Multifunctional Rooms: Designing Spaces that Adapt to Your Needs
The work environment has changed drastically over the past four to five years. Many companies that shifted from a traditional set-up to a complete work-from-home model have now moved into a hybrid middle ground. This increased popularity of a hybrid working model has demanded more flexibility, creativity, and multifunctional uses when it comes to the workspace. These adaptable environments need to be designed to perform for many various needs including a quiet place for focused work, board meetings, and a collaborative team gathering, all over the course of an eight hour work day. Let’s explore what a multifunctional workspace is, its advantages and benefits, and how to arrange your office space to create a work environment that can do it all.
What Is A Multifunctional Room?
A multifunctional workspace is a flexible office concept that is flexible and versatile, allowing it to be efficiently used for a variety of needs. It allows employees to switch the office design or space for different work modes and uses such as for meetings, individual focus sessions, or presentations. Often these workspaces will be equipped with the latest technology such as smart TVs to allow collaboration with employees onsite and remotely. These spaces foster creativity, collaboration, and innovation all while limiting the real estate footprint within an office.
The Benefits of a Multifunctional Room In A Workspace
Flexibility and the ability to adapt the space according to employee needs
Every day is different, and the needs of a company can change frequently. Having a multifunctional room in a workspace provides the flexibility needed to adapt to changing business needs with little to no changes. Whether it is having modular furniture that can be changed easily and quickly between uses or a smartboard that has multiple functions, having a space that can be modified for any use is important.
Sparks creativity and increases productivity
Having a space that is open and easy to change can spark creativity among your team. Being able to modify the environment depending on the use can reduce stress, increase concentration and productivity, and encourage innovative ideas that can help your business grow. Multifunctional rooms can also be used as quiet rooms for concentration or breakout rooms for team brainstorming sessions.
A great use of space, especially in smaller offices
One space that can be used for multiple purposes helps companies of all sizes optimize their workspace. Instead of needing individual meeting rooms, breakout rooms, offices, and quiet areas, having one or two spaces that can be quickly modified for any of these purposes is a gamechanger.
Reduces overhead costs
With rent costs increasing, getting the most out of each square foot is critical. Having a multifunctional office space lets you optimize the space by having one room that has multiple uses. Additionally, it can reduce the amount of furniture and other equipment that would be needed in a larger office space. This, in turn, can help reduce rent and other associated overhead costs without sacrificing functionality.
What To Consider When Designing A Multifunctional Room For Your Office
Add versatile furniture
With a multifunctional room, having versatile furniture that can be easily reconfigured for any purpose is key. Consider adding lockable wheels on desks and chairs to make changing the layout of the room fast and easy. Add adjustable desks that can be set to various heights to give employees the option of sitting or standing while working or giving a presentation. Having furniture that can transform the space with little to no effort will ensure that the room will serve many purposes.
Include smart technology
Technology is constantly evolving and can enhance the functionality of this type of space. Adding systems that make it easy to control the computer, monitors, speaker volume, room temperature, and more increase productivity and make it easier to switch between different room uses. Invest in good microphones and cameras to allow your in-person team to collaborate with others remotely.
Make good use of practical storage options
In a room that serves many purposes, clutter can be a distraction and cause a multifunctional room to be impractical. Adding cabinets, hidden storage compartments, baskets, and other organizational systems help the workspace to remain tidy and clean.
Consider acoustics
A multifunctional office space is used for both quiet and discussion-based work. Adding acoustic panels or walls into the space will help reduce noise from being carried throughout the entire office while the space is used for noisy meetings or team breakouts.
Ensure comfort
Even in a functional space, it is important to ensure a comfortable working environment for your employees. Add comfortable seating, cushions, natural lighting, and simple but pleasing decor to make sure the space is peaceful and a motivating place to work in.
A multifunctional room in an office space is a great way to encourage collaboration and creativity while meeting the needs of your team. Having a space that can easily transform in minutes from a quiet work station to a meeting room with smart technology not only saves valuable floor space but also creates a more dynamic workspace. Companies of any size will benefit from a modern and multi-use space that sparks innovation and productivity. Ready to start designing the multifunctional room of your dreams? The team at Interior Fusion is ready to get started!
