The way we work has changed dramatically in recent years. With the rise of remote work and hybrid work models, workplaces in Australia are undergoing a transformation in terms of fitout and design requirements. In this article, we'll take a look at the latest statistics and research on how remote work is impacting workplace design in Australia and gain some insights from our expert team.
The Rise of Remote Work in Australia
The Australian workforce has experienced a significant shift towards remote work in recent years. As of December 2021, there were 1.3 million people working from home, representing 9% of employed persons in Australia (Australian Bureau of Statistics, 2022). This trend is expected to continue, with many employers adopting hybrid work models that allow employees to work from home and the office.
At Outkast, we have seen firsthand how this shift towards remote work is impacting the demand for workspace design and fitout services. As more employees work from home, they require flexible and adaptable workspaces that can support their needs.
Trends in Workplace Design
A major trend in workplace design is the adoption of smart building technology. According to the Smart Building Council of Australia's 2022 Smart Buildings and the Future of Work report, "smart buildings have the potential to enhance productivity, reduce operational costs and improve occupant wellbeing" (Smart Building Council of Australia, 2022). This means that workplaces need to be equipped with the latest technology to support remote workers and ensure that employees are able to work efficiently and comfortably.
At Outkast, we believe it's crucial to properly allocate budget for upgrading IT foundations that allow for speed, security, resiliency, and reusability. By investing in these foundational elements, businesses can create a strong technology infrastructure that enables them fully leverage emerging technologies to futureproof their business.
Another trend in workplace design is the growing focus on employee wellbeing. According to JLL's Australia Office Outlook Q1 2022 report, "the war for talent is increasingly being fought on the basis of workplace experience, and the focus on employee wellbeing is a critical part of this" (JLL, 2022). This means that workplaces will need to be designed to support employee mental and physical health, with features such as green spaces, natural light, and ergonomic furniture.
At Outkast, we believe that employee wellbeing should be a top priority for employers. We are seeing an increasing demand for workplaces that offer a range of wellness features, from on-site fitness centers to outdoor spaces. By prioritising employee wellbeing, employers can create workplaces that support the health and wellbeing of their employees.
The Future of Workplace Design
The shift towards remote work and hybrid work models is expected to continue in the coming years. As a result, workplaces will need to be designed to support the needs of remote workers while also providing a productive and engaging environment for employees who work in the office.
At Outkast, we are constantly innovating and exploring new ways to support the changing needs of our clients. We believe that the future of workplace design lies in creating spaces that are adaptable, flexible, and technology-enabled. This means that workplaces will need to be designed with an emphasis on agility, enabling businesses to quickly adapt to changes in the market and the needs of their employees.
If you want to take the first step towards a healthier, more productive workplace, then contact Outkast to schedule your consultation, whether you're in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane or the Gold Coast - we service clients nationally. Our team of experts will work with you to create a customised plan for your workspace, incorporating all of the elements you need to create an engaging environment for employees who work in the office.
References:
-
Australian Bureau of Statistics. (2022). Persons who work from home. Retrieved from https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/labour/employment-and-unemployment
-
JLL. (2022). Australia Office Outlook Q1 2022. Retrieved from https://www.jll.com.au/
-
Smart Building Council of Australia. (2022). Smart Buildings and the Future of Work. Retrieved from https://www.buildingsmart.org.au/
