Workspace Design Show Amsterdam

On 5 and 6 November, Mark Willems, the workspace advisor of CONIX RDBM Architects, visited the 2-day Workspace Design Show in Amsterdam. This event unites the workplace interiors community to explore new ideas, source smart solutions, and connect with peers shaping the future of work.

The interesting panelists in the Occupiers Forum shared and openly discussed their experiences in rolling out their workplace strategy, working around expectations of their employees. The shift towards working multiple days from home led many companies to less than 50% occupation at the office. Due to having peaks in occupation, on Tuesdays and Thursdays, it challenges servicing good workplaces, not being overcrowded - as well as not being too empty. Spreading the occupancy during the week is key to balance the quantity of office space needed. The correct size of the offices serves financial goals whilst empty offices do not help in being sustainable as a company.

Trends of wellbeing and being attractive as an employer is an international shift from a global approach, with over-standardized office floors with a one-size-fits-all approach. Exploring the modern workplace to fall in love with, suit diverse and inclusive needs, engaging experience, foster local cultures drives discussions to the takeaways of the Workspace Design Show.

An office needs to welcome your employees, make them proud of the business and seek connection with their team, department, and company, as they want to be part of a bigger whole.

The future office needs to bridge culture and seniority with the needs and expectations of the next generations. Interesting examples were given towards inclusivity, gender equality, culture, new habits and the use of technology and Artificial Intelligence. New ideas and adopting AI in the workplace are key for the need of younger generations to “work smarter, not harder”.

It was a great event that gave insights from national and international perspectives. It enables us to reflect on our own workplace designs and inspires us to design even better workplaces. Combined with our many happy clients, and positive feedback on our office designs, we believe our customized approach and in-depth experience of our team will design with impact for your organization.