Designing for Tomorrow – The Future of the Office

As we conclude our series on workplace design trends, it’s time to focus on a critical area shaping the future of workspaces: sustainability and inclusivity. A well-designed office doesn’t just improve productivity and employee satisfaction—it also plays a significant role in reducing environmental impact and ensuring that spaces are accessible to all. Here, we explore the environmental impact of design and construction, the need for workplaces to evolve with sustainable practices, and the importance of accessibility and inclusivity in modern office environments.

At Spaceworks, we’re committed to helping businesses create spaces that not only reflect their brand values but also prioritise the well-being of people and the planet. Research shows that 80% of waste and carbon decisions are made in a boardroom, meaning positive impact changes can often be made quite easily with the right knowledge. Sustainability isn’t just a trend—it’s a necessity for businesses looking to thrive in today’s landscape, and there are solutions that achieve both sustainability and cost efficiency.

Environmental Impact of Design and Construction

Designing with sustainability in mind isn’t about striving for perfection or investing beyond what is financially viable for your business. It’s about making informed choices and implementing improvements where possible. The goal isn’t to create a utopian, perfect space but to build a workplace that’s thoughtful, efficient, and aligned with both environmental responsibility and business sustainability. Knowledge is power—by being aware of the various low-carbon products and materials available, such as those with take-back schemes, businesses can make smarter choices that gradually create a wave of positive change. If these options aren’t considered from the start, sustainability often becomes an overlooked element.

Many businesses today are subject to sustainability-linked loans or stakeholder requirements for environmental reporting. If your company is committed to reducing its carbon footprint in daily operations, it can’t turn a blind eye when it comes to the design and construction of your office. The environmental impact of design and construction is one of the most significant factors in your company’s overall sustainability efforts. By ensuring that you’re building with sustainable materials and processes, you align the physical workspace with your broader sustainability goals.

From using recycled materials to reducing waste in the construction process, there are many ways to integrate sustainability into your office design. Importantly, sustainability is often assumed to come with a higher price tag, but this is not always the case. There are solutions and products available that have a positive impact on sustainability without negatively impacting your budget. For instance, the Spaceworks Carbon Calculator has consistently shown that businesses can reduce their carbon footprint by 40% without increasing costs. The key is to start with knowledge—ask the right questions, work with suppliers who prioritise sustainable practices, and explore low-carbon materials that are both affordable and effective.

Creating Sustainable Businesses Through Design Solutions

Sustainability is an ongoing journey, not a one-time fix. For businesses that want to embed sustainability into their DNA, continuous improvement in design and workplace operations is key. Sustainable office solutions go beyond initial design—they require businesses to regularly assess and adapt their spaces to meet evolving needs.

A great place to start is by creating flexible and modular spaces that can easily adapt as your business grows or evolves. Flexible workspaces not only reduce the need for constant refurbishments but also create environments that are better suited to both employees’ well-being and operational efficiency. The World Economic Forum found that sustainable business practices can lead to a 20% reduction in operational costs over time.

Creating a sustainable workplace means aligning with suppliers and contractors who share your commitment to a greener future. This includes sourcing recyclable or renewable materials and ensuring your supply chain upholds best practices in employee care, fair pay, and sustainability. These choices significantly reduce the overall environmental footprint of your office, promoting long-term positive change.
Choosing suppliers that offer take-back schemes allows materials to be reused or recycled at the end of their life cycle, cutting down on waste. In New Zealand alone, the construction sector sends 17,000 tonnes of waste to landfill every day—a figure that is simply unsustainable. Research by the World Green Building Council shows that businesses embracing a sustainable supply chain for construction can reduce carbon emissions by 25%. These decisions are not only essential for reducing environmental impact but also for ensuring cost-efficiency throughout the project.

Practical Tips for Sustainable and Inclusive Workspaces

1. Choose Products with Take-Back Schemes: Select materials that can be returned to manufacturers at the end of their life for recycling or reuse, reducing waste and promoting sustainability.
2. Evaluate Your Supply Chain: Ensure your suppliers follow best practices around employee care, pay, and sustainable sourcing. This helps reduce the carbon footprint of your project while supporting ethical labour practices.
3. Use the Spaceworks Carbon Calculator: Determine the carbon footprint of your fitout projects. The Spaceworks Carbon Calculator shows that, on average, a 40% reduction in carbon emissions can be achieved without any increase in cost.
4. Design for Inclusivity: Incorporate cultural, gender, and LGBTQIA+ considerations into your office design. Ensure accessibility features are in place and create spaces that reflect and respect the diversity of your workforce.
5. Sustainability Without a Price Tag: Don’t assume sustainable design has to come at a premium. Many products offer a positive impact on sustainability without increasing your budget. Make sure to research and ask suppliers about these options.

Ready to Enhance Your Workspace?

At Spaceworks, we understand the importance of creating a work environment that not only meets functional needs but also creates well-being and success. Whether you’re looking to implement health-focused designs or find budget-friendly solutions, our team is here to help you transform your workspace into a place where your employees can thrive.

Reach out to our commercial specialists, Bradley Keys and Jana Stringer, to explore how we can tailor our services to meet your specific needs and budget. They are ready to guide you through the process and help you create a workspace that inspires productivity and well-being.

– Bradley Keys: Tel: 0277001555 Email: bradley@spaceworks.co.nz
– Jana Stringer: Tel: 021 153 3408 Email: jana@spaceworks.co.nz

Let’s work together to design a space that empowers your team and drives success. Get in touch now to start your journey toward a healthier, happier workplace.