Today, more companies are adopting the idea of flexible spaces as we enter new ways of working, leading to the rise of flexible office spaces.
Flexible workplaces are a modern concept that has revolutionised the traditional way of working; This space provides an innovative and versatile option to organisations and people who need a place to work. In this blog, we’ll explore the definition of flexible office spaces, what they offer, and their benefits.
What is a Flexible Workspace?
Flexible workspaces can be understood as a modern workplace solution that allows individuals and businesses to work in a versatile and adaptable environment. Unlike traditional offices with fixed layouts and long-term leases, flexible workspaces are designed to meet the diverse needs of today’s workforce.
This includes a range of workspace options like private offices, hot desks or dedicated desks, meeting rooms, and breakout spaces that will take the experience of working to another level.
Flexible Office Space v/s Traditional Workplace.
But how are these types of working spaces different from traditional ones? Well, Flexible office spaces and traditional workplaces differ in several key aspects.
Traditional workplaces have fixed layouts, assigned desks, long complex lease terms, a hierarchical structure, while flexible workspaces prioritise versatility and adaptability with open floor plans and various work areas; Also, traditional workplaces often involve long-term lease agreements, limiting scalability.
Flexible workspaces provide a range of amenities and services, including furnished spaces, high-speed internet and cleaning services relieving businesses of maintenance responsibilities.
Unlike traditional, flexible offices foster a sense of community by bringing professionals from different industries together. They also focus on work flexibility, promoting work-life balance and well-being by offering options for remote work and flexible schedules.
Benefits of a Flexible Workplace
A flexible work environment offers numerous benefits to individuals and businesses; In fact, 83.2% of Australian workers consider flexibility in terms of working hours important (1). Some of the key benefits this type of workplace offers include:
Work-life balance.
Flex workspaces focus on work-life balance by allowing people greater control over their schedules. This flexibility helps employees to manage personal commitments better, reduce commuting time, and create a healthier integration of work and personal life.
Improved productivity and creativity.
Flexible work environments have been found to boost productivity and stimulate creativity. Companies that offer options such as remote work or flexible hours help their employees to work in environments where they feel most inspired and productive leading to enhanced performance and innovative thinking.
Lower levels of workplace stress.
The flexibility provided can help reduce work stress. Employees can adapt their work arrangements to suit their needs, reducing burnout, improving mental well-being, and creating a healthier work environment.
Enhance engagement with work.
When workers have the freedom to choose their work settings and schedules, they often experience higher levels of engagement.
Flexible workplaces empower people to take ownership of their work and tailor it to their preferences, increasing motivation and commitment.
Create networking and collaboration opportunities.
Flexible workplaces bring together professionals from different companies and industries, encouraging networking and collaboration. The shared spaces and community provide moments to connect with like-minded individuals, expanding professional networks and encouraging knowledge exchange and cooperation.
Contribute to employee satisfaction and retention.
The flexibility and autonomy offered by flexible workplaces contribute to higher employee satisfaction levels. When employees feel valued and have the flexibility to meet personal needs, they are more likely to be satisfied with their work environment, leading to increased loyalty and retention.
Examples of Flexibility in the Workplace
Flexibility in the workplace can take various forms depending on the type of benefits companies want to give their employees.
This flexibility includes flexible working hours, remote work options, flexible locations, job sharing, flexible leave policies, workload flexibility, dress code flexibility, flexible career paths, flexible breaks, and flexible communication and collaboration tools.
But, another flexibility at workplace examples includes office features to improve workstations like
- Open Plan Layouts: Incorporate open plan layouts that promote employee collaboration and communication. These layouts provide a sense of openness and flexibility, allowing for easy reconfiguration and adaptation to changing needs.
- Shared Amenities: Offer shared amenities that enhance the work experience. These amenities may include communal areas, kitchen spaces, breakout rooms, and shared meeting rooms. They provide opportunities for social interaction, informal meetings, and colleague networking.
- Adaptable Workstations: Flexible offices should be easily adjusted and personalised to accommodate different working preferences. Ergonomic chairs or dedicated desks are common elements that help employees to customise their workspace for maximum comfort and productivity.
- Flexible Furniture: Furniture plays a crucial role in supporting the dynamic nature of work. The furniture should be modular, lightweight, and easy to reconfigure. Flexible seating options, such as movable chairs and collaborative desks, allow employees to choose the seating arrangements that best suit them throughout the day.
- Technology Integration: This includes high-speed internet, video conferencing capabilities, smart boards, and charging stations. Technology integration ensures that employees can work efficiently and stay connected regardless of their location within the workspace.
- Wellness Considerations: This may include natural lighting, indoor plants, dedicated quiet areas, coffee stations and wellness rooms for relaxation. These features promote a healthier and more pleasant work environment.
Flexible Coworking Spaces Nowadays
Reports show that: “About 12% of all commercial office stock in Australia will be used for flexible coworking space by 2030” (2), so it’s fair to say this is a growing industry.
“In Australia, there will be at least 374 coworking spaces by the end of the current year 2023. (…) In 2022, Sydney will be the focal location for the sector in the country, with more than 205 co-working spaces, followed by Melbourne with 138 available spaces and Perth and Adelaide with 16 and 15 public co-working spaces, respectively.” (3)
Flexible coworking spaces have become increasingly popular in today’s business landscape. These shared workspaces offer professionals from various industries a flexible and collaborative environment to work and connect with like-minded individuals.
With the rise of remote work and the gig economy, flexible coworking spaces provide a convenient solution for freelancers, entrepreneurs, and small businesses seeking a professional setting without the long-term commitments and overhead costs associated with traditional office spaces.
Discover a new way to work.
Flexible spaces offer a range of conveniences, networking opportunities, and a vibrant community, fostering creativity, productivity, and a sense of belonging. As the demand for work flexibility continues to grow, flexible coworking spaces have emerged as a dynamic and adaptable solution for professionals looking to thrive in today’s evolving work landscape.
At Work inc, we have crafted inspiring coworking office space that encourages collaboration and community.
Boost your productivity with our amazing amenities, dedicated workstations for individuals, and private office pods for groups. Plus, enjoy our amazing cafe station!
Learn more about our space, famous for its breathtaking chandelier that catches your eye as you approach the Sydney Harbour Bridge from North Sydney, McMahons Point, Neutral Bay, or Cammeray.
(1) Australia Co-working Office Spaces Market Size & Share Analysis – Industry Research Report – Growth Trends. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.mordorintelligence.com/industry-reports/australia-co-working-office-spaces-market
(2) (N.d.). Retrieved from https://www.randstad.com.au/hr-news/attracting-recruiting-talent/future-flexible-work/
(3) 17, A. C., & Cheung, A. (2019). Retrieved from https://www.commercialrealestate.com.au/news/coworking-office-space-in-australia-to-triple-by-2030-report-finds-59940/
