Staying on top of workplace design trends is one thing… But ensuring your workspace can keep up with the rapidly changing practical demands of employees is a challenge in itself. First and foremost, your workspace needs to be fit for purpose. Yet elements of our working lives are changing at such a fast pace, it is difficult to have longevity from a workplace fit-out. 

The last thing you want to do is get caught in a cycle of changing your space every 2-3 years to facilitate new requirements. Planning, sourcing of equipment and downtime alone is enough to put you off - let alone the cost of new technology and equipment. 

So how do you get around being stuck in the consumption cycle - at the mercy of every external and internal change to your business… The answer lies in a future-proofing process. 

What is future-proofing a workspace?

Future-proofing your workspace means designing and equipping it in a way that ensures it can adapt and evolve with changes in technology, work practices, and workforce expectations. 

There is no one-size fits all as companies have different requirements. Some want to focus on creating a branded space with a very specific look and feel whereas others want their CSR goals to shine through - like choosing sustainably made products for example. 

One thing all companies that embark on future-proofing have in common is a vision and a strong sense of who they are and where they want to go. This helps them to overcome any external pressures like changes in technology, new trends and workforce expectations. 

Here are some practical ways to future-proof your space:

Pay attention to technology advancements

Gone are the days where everyone has a full desk-top computer at their workstation. With hybrid working and increasingly remote teams - technology is increasingly important for seamless communication and enhanced connectivity. This brings new challenges like ensuring you have a decent charging infrastructure for multiple devices, investing in equipment that allows your company to evolve in an agile way and ensuring your technology integrates seamlessly with your space. 

By future-proofing your workspace, you can ensure that your business has the infrastructure and tools necessary to take advantage of new technologies as they emerge. 

Assess how the space is best used now and in the future

Design around usage and productivity needs before assessing other requirements. The traditional team bank structure may not be the best use of space if you have a largely hybrid workforce and you’ll soon find yourself with empty desks and zero atmosphere. So hot desk banks, breakout spaces and clever meeting spaces could be a better option for you.

Likewise, if you used to be heavy on the storage but you’re going through a digitalisation process - factoring in storage to your new space just because you’re used to it is going to be a waste. It’s time to get real on what you do and don’t need. 

If you have ambitious growth plans and want to increase your headcount - then take this into consideration when you design your space and source desks and chairs. 

Think about how you can use the space to attract and retain talent

In today's competitive job market, it is important for businesses to attract and retain top talent. A modern, well-equipped office can be a key factor in attracting and retaining employees who value a modern and innovative workplace. Ensure your space caters to the type of talent you want to attract.

A well-designed office can help to increase productivity by providing employees with the tools and resources they need to work efficiently. Future-proofing your office can help to ensure that your employees have access to the latest technologies and equipment, allowing them to work more effectively and efficiently too. 

Future-proofing your space can reduce costs

Future proofing your office can help to reduce costs in the long term by avoiding the need for expensive upgrades and renovations down the line. By investing in modern infrastructure, furniture and technology now, you can save money in the long term by avoiding costly retrofits and upgrades.

Again, if you are on a growth plan and want to attract more talent, look at furniture and equipment ranges with good supply that have been around for a while. The one thing that ruins the look and feel of a workspace is mismatched furnishings and equipment. A partner like us will work with you to ensure we know your company goals and can negotiate the best contracts and prices with you for ongoing supplies and to ensure continuity of products. 

Improve your sustainability credentials

A future-proofed office can help to improve sustainability by incorporating energy-efficient systems and technologies. When choosing a space or redesigning your current one, think about sustainable changes you can make. This can help to reduce your business's environmental footprint and save money on energy costs over time.

The team at Fenns recently moved offices to a unit with solar panels and we’ve had the most energy efficient heating and lighting infrastructures fitted. The site also enabled us to invest in electric vehicles and an EV charging infrastructure too. 

On a smaller scale, the furniture and fittings you choose have an impact on the environment too. Choose products made from recycled materials and ensure that any products you purchase can be recycled at end of life. We offer a range of products and services to help you achieve your CSR goals. 

If you’re looking for more advice on creating a workspace fit for the future of your business goals, our team will happily help. 

Email us at furntiure@fenns.co.uk