What does the socially-distanced workplace look like?

Goodbye open-plan, welcome closed office

Radical workplace social distancing will have to begin immediately upon your teams return to the office which means it’s time to say goodbye to the popular open-plan office and welcome a new, different style of closed office.  There’s a strong perception that the closed office is an old-fashioned idea and is often dark and uninspiring, however this doesn’t need to be the case and there are in fact many benefits to a closed plan office, such as:

• Minimal distractions which can improve productivity and efficiency
• Many workers prefer having a personal space and privacy
• Reduces the risk of infection spread

What can we expect moving forward?

Expect to see more of the familiar social-distancing elements such as desk screens, sanitiser stations and distancing signage.  But we can also expect an increase of segregation screens in breakout and collaboration areas and the increased use of antimicrobial fabrics, vinyls and hard plastics to enable easier cleaning of furniture items.

Staggered occupancy of desking areas may also become a feature of the socially distanced workplace; meaning staff are only permitted to work at certain stations to ensure distancing regulations can be adhered to.

The above image gives soem ideas for a socially-distanced workplace, showing people-flow floor signage along with sneeze screens and lesser occupancy of desking areas.

If you’re ready to get started on making your office more covid-friendly, then please get in touch with our team on 0330 030 0330 for plenty of ideas, inspiration and energy!