The Office as USP

Design can play a crucial role in attracting and retaining talent. And this goes way further than the before mentioned ping-pong tables. Branding and culture are key. An office should reflect the brand, its values and purpose. Through interior branding, designers can use a physical space to communicate a message about the company behind it. In other words, interior design is a tool to change the way people feel about the brand when they step through the door.

Workplace design isn’t just about what works in the current moment, designers and employers must look ahead to the next generation of office workers to anticipate their needs. This means that it is also an investment in the future wellbeing of employees.

With hybrid working and flexible work schedules, it may seem that the role of the physical workplace is getting less significant. But when people do come to the office, make sure that they get the most out of it.

Because of the changing working habits, architects and designers need to focus on those emerging needs by creating Intentional Workplaces, and enabling them through a physical space. An office should put people at the centre, by giving them a great environment to work in. Where they have the freedom to choose how and where to work. Creating togetherness and a sense of connecting with the company culture.

As the office is re-configured and re-thought, it is its role as the embodiment of company culture and identity, mission and purpose made physical, that has been least discussed and is, perhaps, least understood. But it is increasingly central to an office’s function, especially in a labour market which leaves companies competing for the most brilliant. By investing in workplace design, employers are investing in the wellbeing and happiness of employees. Not only for current staff, but also the new hires, whilst making it a bit easier to get new colleagues. To attract top talent, financials and culture remain key drivers in the job market, but must be articulated in the physical space as well.