Feature


desking kplace


Experts say businesses may have to compromise to help employees to feel comfortable in the office


“I’m sure that this pandemic is going to have a big influence on office design one way or another,” said Ashley.


“Designers will be looking for smooth surfaces, without patterns or ridges, that are easy to clean. There will be more use of laminates and of high-tech carpets which don’t cling on to dust and germs. We will undoubtedly see new products on the market for this exact reason. The same goes for fabrics used in curtains and blinds, even cleanable wallpaper and


anti-bacterial ceiling tiles. These are all important issues because people have got used to working at home and if employers want to tempt people back into the office, they will need to create an environment they feel happy in.”


One important factor that he predicts will not be compromised, however, is sustainability. Ashley said: “The pandemic has been like a reset button for humanity. The positive impact our absence has had on the world around is clear to see. It’s made us all think about what matters and that will only strengthen resolve to be sustainable in future and the circular economy principles will be at the heart of that. “The public will want the environment to be considered in everything that businesses do, and that includes the design of the workspace and how employees are expected to work. There are some big changes ahead for all of us.”


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