What are Modern Office Space Standards?
In simple terms, modern workspace standards refer to the design and functionality of work environments that prioritise flexibility, efficiency, and employee well-being. These standards incorporate various elements to support different work styles, such as ergonomic furniture, adaptable layouts, and integrated technology. Some key features of modern office design standards include-
- Open-plan layouts that promote collaboration among teams.
- Quiet zones designed for focused work.
- Huddle rooms for quick brainstorming or informal meetings.
- Breakout areas that offer space for informal interactions and relaxation.
- Dedicated meeting rooms for in-depth discussions and presentations.
Besides, many companies now incorporate flexible seating arrangements, such as private desks and movable workstations, to accommodate employees who divide their time between home and the office. They also look for coworking spaces with onsite breakout areas like gyms and cafes to boost employee satisfaction and productivity.
How Much Office Space is Needed Per Employee?
Before 2020, businesses in the UK considered 100 sq ft per employee as the standard. However, this has now been increased to 110 sq ft per employee. As per this re-evaluation of workspace standards post-pandemic, you must allocate approximately 50 square feet for individual desk space and 50 square feet for shared areas such as meeting rooms and break rooms.
Beyond employee desks, you’ll also need to account for office amenities. Here’s a rough estimate of the space needed for common facilities:
- Small meeting room (2-4 people)- 100 square feet
- Larger meeting room (4-8 people)- 150 square feet
- Boardroom (15-20 people)- 250 square feet
- Kitchen/refreshment area- 100 square feet
Best Practices for Office Space Allocation
To optimise office layouts for modern workplaces, companies should adopt a flexible approach that accommodates the needs of various workstyles. Here are some best practices for allocating office space.
Assess Employee Workspace Needs
The first step in allocating office space is understanding how employees work. Ask the following questions-
- How many employees do you currently have?
- How many employees will follow a hybrid work schedule?
- How many will work in the office full-time and how many will work part-time?
- How many employees will work remotely?
Once you answer these questions, assess your employees’ workspace needs. Do they require meeting rooms, huddle rooms, breakout areas, or a private desk? Incorporate this input into your office layout to make sure the space meets their needs.
Focus on Employee Comfort
Invest in comfortable, ergonomic seating, proper lighting, and climate control to create an environment where employees can focus and feel at ease. Paying attention to these small details can hugely impact both performance and job satisfaction.
Plan for Future Growth and Expansion
Say you have a team of 15, with 5 employees working remotely and the remaining 10 in the office. In the future, you plan on hiring 10 more employees who will work on-site. To ensure your office setup remains adaptable to your growing team, choose a flexible workspace design. A well-thought-out layout will allow you to scale up or down as needed, helping you avoid costly office redesigns down the road.
Choose the Right Office Space
The floorplan you choose should align with the nature of your business. Creative teams might thrive in open spaces that foster collaboration, while employees who need to focus may benefit from private offices. A balanced mix of both can provide the flexibility your team needs to thrive in different situations.
How Does Office Design Impact Employee Productivity?
A poorly designed office can hinder communication, cause distractions, and lead to employee dissatisfaction. On the other hand, a well-designed office that caters to the needs of employees can boost morale, improve efficiency, and foster collaboration. Some key design elements that influence productivity are-
Natural Light
Natural light improves energy and mood levels, while well-designed artificial lighting helps reduce eye strain and headaches. Adding natural elements like indoor plants, green walls, and natural materials, further improve the workspace. A study from Human Spaces shows that these natural elements can increase productivity by 6% and creativity by 15%.
Quiet Zones
Noise is one of the most common distractions in an office. Providing quiet areas or soundproof meeting rooms allows employees to focus and work without disturbances.
Collaborative Spaces
Designing spaces that encourage teamwork and communication can drive innovation and creative problem-solving. These areas should be flexible, comfortable, and equipped with the necessary technology for seamless interaction.
Health and Wellness Spaces
Modern office designs often incorporate areas where employees can relax, exercise, or take breaks. These spaces contribute to a healthier work environment and can reduce stress, leading to higher productivity.
To End
If you’re looking for a coworking space that aligns with modern work needs, consider GO (Garden Office) Bermondsey. Located in the heart of London, we offer flexible workspaces for large and small teams.
Our offices, such as the Viaduct office (675 sq ft) and Unit 50 A (470 sq ft), come with various layout options to fit your team’s specific needs. Moreover, all our workspaces come fully equipped with essential amenities, including high-speed internet, ergonomic furniture, secure parking, private kitchens, and reception services.
Book a visit to GO (Garden Office) Bermondsey today!
