What is the Best Alternative to an Open Plan Office Layout?

What is the Best Alternative to an Open Office Layout?

Open office layouts have become increasingly popular over the past decade. The idea behind these layouts is that they foster collaboration, communication, and creativity in the workplace. However, many workers find open offices distracting and stressful. The noise, lack of privacy, and constant interruptions can make it challenging to focus on tasks. Fortunately, there are alternatives to the open office layout that can create a more productive and peaceful work environment. In this blog post, we'll explore some of the best alternatives to the open office layout and explain their benefits.

PRIVATE OFFICES

The most traditional alternative to an open office layout is to provide private offices for employees. Private offices offer workers the ability to shut their doors and block out distractions. Employees can personalise, organise, and control their environment, giving them more autonomy and a sense of ownership over their workspace. Additionally, private offices provide a quiet space for phone calls, meetings, and focused work. This environment helps reduce anxiety and stress and increases productivity and job satisfaction.

private executive office space

Cubicles

Cubicles have had a bad reputation for several decades, mostly due to their association with the "corporate cube farm." However, modern cubicles have evolved and offer many advantages over an open office layout. Cubicles provide partial barriers for visual and auditory privacy while allowing for a sense of openness and collaboration. They can also be customised to meet employees' individual needs, including adjustable height, lighting, and soundproofing materials. Additionally, cubicle layouts are highly customisable, providing the flexibility to accommodate the unique needs and workflows of different teams.

busy open plan office with men walking through

busy open plan office with men walking through

Activity-based workspaces

Activity-based workspaces (ABWs) are a new trend in office design, offering a more dynamic and adaptable environment. ABWs divide an office into different zones, each designed for specific tasks. For example, there could be a zone for quiet focus work, another for collaborative meetings, and a third for relaxation and rejuvenation. This design ensures that employees can pick and choose the environment that suits their work style while avoiding noisy distractions. The flexibility of ABWs also maximises the use of shared spaces, which reduces the overall footprint of an office.

Satellite offices

As remote work becomes more prevalent, satellite offices are becoming a popular alternative to centralised open office layouts. Satellite offices provide a private and focused workspace to those who need it without the need for a commute. They can be designed to be simple, with just a few desks or more elaborate with meeting rooms, event spaces, and other amenities. Additionally, satellite offices are ideal for teams that work on a project-basis, allowing them to move to different locations on a mission-by-mission basis.

Office-in-an-office

Office-in-an-office (OIO) is a concept in which entire offices are brought into another office space. This idea is modelled after the co-working spaces that offer private offices within a shared open office layout. OIOs provide a perfect balance between privacy and collaboration, allowing a group of employees to work in private while still being connected to the larger community. By providing access to shared amenities like conference rooms, kitchens and printers, workers have the best of both worlds.

Open office layouts, while trendy, have significant drawbacks that hinder worker productivity, satisfaction, and well-being. The best alternative to an open office layout depends on the specific needs and goals of a company. From offering private offices to providing activity-based workspaces, there are several effective ways to design an office space that fosters collaboration and creativity while avoiding distractions. By incorporating one or more of these alternatives, employers can create an adaptable and dynamic workplace that supports their team's needs and promotes their success. Whatever your needs are, our experienced team can help put together an office furniture plan that works for your staff members. Get in touch with us today!

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Bethlehem Baptist Church / Staff

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Matt Stevenson / CEO / HSM Group

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Kevin Marsh / Interior fit-out Project Manager / Property and Project Consulting Ltd

“Modern Office provided a range of height-adjustable desking, storage, and meeting room furniture for our WRC project. We found the team to be cooperative and flexible, and the risk management they applied during the Covid-19 lockdown meant we were kept informed of progress. A feature of the service provided was the support they provided during the installation phase, their on-site crew was outstanding and delivery and installation of furniture was achieved on time, every time.”

Kate / Chow Hill Architects Ltd

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Annmarie Lee / General Manager Growers / Seeka

"Working with Modern Office was a really good experience. We required a complete fit out of new furniture for our new premises and I would go as far as to say they were the best contractor we used in the whole build. The service was outstanding – very professional and approachable. We are very happy with the products and the advice provided, and the staff feedback has been positive. I have already recommended Modern Office to others."

Melissa McBride / Office Manager / Hawkins

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Kieron Wain / National Projects Manager / SSA New Zealand

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