Modern open office layout design inspiration with IKEA products

Modern offices with an open plan concept, or without dividers, were initially touted as a way to encourage smoother collaboration and open communication. Many companies embraced this trend because it was thought to break down rigid hierarchies and utilize space more efficiently.

However, over time, this has become a real challenge. Phone calls, colleague chatter, and visual distractions can reduce employee focus on tasks requiring high concentration. Without proper arrangement, the open office concept may sometimes reduce work comfort and employee concentration

This article will discuss how to redesign an open office layout to still support collaboration while providing crucial quiet zones for productivity. Let's look at the practical steps.

The main challenge: How can the open office sacrifice focus and privacy?

The open office does encourage interaction, but the biggest challenge arises when employees need full focus, such as when making important calls or completing reports.

The sound of keyboards, phone conversations, and other noise can disrupt concentration. The lack of both visual and auditory privacy sometimes leads to increased stress and decreased comfort. The key is realizing that the open office is not a perfect solution.

Therefore, the layout needs to be designed with multifunctional areas that provide quiet zones, places where employees can focus without distraction. Finding this balance is the ideal way to create a comfortable and productivity supporting work environment.

Practical tips: Creating balanced focus and collaboration zones

To help you understand the various zones that can be implemented for an open office layout, here are the explanations.

Utilizing the principle of functional zone separation

To achieve a balance between interaction and concentration, one way is to divide the space based on function, known as the Activity Based Working principle. This means each area is created to support a specific activity.

For example, a collaboration zone with large tables and whiteboards for brainstorming, a socialization area with comfortable sofas for breaks or casual conversations, and, no less importantly, focus zones or private booths for tasks requiring high concentration.

With such an arrangement, employees can choose the place that best suits their current work. Noise and distractions are also more controlled, productivity increases, and office space can be utilized more effectively. This method ensures the open office remains comfortable while supporting various work styles.

Smart solution: Using flexible partitions and acoustic materials

Creating a comfortable workspace doesn't always mean building permanent walls. With flexible partition solutions and sound dampening materials, you can separate work areas without losing the open feel.

Use acoustic desk screens or freestanding partitions that are easy to move according to daily activity needs. Besides helping to reduce noise, these partitions also maintain visual privacy while appearing light and modern.

Sound-absorbing curtains can also be a practical alternative for dividing areas without sacrificing natural light.

You can also utilize tall open shelving or modular shelves filled with green plants to make the work atmosphere feel fresher and more natural. This approach keeps the space flexible, comfortable, and easy to adjust as team needs change.

Selecting furniture that supports comfort and layout flexibility

Furniture is an important element in creating comfort and efficiency in an open office. Choose tables and chairs that support layout flexibility while promoting user health.

For example, ergonomic desks that can be height adjusted help employees switch easily from sitting to standing positions, keeping the body active and reducing fatigue.

Modular shelving systems can also be a smart solution. Their easy to reconfigure design makes it simple to adjust the layout according to team needs or project changes.

No less important, ensure the office chairs used have comfortable backrests and support proper posture, so employees can work more focused and productively without the distraction of aches.

Boosting mood and productivity with interior design

The right interior design can make the work atmosphere feel more lively and pleasant. An open office space will feel fresher if it gets enough natural light and good airflow. Also, equip each work area with functional lighting so the room remains bright and comfortable, even at night.

Adding natural touches like houseplants on shelves or in desk corners can help create a sense of calm while refreshing the eyes. Neutral colors and soft textures on furniture or acoustic partitions also help bring a warm and soothing impression.

When the work environment feels comfortable and balanced, employee mood also improves, resulting in a more energetic, focused, and productive team every day.

Realize your ideal open office space with IKEA Interior Design Services

Designing an effective and balanced open office layout can be a complex task, especially when choosing from a variety of available products. For an integrated and directed solution, you can utilize the professional Interior Design Services from IKEA Indonesia.

This service offers expert assistance in analyzing your team's specific needs and implementing an effective open office layout using functional products from the affordable category.

You will receive design advice, product recommendations, and a detailed shopping list tailored to your budget and space size. Get a time saving, integrated, and ready to use solution.

Don't let noise and distractions lower your team's efficiency. Get integrated and affordable space solutions today. Visit the IKEA Interior Design Services and take the first step to design a truly productive open office.