The changing work environment coupled with the covid-19 pandemic has influenced the direction of many design trends for commercial buildings and workspaces. Navigating through all the different work from home and in person scenarios, it is important to consider both factors when designing your commercial property for a return to the office. 

 

Flex Workspaces

Not long ago, the idea that office buildings that were limited exclusively to working was redefined. A large number of changes that influenced the design and desired use for the spaces. An increasingly pervasive startup culture that exploded in the rest of the workplace. Companies trying to attract new employees or even retain their current ones from the allure of start ups began to rethink their workspaces. A challenge arose of turning these traditional functional spaces and redesigning them with alternative work and collaborative spaces. These spaces can help drive creativity and collaboration instead of sitting stagnant in the same space and desk all work day long.

 

Outdoor Terraces

What once was a nice to have, became a must have in commercial workplace design. It’s difficult to find a new office building without some type of outdoor space where employees or visitors can relax, work and take their meals. Especially as the covid-19 pandemic changed how employees view commuting to an office, the importance and value of time spent outdoors for physical and mental help has become much more apparent.

 

Rooftop Gathering Spaces

The once forgotten spaces for storage and utilities have new life and appreciation. Revitalized rooftops have become an opportunity in commercial buildings to rediscover hidden potential. Without major renovation, the space can typically be more easily transformed into more pleasant and habitable surroundings. Creating a sense of safety and some pleasing plantings and seating areas is the minimal effort required. These rooftop gathering spaces are now an essential part of any office building.

 

Expansive Large Panels For Natural Lighting

Large window panels allow for more natural light into interior spaces. In the Pacific Northwest the daylight hours are precious in the winter. We long for the endless sunny days of summer and we will take every ounce winter days have to offer. A variety of lighting sources from natural and unnatural is great to balance in the workplace. Lighting can impact people’s anxiety, wellness, and mental sharpness. It is important to take into account what is the desired effect when designing a space with lighting in mind. In hospitals for example, natural window light is limited, but the desire is for patients to feel aligned with natural circadian rhythms for wellness. Or sometimes a more aggressive lighting strategy is requested in the example of a tech company with multiple shifts of employees, and wanting to keep the night time shifts more alert. Artificial light panel walls can be employed in this type of environment.

 

Sturman Architects can help you design your next home or Commercial Property Project. Here at Sturman Architects in Bellevue our expertise as residential and commercial architect can help you create a custom design for home or in custom commercial building design. We like to work with clients from the start of the design phase and through the build phase to make sure execution is to your initial vision. Contact us today to discuss the possibilities for your next project.

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