London office spaces are changing, here’s a look at what your workspace could look like in the future
Does your office have a green space? Does it feature high ceilings? No? Sounds it onto the list of the most forward thinking workspaces built in the city…
An exhibition which is part of New London Architecture’s WRK/LDN Insight study has looked at how and where Londoners will work in the future.
The exhibition showcases spaces leading the way in office architecture, and give an indication of what the office of the near future will look like.
More green spaces
More office spaces will be influenced by biophilic design, which seeks to bring nature into man-made spaces to improve health and mental wellbeing. This installation was designed and completed by Oliver Heath, Kirsty Parker and Elly Deakin for the Interface Showroom for Clerkenwell Design Week ’16, and to inspire visitors to use biophilia within office design.
Multi-use open spaces
Spaces that can be transformed using flexible layouts are becoming more common, encouraging individual working as well as communication among staff.
The Deloitte Digital space “can truly adapt, with plenty of inspiring spaces for concepting sessions and collaboration”, NLA says. Used as a printing works during the years between the world wars, the studios were designed from scratch, and have their own in-house coffee shop.
High ceilings
So long, polystyrene ceiling tiles. High ceilings eliminate claustrophobia and give the illusion of a limitless open space. They also allow more light to fill the room, as they often have ceiling-to-floor windows, just like the workspace at 210 Borough High Street. Designed by architects at Stiff + Trevillion, the project refurbished St. Dunstan's House. New windows and corten steel were used to enhance the building's appearance.
Exposed walls
Loft living isn’t just for Manhattan hipsters. Often giving spaces a creative and a loft-like atmosphere, exposed walls and frameworks have become increasingly popular. The Loom, located in the heart of Whitechapel, is a revitalised Victorian wool warehouse designed by architect Duggan Morris. Original features such as wrought iron pillars and bare brickwork have been faithfully restored while opening up spaces to fill the studios with light.
Minimalism
Stripping away the typical overcrowded look of an office, minimal spaces are less elaborate and more simplistic – creating a clean and clear atmosphere. The prominent triangular One New Oxford Street building embodies this with its distinctive design, created by architects Orms for TH Real Estate.
The exhibition will be on display at the Building Centre until 17 December