Now that more and more people are getting vaccinated, it’s finally starting to seem like COVID is finally getting under control and the end is in sight; things can go back to normal. However, there is going to be a new version of “normal” in the world, making it so that when everyone returns to the office, it’s not going to be exactly like it was before.
New rules, regulations, and considerations need to be made and followed to continuously protect people when they return to the office. But this means that the old offices need to be completely redesigned to accommodate these regulations. Which has resulted in many offices looking to revamp their space into a more flexible and open work environment. Traditional offices are now a thing of the past. Physical distancing, safety, health, and wellness are all now at the forefront for office designs. Our team here at iRemodel Commercial Construction is going to go over some new office trends and designs for you to think about when you remodel your office space.
Outdoor Meeting Areas
Just like how restaurants and pubs have patios for people to use, some offices can offer similar areas for employees to use in order to keep things comfortable for employees while allowing them to be outside, instead of stuck inside all day. These patios/outdoor meeting areas will allow groups to meet while social distancing and getting a breath of fresh air as a bonus.
Hands Free Designs
In order to reduce the spread of germs throughout an office, especially in places that have common touch points, these need to be replaced so that they are hands free. This can include things like automatic doors, automatic sinks, automatic toilets, hand dryers, etc.
Sanitization and Handwashing Stations
To decrease the spread of germs even further, regular hand washing needs to be implemented, along with sanitization stations. These stations need to be in addition to the employee washrooms and kitchenettes. They need to be accessible throughout the office, in high traffic areas, in order to make it easier for employees to utilize them. Such places can include entrances, meeting rooms, reception areas, and any other place that has a lot of people in it regularly.
Workspace Physical Distancing
Updated floor plans will need to be made in order to accommodate for social distancing. Meeting the 6 feet distancing requirement means it is not possible to squish as many people as possible into small areas, like office pods. Making this the biggest design consideration for all offices. Making it challenging for most organizations to figure out a way to have enough space for each workstation in their current layout. This can mean that some employees will need to keep working from home due to space constraints in the office. Or another option would be to have a rotating schedule for employees to come into the office, as well as work from home.
Mental Health and Wellness Perks
Saying that these last few years have been stressful is an understatement. Making mental health and wellness even more important than ever before. A lot of people feel drained and burnt out. Offering more amenities to employees is one way to combat this burnout. This could mean companies can add things like yoga studios, fitness rooms, or things like meditation pods or other decompression spaces.
One Way Traffic
When trying to keep people’s social distance of 6 feet or more, creating one way traffic areas is a good way to keep space between people walking in opposite directions. This would be no different from the road we drive on. Decreasing people having to pass each other too closely.
How We Can Help with Your New Office Design
If your office is due for a post-pandemic makeover, our team here at iRemodal Commercial Construction is here to help! We offer outstanding Toronto Office Renovation services! We can help you redesign your office to meet these new design rules, regulations, and considerations. Give us a call at (416) 477-1070 to have a consultation with one of our highly skilled and knowledgeable team members.