The evolving future of workplace design

Collaborative working space is the latest approach whereby staff can easily come together informally to discuss business and ideas. As the average individual spends a large amount of time at work the demand for collective space has increased, driven by the need for social engagement in the office environment.

So how do businesses maximize their return on investment in property?

Michael Stein, Director of Ukhuni Business Furniture, a leading manufacturer of solutions-based business furniture and seating, explains that the most important way that this can be done is by ensuring that people are engaged, connected and sharing data. And it is the furniture that is going to deliver the ability to do this.

Technology has a huge impact on the trends and design of office space because there is no longer a need to have dedicated desks all the time. "Flat screens have changed the size of desks in the office and the access to wireless data has changed the way people work," Stein explained. "And this is where 'third spaces' come in as an integral part in space planning and design. They always existed but were never used because of the limitations of technology. Traditional workspaces meant that individuals were boxed in and they wouldn't see spaces for alternative or collaborative purposes."

Today using 'third spaces' in your office environment provides staff with a variety of flexible options, which has been proven to increase creativity and productivity. They also invite interaction and the exchange of ideas, or a quiet place to think and get a fresh perspective.

Changing trends

Managing Director of Ukhuni Business Furniture, Margaret Taeli, recognises that furniture design needs to keep up with changing trends, technology and lifestyles. This is why Ukhuni has a new website that also acts as a virtual showroom. "We are mindful that every business has a different requirement and that is why we are a systems-based business, selling office furniture via a consultative process," Taeli explained.

To be at the forefront of office space design the focus should be on catering for the needs of different generations from baby boomers through to millennials. While baby boomers needed a desk to work, millennials have a desire to belong and make a difference anywhere and anytime. Therefore all these needs have to be considered while harnessing technology and catering to the rapidly changing environment.

Furniture should be interchangeable and offer greater value for money. "Our clients are safely buying products that from a fashion and technological point of view, will last between five and 10 years," said Taeli. "Our latest range at Ukhuni is at the most optimum shape, and allows components of future elements to be changed."

"Keeping up with the rapid changing trends is a costly exercise," explained Stein. "This is why it is important to work with our clients to make sure that they get the maximum return from their investment by looking for opportunities where we can optimise the life cycle of the product."

A big problem that Michael Stein identified in environments today is the emphasised focus on absenteeism when the real underlying issue was 'presenteeism'. "Employed people are present at work but they are disengaged," he explained. It is, essentially, this issue that has been the driving force in developing the Ukhuni brand. "We want to help our clients create an environment that employees are engaged, productive and happy," said Stein.

Ukhuni manufactures all furniture locally and makes use of local materials too. Up to 95% of the materials used are also recyclable. "We are not interested in delivering the core standard, but rather sustainability, value efficiency and innovation," said Stein. "Our furniture is the vehicle for us to provide a service that encourages productive, healthy staff who are engaged at work and growing the bottom line on a sustainable long-term basis and this is what makes our furniture unique."

The level of professional service and the vast knowledge of Ukhuni's employees is something that they pride themselves in. "We are noticing that we are being called in by space planners, project managers, corporate interior designers and end-users to consult, which is a great achievement for us as this means that Ukhuni is becoming trusted amongst industry professionals," Stein concluded.