Search Results for: environments

Exhibitors to look out for at Workspace Design Show in Amsterdam

Exhibitors to look out for at Workspace Design Show in Amsterdam

This November, Workspace Design Show returns to RAI Amsterdam, Hall 5 with the theme Activate the Senses — transforming the exhibition floor into a vibrant journey through sound, light, texture, and space. Over two inspiring days, 5–6 November 2025, the Benelux workplace design community will gather to explore how multi-sensory design is reshaping the way we work. Alongside 150+ international exhibitors, visitors will encounter interactive features and installations created by the likes of Biophilic Design Academy, Casper Schwarz Architects, UNS, Mecanoo, and Tank Design. (more…)

Adoption of workplace AI is inconsistent and riddled with contradictions

Adoption of workplace AI is inconsistent and riddled with contradictions

New research claims to reveal the significant divides in how organisations are adopting artificial intelligence, with some reporting positive outcomes and others citing fear, risk and job losses.New research claims to reveal the significant divides in how organisations are adopting artificial intelligence, with some reporting positive outcomes and others citing fear, risk and job losses. The study, carried out by The Adaptavist Group as part of its latest Digital Etiquette: Unlocking the AI Gates report, surveyed 900 professionals responsible for introducing and onboarding workplace AI in the UK, US, Canada and Germany. It found a sharp split between the 42 percent of respondents who believe their company’s AI claims are over-inflated and the 36 percent who do not. (more…)

Bloom: Modular comfort for modern workspaces, introduced by Ocee and Four Design

Bloom: Modular comfort for modern workspaces, introduced by Ocee and Four Design

The Bloom modular sofa system from Ocee & Four Design promises a new approach to flexible shared seating, perfect for modern workspaces - no matter how people like to workThe Bloom modular sofa system from Ocee & Four Design promises a new approach to flexible shared seating, perfect for modern workspaces – no matter how people like to work. With single-sided and double-sided seating options, Bloom invites conversation, collaboration and comfort from every angle. Made with 19 different modules, Bloom can adapt alongside the needs of any organisation – evolving with environments to keep pace with ever-changing commercial trends and demands. Featuring active seating zones integrated into the rear of single units, Bloom encourages spontaneous moments of pause. It is ideal for informal interactions in modern workspaces, hospitality and public settings. (more…)

HIMACS shapes are now SCS-Certified for recycled content

HIMACS shapes are now SCS-Certified for recycled content

Now, the full range of HIMACS standard sinks and basins has been officially SCS-certified for containing a minimum of 8 percent pre-consumer recycled content.HIMACS has long been the solid surface material of choice for architects and designers looking for a refined balance of aesthetics, performance, and versatility. Now, the full range of HIMACS standard sinks and basins has been officially SCS-certified for containing a minimum of 8 percent pre-consumer recycled content. This certification adds to the material’s technical and visual appeal by offering an option with enhanced sustainability, without compromising on quality or functionality. (more…)

Return to office policies now more common, but raise people’s expectation of better workplaces

Return to office policies now more common, but raise people’s expectation of better workplaces

The news that Microsoft has introduced a formal hybrid working policy has sparked the usual pointless to and fro on social media about return to office policies, but it would seem for a growing number of firms and their employees, the debate is overThe news that Microsoft has introduced a formal hybrid working policy has sparked the usual pointless to and fro on social media about return to office policies, but it would seem for a growing number of firms and their employees, the debate is over. According to new global research from JLL, 72 percent of employees now view attendance requirements in a positive light, but this shift comes with heightened expectations for workplace quality, flexibility and wellbeing. (more…)

People want performance over quirky features in their offices

People want performance over quirky features in their offices

A new report claims that employees are less interested in quirky office features and more concerned about how well their workplaces support performance.A new report claims that employees are less interested in quirky office features and more concerned about how well their workplaces support performance. Mitie’s latest Productivity Reset Report [registration requires you to receive marketing – you can’t opt out] highlights that while games areas and other recreational facilities may generate headlines, only 14 percent of employees believe such features contribute meaningfully to workplace satisfaction or productivity. In contrast, almost nine in ten (88 percent) said that a safe, well-maintained office is a critical factor in their day-to-day working experience. (more…)

In spite of some headlines, hybrid working is not in decline in the US

In spite of some headlines, hybrid working is not in decline in the US

Gallup’s latest research on working patterns among remote-capable employees in the United States suggests that hybrid working is proving far more resilient than some headlines about a wholesale return to the office would implyGallup’s latest research on working patterns among remote-capable employees in the United States suggests that hybrid working is proving far more resilient than some headlines about a wholesale return to the office would imply. The data shows that hybrid work remains the dominant arrangement and has not significantly declined, even as political and organisational pressure grows to increase in-person attendance. The survey finds that just over half of employees who can work remotely are now in hybrid arrangements. This represents a slight decline from the previous two quarters, falling from 55 percent to 51 percent. (more…)

Redefining the modern workplace: flexibility, zoning, and employee wellbeing

Redefining the modern workplace: flexibility, zoning, and employee wellbeing

The modern workplace is evolving faster than ever. Traditional layouts of rows of desks and enclosed cubicles are giving way to offices designed around flexibility, collaboration, and employee wellbeingThe modern workplace is evolving faster than ever. Traditional layouts of rows of desks and enclosed cubicles are giving way to offices designed around flexibility, collaboration, and employee wellbeing. For organisations seeking to stay ahead, the key lies in thoughtful workspace zoning—creating adaptable environments that respond to how people actually work today. One of the most significant trends shaping office design is flexibility. Work patterns have changed: teams collaborate in bursts, focus deeply in concentrated periods, and switch between in-person and digital modes throughout the day. Workspaces that can transform to meet these changing needs without major disruption are becoming essential. Mobile partitions and modular systems allow offices to create temporary or permanent zones that can adapt in real time, supporting a mix of focused work, collaboration, and social interaction. (more…)

Leadership teams are struggling to cope with the pace of change

Leadership teams are struggling to cope with the pace of change

Executive teams are failing to keep pace with the demands of a world defined by constant disruption, according to a new report.Executive teams are failing to keep pace with the demands of a world defined by constant disruption, according to a new report. The study, from  consultancy Waldencroft, claims that most senior teams remain fragmented and reactive, with only a small proportion taking a strategic, enterprise-wide view. The report, The Executive Readiness Gap, draws on insights from 20 in-depth interviews and 40 surveys with Chief People Officers across a range of complex and international organisations. It suggests that disruption has become a permanent fixture in the business environment, but many leadership teams continue to treat it as episodic—responding only when necessary before trying to return to a previous norm. (more…)

How mentorship and community shape the future of workplace design

How mentorship and community shape the future of workplace design

It is the network of support, mentors, and peers that helps translate a passion for workplace design into long-term impactWhen it comes to interior design, technical skill and creativity are only part of what shapes a designer’s path. Equally important is the network of support, mentors, and peers that help translate a passion for workplace design into long-term impact. For me, this supportive network has been especially meaningful as I began to define my own design values and areas of interest, particularly in the evolving field of workplace design. (more…)

Registration is now open for Europe’s most essential commercial interiors event and talks programme

Registration is now open for Europe’s most essential commercial interiors event and talks programme

Registration is now open for the Amsterdam edition of the  Workspace Design Show, Europe’s most essential workplace design and commercial interiors eventRegistration is now open for the Amsterdam edition of the Workspace Design Show, Europe’s most essential workplace design and commercial interiors event, taking place on 5–6 November 2025 at RAI Amsterdam. This year’s theme, Activate the Senses, invites attendees to experience the power of sensory design in shaping how we feel, focus, and function in the workplace. Bringing together over 5,000 architects, designers, workplace strategists, and commercial interiors professionals, the show will spotlight the ideas, products, and solutions redefining the future of workspaces. (more…)

Better offices for all as occupiers shift focus away from cost cutting

Better offices for all as occupiers shift focus away from cost cutting

New research suggests a worldwide shift in workplace strategy, with portfolio optimisation (better offices basically) now the top priority for corporate real estate leaders, overtaking cost reduction for the first time.New research suggests a worldwide shift in workplace strategy, with portfolio optimisation and better offices now the top priorities for corporate real estate leaders, overtaking cost reduction for the first time. JLL’s 2025 Occupancy Planning Benchmark Report found that 73 percent of respondents identified portfolio optimisation as their main focus, compared with 70 percent who cited cost reduction and improved reporting. (more…)