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But rather than going back to dividing spaces, they \u201cbleed into\u201d each other, he added.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe end result is that you bring out the creativity and innovation from each employee, because you are giving them a comfortable experience where they can start thinking outside the box,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
Chris Congdon, global director of global research at Steelcase Inc., an office equipment manufacturer in Grand Rapids, Mich., agrees that offices are shifting to more agile work environments.<\/p>\n \u201cThe workplace is like a really great community,\u201d she said. \u201cIt has to have a range of diverse spaces to meet the different needs of people at different times.\u201d<\/p>\n Congdon said some businesses may have gone to extreme efforts to create a trendy workplace<\/a> in their desire to attract employees<\/a>.<\/p>\n \u201cAdding playground or boutique hotel elements was a super hot trend. I\u2019ve even seen a jungle gym in an office,\u201d she said. \u201cBut these elements were generating lukewarm results, so now that idea is getting moderated.\u201d<\/p>\n Enabling collaboration<\/a> is still a top priority, Congdon said, but office spaces are now achieving that by incorporating flexible elements that can be reconfigured based on the activity workers are doing.<\/p>\n For example, movable white boards, wall panels and work surfaces are replacing solid walls and enclosed conference rooms. Some businesses have even taken to styling their movable walls after garage doors.<\/p>\n Bare brick walls are being enhanced by natural elements, with popular accents including stone, wood, and greenery. More creative environments are looking at waterfalls<\/a> or reflective pools.<\/p>\n Such spaces also support a lot more physical activity. Rather than having to sit down for the duration of a session, employees can sit, perch on stools, stand or walk around while working.<\/p>\n Sofas, of course, are still part of the scene. However, they\u2019re no longer \u201csquishy,\u201d but more upright and firmer to allow people to sit comfortably for an informal conversation or work on their laptops, Congdon said.<\/p>\n \u201cThe workplace is still warm and welcoming, but designed for work, not play,\u201d she said. \u201cBecause at the end of the day, what people really want is to come to work to get things done.\u201d<\/p>\n Financial Post<\/em><\/p>\n![\"An](\"https:\/\/financialpostcom.files.wordpress.com\/2019\/11\/collaborative-office.jpg?w=288&quality=90&strip=all\")
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