Because the nature of work has dramatically changed in every industry throughout the world, workspace design and architecture has evolved, too. Many years ago, employees moved around a lot, whether that’s going to the next room to hold a team meeting, running to the next building to hand-deliver important documents, or even traveling to a client’s place of business.
While a significant amount of that kind of physical labor is still being done today, technology has significantly made things easier and faster. Important documents are now digitized and sent through email, meetings can be done through call or video conferencing, recruitment can be accomplished through HR software, and collaboration can be achieved through many different apps. Plus, what was once done by multiple machines can now be accomplished by a single, mobile computer – the laptop.
And with all these technological improvements affecting the way business is done, come the changes in the work environment. But of course, today’s workspace design is highly influenced by those of the past, from the open offices of the 1950s when smoking inside offices was the norm and the cubicles of the 1960s that encouraged privacy, to the glass windows of the 80s and the coworking spaces of the 2000s to today’s wellness-centered offices.
As such, commercial properties for rent or sale have adjusted to the demands, especially since a lot of businesses are taking a cue from creative tech companies that have revolutionized their environment.
Google, for instance, is known as one of the best tech companies to work for. Why? Because you get to experience what it’s like to work in Googleplex, their massive facility in California where you can have free access to state-of-the-art amenities. Fitness gym, sports facilities, massage rooms, and kitchens that serve yummy and healthy meals are just a few of what Googleplex offers its employees.
Of course, Apple is never far behind. Its eco-friendly tech office is aptly nicknamed “the spaceship”. The 175-acre property features 9,000 drought-resistance trees, meadows, ponds, and gardens so employees can feel relaxed and one with nature amidst all the work. Would you feel stressed at work if you’re in an office such as this? Maybe not.
The social media giant, Facebook, has a gigantic facility as well that features modern architecture and outdoor art installations that truly encourages creative thinking. Not just that – they have lounges and relaxation corners where employees can decompress. And if they need to go from one building to the other? They can ride a bike or use the tram for free!
Microsoft is another tech company that sets the bar high when it comes to sophisticated workspaces that are eco-friendly, too. Their 500-acre office complex in Washington are equipped with sensors and building automation systems. Some of their buildings are even powered by renewable energy to encourage employees to be more environmentally conscious. Walkways and roads between buildings are designed for biking or walking, to prompt employees to move around and stay fit.
Meanwhile, Salesforce and Amazon are companies that are taking office architecture and design to a whole new level. Salesforce, for one, is the tallest office building in San Francisco and is considered to be a famous landmark in the area. Its top nine floors have LED lights that give passersby and tourists a nightly light show.
Amazon’s glass dome biospheres, on the other hand, has drawn people’s attention everywhere. In fact, Amazon’s office has become a tourist destination. Just be sure to book your tour in advance to see the amazing architecture and interiors.
Now, with all the tech improvements that have been going on and with the way these tech companies are setting the bar, you must be wondering: What’s the future of workspace? Check out this infographic that details the evolution of workspaces and the various features that employees may start to look for in their work environment.
About the author: Jennifer Dela Cruz spent eight years in real estate, with six years in commercial leasing and facility management. She is now the leasing director of Figari handling leasing and business development. Her charisma and dynamic attitude certainly make her the life of the party. In her free time, she enjoys going to the beach and getting a tan.
