Great Minds Don't Work Alike

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Moving Beyond Dilbert

By K.L. Minors

The primary needs of a work environment continue to in? uence the latest design principles, but it takes more than open ?oor plans, good lighting, green materials and the latest technology to get the job done. 
     Interior environments are constantly evolving, and sometimes a trend that solved one problem ends up causing another, according to Robi Kaseman, director of the interior environments group at Williams + Paddon Architects + Planners Inc. in Roseville. “People have lived in these (open space) environments for some time,” she says. “They realize that along with the positives of team building and collaboration come negatives, such as lack of privacy, increased noise and distractions. Spaces are being tweaked to accommodate this reality.”

Where’s the Go-To Room?
Hard-walled of? ces, known as “go-to of?ces,” are one way of addressing the privacy issue. Any worker can use one of these undedicated of?ces for a con?dential conversation or to work without distractions for a set period of time, and then go back to their own open area. Unlike “hoteling,” where rooms are reserved by employees who spend more time on the road rather than at a particular physical location, go-to of?ces are intended for people who work on-site all day and sometimes double as conference or multiuse rooms.
     Where privacy needs and space limitations collide, sliding “barn” doors are often deployed to free valuable space taken by the swing of a traditional door. Typically designed with glass, the doors add a visual attraction and allow for a more open feel.  
     New design elements also focus on accessibility, helping to strengthen connections with managers and co-workers in the process. Comfortable seating areas, or “break-out” spaces, strategically placed in central or high-traf?c areas, allow for impromptu meetings. This tactic can be used whether you have the luxury of a new space or are working in the con? nes of an old facility with little ?exibility.
Continued...

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