By John Sulzmann, founder, Artworks Solutions
John has considerable experience in commercial design solutions for workplace interiors and built Artworks Solutions from a one man operation to its present 60 strong team.
He has over 20 years industry experience in the sign, graphics and design industry. Artworks Solutions provides digitally printed bespoke graphics, branding and decorative solutions for the workplace environment.
Changing times
Once upon a time, workplace design was simplistic and functional, and particularly in the office environment, you might be forgiven for thinking all workspaces were essentially the same. A limited range of designs, available office furniture, and even architecture meant that there was a very standard outline design on offer, and one that left imagination at the door.
Fortunately, times have changed and the staid, unimaginative workspace has been left to the annals of history. Employers are increasingly working to create spaces that inspire, provide comfort and functionality, and above all, are representative of their brand.
In addition to interior and exterior design, the buildings which house office environments have also evolved, not only incorporating new and interesting design, but repurposing existing buildings such as disused factories, listed buildings and modified buildings (former residences like large townhouses). These environments provide stimulating and inspiring workplaces and can be real talking points for staff and visitors alike.
With this new generation of workplaces comes the challenge of how their interiors should be designed to make the best of the space whilst also providing functionality for the working team.
A space to think
Open plan offices are hugely popular as they encourage interaction between teams but they can present their own problems for productivity, particularly in older, converted spaces which provide more echo and amplification of general office noise. This isn’t good news for those needing quiet time to concentrate on involved tasks or important calls. Break-out or quiet rooms may offer some improvement, but often even smaller spaces have the same acoustic issues and sound can travel quite significantly in these, also affecting conference and one-to-one calls.
Soundproofing and noise reduction solutions are the answer, and far from being unattractive and purely functional, these solutions can be designed to blend seamlessly with existing interior theme, providing a significant noise reduction coefficient (NRC) at the same time.
Bespoke fabric walling and ceiling baffles can dramatically reduce noise reverberation, and when designed and printed to carry through the workplace’s design theme, they also provide an aesthetic function. High ceilings and large spaces can be made cosier by the introduction of suspended baffles, which not only absorb excess noise but can also incorporate lighting spots and carry design themes through.
Noise reduction walling and baffling is composed of specific noise-reducing materials (a variety of high quality brands are available) wrapped in fabrics such as lamb’s wool.
Functionality of design is another key consideration when looking at work spaces. Sound reducing baffles can be interspersed with a range of practical items like dry wipe boards, magnetic glass, pin boards and acoustic art creating an attractive, practical space-saving display.
Wall mounted soundproofing material can also be made into acoustic graphics, perfect for making an open space more attractive and reducing reverb at the same time.
Inspirational images
Branding, signage and imagery play a key role in inspiring the workforce, and can be incorporated seamlessly into a workplace environment. Carrying branding themes throughout the environment, incorporating brand devices into practical items (door handles, notice boards, storage and signage for example), is an ingenious way of reinforcing company values and messaging to staff and visitors alike. Images, (especially those denoting teams and work or projects in an attractive setting) can also boost morale and serve as a pertinent reminder of the company and workforce’s raison d’etre.
Multipurpose
While buildings might be increasing in size thanks to renovation and building projects focusing on commercial property, the contemporary challenge of competitive rents and rates – particularly for coveted city centre properties – means space can still prove a premium.
As a result, workplace planners must use space intelligently and incorporate multipurpose features, such as glass artwork that doubles as folding storage doors, interior glass walls that double as dry wipe surfaces, and lighting fixtures that also absorb sound.
More than just a space
Above all, it is vital to remember that workplace design is about far more today than simple functionality. If real consideration has gone into its features, a workplace will bring the organisation’s brand to life, inspire its workforce and visitors (which could include potential clients, investors and employees), and also make working life simpler. By providing the right spaces and tools for quiet work, meetings, calls and creative brainstorms, including multipurpose facilities, these workplace designs can also help improve the productivity and headspace of the workforce, reflecting the organisation’s values and aspirations.
