Technology is not the only thing changing at the speed of light these days. In 2015, Millennials were officially the largest generation that entered the workforce, which caused a change in the workplace. Studies have found that more than half of Millennials prefer to work in a place where they can speak to their co-workers. While companies have already opened up to the idea of “shared” or co-working spaces for a couple of years, it seems that the recent college graduates want a bit more than that.
Designing the new offices, inside and outside, in order to meet the needs of younger generations, has made development and architectural firms conclude that it doesn’t have to be expensive and that the work environment can and should stimulate the employee not just intellectually but socially and personally as well.
The following five office trends are generally agreed upon to offer Millennials the space that would cater to their needs, improve their productivity and increase talent retention.
BRING THE COLLEGE WORK/STUDY ENVIRONMENT INTO THE OFFICE
The young generation is about talking and sharing ideas so open spaces are already becoming the rule in office projects. However, interior design companies found out that the “one big room” is not enough anymore. The most desirable spaces are those resembling college study rooms and lounges for their ability to help people collaborate in a more informal setting. Furniture with a “homey” feeling, couches, libraries, art pieces, workshop areas instead of meeting rooms, are a couple of examples of how an open space can be improved.
The idea of being tied to the same chair, as comfortable as it can be, has never been ideal for any employee, so creating “thematic” areas within the company and allowing people to move among them can help break the routine. This organization gives people the option to work from the “library,” “the sun room” or even “the kitchen” or “coffee-bar” during a work day.