Flexible styles of working are being adopted by businesses everywhere, thanks to the benefits they bring to productivity and wellbeing. Here at Harlow business Centre, our rental office spaces are the perfect blank canvas for any flexible workspace. In this blog post, we’ll be looking at five things that make a great flexible office, and how to adapt it to your organisation.

Moveable Furniture

Depending on how many people are in the office at any one time, and how your workforce grows, having moveable furniture allows your space to evolve with your team. Lightweight desks, chairs and tables can easily be relocated, should you wish to change the layout to suit your needs. Many employees enjoy changing up their workspaces occasionally, as changing their place in a room can aid creativity, wellbeing, and a sense of autonomy. Standing desks can automatically move from a sitting to a standing position, so workers can shift their position as and when they wish.

Breakout & Quiet Spaces

If team members are carrying out more focussed work, racing towards a deadline, require confidentiality for a conference call, or simply need silence to concentrate, having a quiet place to retreat to can make all the difference. Many companies create sound-proof pods, booths, and breakout rooms that can be used for everything from meetings and brainstorming sessions to phone calls, and quiet zones.

Clutter-Free Storage

Many experts agree that keeping a space tidy and free from clutter is great for productivity and clearer thinking. Having designated spaces for files, cables, extra equipment and personal belongings can prevent extra stress by ensuring everything your team needs is on hand at a second’s notice. If you have a hot-desking arrangement, it’s a great idea to assign each team member their own shelf or cupboard for coats and bags, so they can ensure nothing gets left behind.

Relaxation Spaces

If you have a kitchen, or a break-out space for your team to spend lunchtimes and breaks, make it as relaxing and informal as possible, to create distance from work. Well-rested employees do better work, and adapting your space to promote restfulness can have a big positive impact. Consider placing comfortable sofas and beanbags in this space, playing calming music, or placing plants and greenery in the area to maximise a sense of wellbeing.

Good Remote Connection

With remote work being a key fixture in how many companies now work, keeping everyone connected allows your employees more freedom to work where they wish. Invest in top quality broadband, so your team can work from home, a co-working space, or the local library or coffee shop without worrying about the internet cutting out or compromised data security. Take some time to consider which communication software will work best for your company. Getting feedback from your employees about what works and what doesn’t will help you make the most informed decision.

Harlow Business Centre offers a range of flexible office spaces to rent on terms that work for you and your business. Fully managed by our professional team, each space can be adapted in the best way that works for you. To find out more about our spaces, please reach out to our team using the contact details listed here. You can also get some inspiration by looking at our Gallery.