a more flexible invitation to RTO work engagement.

From what I have gleaned on the topic of RTO policies, flexibility seems to be the pivot point to engage employees back to the office. In addition, it seems that the Interior Design of the work environment will require the same consideration. Flexibility, along with elements of the work environment that instills a feeling of security and comforts of home, are top attributes of a contemporary, successful and productive work environment.

Today, as the office remains a hub for connecting, innovation and culture, I’m sharing emerging trends, and considerations for Office Interior Design and embracing RTO with enthusiasm and confidence.

Emerging Trends and Considerations for Office Design to Welcome Employees to Return-to-Office

1.     Prioritizing Essentials in Office Design:

• The modern workplace is undergoing significant changes. To meet the needs of today’s workforce, offices are shifting their focus towards essential elements that facilitate effective work.

• These essentials include:
• Safety: Ensuring a safe work environment is paramount. Consider physical safety measures, health protocols, and ergonomic designs.
• Technology Integration: Current technologies play a crucial role. Offices should be equipped with seamless connectivity, smart devices, and collaborative tools.
• Well-Designed Spaces: Employees now demand well-thought-out spaces that cater to concentrated work. These areas serve as essential tools for productivity and overall well-being.

• The ultimate goal is to create workspaces that people genuinely want to return to, balancing functionality with productivity and creativity¹.

2.     Confronting Distractions:

• Distractions can significantly impact office workers’ productivity. When designing office spaces, consider purposeful layouts and structures that minimize distractions.

• Create designated areas for quiet concentration, especially for tasks that require focused attention. These spaces can help employees maintain productivity and reduce interruptions².

3.     Work Designed with Flexibility, Collaboration and Sustainability and Employee Wellness

• Modular spaces that allow flexibility in occupancy.
• Zoom rooms for virtual meetings
• Touch down spaces for Remote Workers

4.     Biophilic Design - Bring Greenery and Nature to the Build Environment

• The office design trends include  natural light, greenery, organic patterns and natural materials. It can include plant boxes  in the work areas, courtyards, green roofs, and nature-inspired artwork.

Remember, successful office design isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about creating an environment that supports employee well-being, collaboration, and productivity. By incorporating these trends and considerations, business owners can prepare their offices for a successful return-to-work experience. 

Your Design Company is a full-service design-build company with the passion and expertise to transform your commercial space into a place where people thrive and reach their maximum potential. 

Please feel free to give us a call. We listen to your needs and deliver solutions that work for you. 

Call us for your next office refresh or build-out   763-439-3774