After a worldwide experimental year, multiple surveys and analyses now tell the story of what we can assume the future of work might look like. Throughout all the studies, one thing is sure: bringing people together in the workplace will be an integral part of this new mission and attractive interiors will be a key differentiating factor for the future of the workplace. 

Despite undeniable data referencing impressive results of remote working, the data ultimately points out that human interaction and connection cannot be replaced. However, this does not negate the fact that the majority of the global workforce is primarily unwilling to return back to the office full-time. As a result of these discoveries, we now bring the new buzz-worthy phrase: “Hybrid Office” into the mix. 

All the Buzz: “Hybrid Office” – Is it the Future?

For years, various buzzwords have defined the office scene starting in 1967 with the predated notion of cubicles. First introduced under the name of ‘action office,’ the decades that followed have shown that they represent anything but. Open-plan offices had a moment that also brought their own set of challenges. So is Hybrid the new sweet age of working? 

Looking at the various approaches, studies, and formats of each, we at Swiss Bureau conclude that an Agile office space is a large part of the solution and is key to a future of a truly hybrid workplace. 

What is Agile?

The “Agile Revolution” was born via software development, prioritizing speed, autonomy, and collaboration to unlock an organizations’ hidden potential. It was not about exercising control; it was about inspiring a change in behavior and mindset. For Agile teams, the most critical job is defining the desired outcome while giving each individual the freedom to achieve it the best way they know how. Employees of an Agile workforce are predominately empowered and judged on their achievements no matter where they are physically, so it’s no wonder that when Covid-19 hit, agile teams were typically ready.

The New “Agile Revolution” in Interior Design

A truly agile design offers flexibility within boundaries. As such, it allows the creation of a space that is beautifully suited to the employee, enabling complete control and freedom to choose where and when they work. The layout honors a flow of productivity within a less formal and collaborative space by creating a range of areas within the office to celebrate the individual and collaboration – all essential contributions to a well-oiled machine ready for business. 

Going to the office has never been just about work, and it isn’t just about creating a cool new vibe in the workplace. Today, an office is where people build trust through personal interaction. A place where new joiners learn the nuances of a job while developing and maintaining organizational culture. It’s about creating touchpoints that foster random in-person encounters, for it is such rendezvous that generate many of the most innovative and creative ideas.

What does the Future Workplace hold?

As a post-vaccinated workplace takes shape, and many companies are deciding whether to go hybrid or not. It’s worth noting that the underlying commonality of any modern workplace lies in flexibility.

We’re all learning as we go, and there is no one-size-fits-all for businesses, but it is clear that the workplace landscape has abundantly changed. The era of flexible, agile working is here to stay, and the ones with an agile workforce will be the ones who succeed in this constantly changing world we live in.