Current data also suggests that around 60% of UK office workers wish to alternate between working from home and the office when it is safe to do so. Many businesses will likely be forced to revisit previous flexible working policies conscious of the lack of appetite for the five day working week in the office amongst employees.
But the office will always remain. It just needs to be reimagined.
Focus on employee health
Safe working is essential for offices in the current climate. Changes include desk spacing, hygiene measures, cleaning procedures, a clutter-free space, and a change of mindset towards employee health and safety.
The mental health of employees is also crucial and has been a key topic during the pandemic. Some people have thrived working from home, others may have experienced loneliness and isolation, as well as increased anxiety. Employee mental health must be a key consideration for the offices of the future and increased natural light can play an important role in this.
The importance of natural light
According to the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine, natural light in the morning can significantly improve mental well-being in relation to depression, agitation, sleep, circadian rest-activity, and seasonal affective disorder (SAD). But how does this translate to office spaces?
Employees want natural light in the office
The first thing to note is that natural light is something employees want and feel they need at work.
One study found that it was the number one office perk desired by staff, while the Future Workplace Employee Experience Study found that 78% of employees feel that it improves their well-being, while 70% cited it as assisting with improved performance at work.