Are modern offices no longer just a place to work?

Today, office space is becoming a reflection of a company’s values, culture and aspirations. How are social media trends shaping the look of our workplaces? How do acoustics or lighting affect employees’ daily productivity? Answers to these questions, as well as many other fascinating insights into modern office design, await you in this article.

From tiles and neon to open spaces – how have office interiors changed over the past decades?

When we think of an office from the 1980s, we probably see before our eyes images of dark wood partitions, tiles on the floor, neon lights and typewriters standing on every desk. Those were the days when open spaces were still a distant vision, and the idea of shared office space sounded almost like science fiction.

The leap to the 1990s brought us more “corporate” interiors, where metallic gray dominated, and computers became an indispensable part of every workstation. It was a time when offices became more organized, and ergonomic concepts began to influence workstation design.

As we entered the new millennium, there was a noticeable push to create more employee-friendly spaces. Plants, relaxation areas and more “homey” touches were appearing. Many employers recognized that employees’ creativity and productivity increase when they feel comfortable.

The last decade has brought us a revolution of open spaces, coworking spaces and offices with multiple zones – from quiet corners for working, to meeting spaces, to relaxing rooftop terraces. Increasingly, the design of office spaces is all about flexibility, the ability to adapt the space to current needs, and attention to the well-being of employees.

Looking back, the evolution of office interiors has been an amazing journey from austere, functional spaces to spaces that inspire, motivate and allow us not only to work, but also to grow and relax. What will the next decade bring us? One thing is certain – offices will constantly change, adapting to the needs of people and rapidly developing technology.

#OfficeGoals – how is social media defining modern workspaces?

You’re browsing Instagram during your coffee break and pass by photos of beautifully decorated office spaces – plants hanging from the ceiling, desks with uninterrupted views of the city, walls in pastel colors. Have you ever wondered how much influence social media has had on how offices look today?

It started with tentative posts on platforms such as Pinterest and Instagram, where interior designers shared their concepts. In a short time, companies began to see the potential that these platforms brought. Offices ceased to be just workplaces – they became showcases for companies, boasting their modern and creative approach.

But what really drives this trend? People love to surround themselves with beauty, but social media is about more than that. It’s about inspiration, a sense of belonging and a desire to be part of a certain community. When an employee posts a photo of their office, they are bragging not only about the aesthetics of the interior, but also about the company’s culture and values.

What’s more, social media has become an invaluable tool for companies in attracting talent. Young professionals are no longer just looking for an attractive salary – they want to work in places that inspire, develop and offer more than just four walls and a desk.

Social media has not only changed the way we perceive offices, but has also influenced what our expectations of workspaces are. In the digital age, when every detail is at our fingertips and can be shared in a second, attention to the aesthetics and functionality of the office has become more important than ever. The next time you see a beautiful photo of an office on Instagram, think about what’s behind the image and how it has influenced the working world as we know it today.

When an office tells a story – how do interiors reflect the soul of a company?

Walking through the doors of some offices, you feel like you are entering a completely different world. This is no accident. These spaces are designed to reflect the company’s DNA. But how exactly do you translate a company’s mission, values and culture into furniture, colors and interior design?

Let’s start with the fact that every company is different – it has its own history, character and unique set of values. These very elements should be the starting point for any interior designer. If a company is focused on innovation, this may be reflected in modern solutions, technological gadgets and spacious arrangements. On the other hand, a company with a long tradition and history can use vintage furniture, classic details or references to past decades.

Many companies choose to place items in the office that are directly related to their business. A furniture manufacturer may have a desk made from leftover materials from production, while an advertising agency may opt for a creative wall with murals depicting their most important campaigns.

Another important aspect is openness and accessibility. Companies that focus on transparency and collaboration often opt for open spaces where employees can freely communicate and exchange ideas.

Finally, there is the issue of comfort. Companies that treat their employees as their most valuable resource strive to create a space that is functional, cozy and inviting to spend time in.

The interior of an office is first and foremost a company’s showcase. This is where its values, mission and culture are reflected. That’s why it’s so important that thoughtful interior design is in line with what we want to convey to the world about our organization. The soul of the company enclosed within four walls – this is the idea that all modern companies should follow.

Between comfort and productivity – when the office becomes our second home

When you think of an office, what image appears before your eyes? A classic desk, a computer, a pile of documents? Or maybe a cozy couch, colorful pillows and potted plants? More and more companies are recognizing the need to create work spaces that will remind employees of their homes. Why?

• Sense of belonging: When the interior of an office is cozy, an employee feels at home there. This reduces stress, improves mood and makes it easier to focus on tasks.

• Increasing productivity: Studies show that an environment that is close and familiar to us can increase our efficiency. Instead of spending time adjusting to a new environment, an employee can focus on his or her work.

• Flex workspaces: Today’s offices often offer a variety of spaces – from classic desks, to lounge areas, to quiet rooms for concentration. This allows each employee to choose the space that is most comfortable for them.

• Maintaining a balance between work and personal life: In an office that resembles home, it’s easier to balance work duties with a moment of relaxation. A coffee break in a cozy kitchen is enough to recharge your batteries and return to work with renewed energy.

Creating an office that resembles home is first and foremost a concern for the well-being of employees. This approach translates into job satisfaction, loyalty to the company and overall team atmosphere.

Make your office a place where employees will want to spend their time. Remember, investing in your employees’ comfort and well-being more than pays off in the form of their engagement, productivity and dedication. When an employee feels at home, the whole company benefits.

Preparation is half the battle – secrets of effective pre-project consultations

Every designer knows that the success of a project begins even before the first line is drawn. Pre-design consultation is the moment when we gather all the necessary information that will help create the interior of our dreams. But what questions to ask so that no important detail is overlooked?

1. Purpose of the project: Why do you decide to make changes? Is it to refresh the space, adapt it to new needs or perhaps change its function?

2. Budget: what is your financial framework? This is an important question to determine the scope of work and tailor the project to the investor’s capabilities.

3. Functionality: What are your main needs and expectations for using the space? Do you need more storage space, meeting areas or perhaps places to relax?

4. Aesthetics: What are your preferences in terms of style and color scheme? Do you have a specific look in mind that you would like to achieve, or do you need guidance from a designer?

5. Personal preferences: What is your favorite style? Are there elements you would definitely like to see in a project?

6. Limitations and challenges: Are there any technical or architectural limitations that need to be considered?

7. Implementation time: When do you plan to start and finish the work?

Remember that the pre-design consultation is not only a time for answers, but also for asking questions. If you have doubts about any aspect of the project, go ahead and ask. A good designer will be happy to dispel your doubts and suggest the best possible solutions. It’s a collaborative effort to create an optimal space. Start with a well-thought-out consultation, and the success of the project is almost guaranteed!

Modern offices in the era of digitization – the role of technology in shaping the workspace

Office spaces have been evolving for years, adapting to the changing demands and needs of employees. However, in the last decade, we have witnessed dynamic changes that are largely driven by the development of technology. When we talk about technology in the office, what comes to mind is not only advanced equipment, but also specific solutions and services that make work more efficient.

There’s no denying that solutions such as Cloud and DataCenter are gaining momentum in the world of modern offices. In the era of Big Data and the Internet of Things (IoT), future offices will increasingly depend on the ability to process massive amounts of data in real time. ITH is at the forefront of this transformation, helping organizations transform their office spaces into smart, connected environments.

A well-designed office is not only an aesthetically pleasing space, but above all a functional one, which is why ITH often takes part in office interior projects while designing WiFi wireless networks, cable closets and fiber optic connections – so that the office can function with high-speed Internet access for businesses. WiFi networks at ITH are most often built as an ITH NaaS WiFi service. With this in mind, we can expect the office of the future to be a place where technology serves aesthetics, and aesthetics emphasize the innovation of technology. This harmonious combination will make our workplaces more productive, integrated and, above all, human-friendly. ITH, by all accounts, will be at the center of this exciting evolution.

Are today’s office spaces no longer just task areas? – Summary

Modern offices are becoming more than just a place to perform professional duties. In their interiors, one can see echoes of thoughtful aesthetics, inspiration from social media or a reflection of a company’s culture. With thoughtful design, offices are gaining character, and modern technologies are making daily work easier. They are not only spaces for work, but also for life and self-expression.