Industry leaders and design enthusiasts convened at Krost’s Melbourne showroom for a lively panel discussion titled ‘Expanding and Contracting: The Responsive, Adaptable Office’. The event explored the evolving benefits of adaptable office spaces, offering valuable insights into how flexible designs can meet the changing needs of modern workplaces.

The 50-plus attendees shook their brollies and, after a potent potable and some canapes, settled in for the evening discussion. The event began with a welcome and acknowledgment of Country by Krost design manager Carly Krost, who also participated in the panel. Cera Stribley Senior interior designer Melanie Ting moderated the discussion.

The panel included Gray Puksand senior associate Stephanie Rodas, who brought more than 12 years of experience in the design, specialising in commercial, workplace and hospitality sectors to the conversation. Studio Tate director and principal interior architect Alex Hopkins, also contributed, sharing her 10 years of industry expertise..

Key strategies for flexible office spaces

Krost emphasised the importance of designing office spaces that remain flexible and adaptable as organisational needs evolve. She noted the workforce has undergone significant changes due to factors like COVID-19, leading to an increase in remote and hybrid work models. Employers need to create appealing office environments to encourage employees to return.

“People are trying to work out how to best utilise their space, how to invigorate their teams to be in their workplaces,” Krost said. “One of the best starting points for adaptability and flexibility is understanding who is working in that space and engaging with stakeholders—the end users, the client and the people who will be working there.” She warned that failing to understand these needs could result in spaces that become obsolete.

Expansion and contraction

Understanding the requirements of an office brief is crucial for adapting the spatial environment to accommodate an organisation’s evolving needs. This includes selecting furniture with inherent flexibility to adapt to shifting demands, not only for the current team but also with foresight into future needs, whether five or 10 years ahead. In leased spaces, considerations must also include any make-good provisions.

Flexibility in design

Hopkins highlighted the necessity of flexibility and adaptability in current workplace design. “With rising build costs and extended lead times for joinery, we’re compelled to focus on less permanent structures,” she said. “By incorporating loose furniture, we empower clients to easily adjust their spaces as needs change.”

This approach underscores the importance of modular pieces that can evolve over time. Selecting durable items ensures longevity and enhances adaptability, leading to better outcomes for clients and creating more responsive and versatile workspaces.

Built-in versus modular

Rodas discussed the complexities of modern workplace design. “There’s only so much simplification you can do,” she said. “While modular rooms are exciting, they can lead to compliance issues that complicate the process.” To address this, Rodas emphasised the importance of pilot spaces. “We create environments where modular pieces can be tested before full implementation. This helps clients understand the journey from briefing to final design.”

She believes this approach allows suppliers to showcase modifications effectively and find a balance in design complexity. “It’s about finding the balance. How far can you modify something without complicating it?” Rodas sees this trend leading to individualised design guidelines, where pilot projects can result in broader rollouts, becoming the new norm in the industry.

Addressing neurodiversity and hybrid work models

Moderator Ting raised questions about the role of neurodiversity in the design of adaptable office spaces. The panel discussed how office designs can meet functional requirements while enhancing user experience. They also explored how to design hybrid work models that ensure office spaces remain functional and comfortable for both in-office and remote workers.

Viva la paella

Following the insightful discussion, attendees continued networking over drinks and paella provided by the hosts. The shared meal offered an opportunity to further engage with the topics discussed, exchange ideas and build professional connections. The event highlighted the critical role of adaptable design in the modern workplace and provided valuable strategies for professionals navigating these evolving demands.

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