The work revolution = a revolution in workspaces?
The world of work is currently undergoing a period of revolution that leaves no one indifferent. Profound changes are affecting the way employers and employees must work, recruit, and redefine their values and cultures. These repercussions are being felt—as we interior designers have witnessed over the past few years—in the needs and expectations that influence the design of the workspaces we create. This revolution in the world of work is effectively causing a revolution in workspaces.
In this essay, which is based on a presentation I gave to my colleagues at Corporate Connections Canada, Montreal Chapter 2, I offer some thoughts on the causes and issues related to this revolution and its impact on interior design.
COVID-19: an accelerator
Even before the arrival of COVID-19, there was already a trend in the world of work that suggested change was imminent. Propelled by the pandemic, we are now talking about a revolution. Changes that would normally have taken place over a longer period of time are happening at breakneck speed.
But what factors led to these upheavals?
Changes in mindset, a pandemic that is disrupting our methods and achievements in the workplace, and a labor shortage are causing a significant shift in the world of work.
New expectations
With the new generation of workers has come a redefinition of the meaning of work and success. They seek to find meaning in what they do and measure their success in ways other than their work and the accumulation of material goods. As this generation is more focused on experiences than on possessions, today’s employees want conditions, personal growth, and a sense of accomplishment.
A shortage of staff
It is, in fact, the labor shortage that has, among other things, enabled this generation to demand better conditions and force employers to rethink their offers. A classic case of supply and demand! It is more important than ever for employers to find incentives to attract and, above all, retain their employees: a good salary is no longer enough. An inspiring work environment is one such incentive.
An unexpected pandemic
As we have all witnessed the impact of the pandemic on our way of life, it is clear that there will be a before and after Covid-19, and that workspaces will not be spared by this clear distinction between before and after. Remote working, made possible by rapid digitalization, has highlighted what many people doubted: the productivity of employees outside the workplace.
What about employers?
Uncertain about how work will be organized in a post-COVID era, experts continue to question the future of the office and attempt to identify the major trends that will define its layout.
In the meantime, employers no longer have the option of questioning themselves, reviewing their corporate culture, and, as a result, adapting their office spaces to better meet the immediate needs and expectations of their employees.
A revolution in workspaces: a new phenomenon?
History has amply demonstrated how social changes have impacted office design concepts. In fact, I plan to provide a historical overview of office design in another article to show how this workplace revolution is actually a fine example of the natural evolution of corporate design.
