Most people see the finished space.

What they don't see is how exposed services, empty floors, and raw potential gradually transform into a workplace designed for connection, collaboration, and everyday moments.

One of the things our team diligently does is visit different coworking spaces. We walk in as curious observers, taking note of every wall, every corner, every material choice. How has this space used art? How does the branding show up? Does it feel alive, or does it feel like a catalogue page?

The answer is almost always the same: art and branding. 

A workplace that gets this right makes people feel something. And that feeling changes how they work.

We unpacked exactly how and why it matters more than most organisations realise.

Inside the premium CEO’S Cabin.

An earthy office designed for focused leadership. The cabin features a curated book wall, a cozy Eames lounge chair for reflection, sustainable custom furniture, and acoustic Shaw Contract Flooring—all coming together to create a space where design meets purpose.

Follow @designstudioasa for more updates.

Photo by @yamini.krishna.photography

ACETECH 2024: The event kicked off with incredible energy, offering a remarkable showcase of the finest in architecture, construction, and design. Our team had the privilege of engaging with industry leaders, exploring innovative technologies, sustainable solutions, and cutting-edge designs that are shaping the future of the built environment. The event was an enriching experience, inspiring new ideas and collaborations. We’re already looking forward to ACETECH 2025!

At the heart of a great workplace is the people who make it thrive. In our recent office project, we incorporated a smart card access system that not only enhances safety but also creates a sense of ease and belonging for everyone who enters. This thoughtful integration reflects our commitment to crafting environments where employees feel secure, valued, and empowered to thrive.

Effort toward developing a sustainable office space is paramount for firms with an interest in the conservation of the environment. Thus, it is crucial to remember that functionality and comfort must not suffer in the pursuit of achieving these elements. So, a balance has to be achieved in terms of concepts and targets of design and planning to achieve success in all these fields. 

In this article, an attempt has been made to expound on the nuances of sustainable contemporary interior design and factors to be taken into account while designing an environment-friendly, effective, and efficient office building.

Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency is one of the key aspects of the top innovative architectural designers that can define the ability of an office to be sustainable. Some strategies to reduce energy consumption include:

Some of the ways of reducing energy consumption include replacing sources of light such as bulbs with energy-efficient sources like LED bulbs and making use of natural light through windows or skylights where possible.

Refrigerators, freezers, and any other office equipment that can be replaced with an ENERGY STAR-labeled model.

Controlling lighting, including using smart lighting and occupancy sensor schemes.

In walls, ceilings, and pipes, proper insulation is needed in order to avoid heat losses.

Moreover, installing solar panels is another way of investing in renewable energy sources.

Water Conservation

Water is a precious resource, so implementing water reduction tactics with the aid of an office space designer is crucial:

Fit shower heads, faucets, toilets, and urinals with low-flow technology.

Sole rainwater is to be used for purposes such as watering plants in the compound.

Co-remind employees on the need to report any leakage as soon as possible.

One option to reduce overall water use is to incorporate a greywater system that can recycle water in the facility.

Indoor Environmental Quality

A well-lit and powered office makes no sense if individuals are sick or have poor ergonomic conditions to sit or stand at work. Key elements to ensure good indoor environmental quality are:

The best way to make sure the place has proper air circulation, and for added benefits, is to use indoor plants.

Allow the interior to be filled with natural light and have an opportunity to get a glimpse of the outside world.

Employ those materials and finishes that emit low or no Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs).

Hire and develop green cleaning policies and implement non-hazardous items.

Keep the temperature and humidity levels of the location to tolerable standards.

For a successful focus work, design areas free of noise.

Layout and Design

The physical layout from the leading modern architecture designer and the design aesthetic of a sustainable office also matter:

Develop working areas that support interactivity.

Select furniture arranged in modular form since they can be rearranged to suit changes in organizational layouts.

Structure the different areas to accommodate quiet work and group work meeting areas.

This entails the adoption of sustainable and recycled building materials.

Add living walls or vertical garden elements.

Place a refurbishing bar with candid eats.

Technology Integration

Lastly, technology plays a major role in creating an efficient and environmentally friendly workplace:

Use devices such as occupancy sensors, light-switch sensors, timers, thermostats, and other smart technologies to control the lighting systems.

Ensure customers avail of high-speed WiFi at a fast and dependable rate across.

Support mobile work arrangements like hot desking by adopting cloud computing.

Please set standard printers to duplex and print in black and white.

Encourage people to use electronic means to share files instead of using the traditional printing method.

Key Areas to Focus

Reception Area

Professional, clean lines with environmental elements and sustainable furniture.

Energy-saving digital signage is one of the solutions.

Individual Workstations

Stand-up desks and chairs with provision for adjustable postures.

Natural light and ventilation or any form of connectivity with the outside environment.

Meeting Rooms

High-tech audio & video equipment to support the hybrid or virtual type of sessions.

Sound insulation and Absorbent wall panels help reduce sound reflection.

Breakout Spaces

Relaxation and socialization areas that are not planned and controlled.

Natural lighting and the possibility of choosing plants as interior decoration.

Other Shared Areas

Kitchen, dining area, lobby, living room.

Design to foster cooperation and priorities as necessary.

Florae, artifacts, and colors related to the company brand.

As seen, the development of an efficient yet eco-friendly office entails coordination among all the key drivers and the integration of knowledge in several fields, including facilities management, information technology, and sustainable architecture in Pune.

The Bottom Line

Creating an inclusive and diverse office environment is more than just a trend—it’s a necessity in today’s world. A well-designed office space that caters to the needs of all employees can significantly impact their productivity, job satisfaction, and overall well-being. Let’s delve into how you can design your office space to be welcoming for everyone.

Understanding Diversity and Inclusion

Diversity and inclusion go hand in hand but are not the same. Diversity refers to the presence of differences within a given setting, encompassing race, gender, age, disability, sexual orientation, and other attributes. Conversely, inclusion is about fostering a setting in which every person feels respected, and valued, and has equal access to possibilities.

Key Principles of Inclusive Design

To create an office space that embraces diversity and inclusion, consider these key principles and commercial interior design trends:

Accessibility: Ensure that your office is easily navigable for people with disabilities. In addition, this includes accessible restrooms, ramps, elevators, and wide doorways.

Flexibility: Offer various types of workspaces to cater to different work styles and needs, such as quiet zones, collaborative areas, and private rooms.

Comfort: Provide ergonomic furniture and adjustable lighting to accommodate different physical needs and preferences.

Safety: Create a safe environment free from hazards, with clear emergency exits and procedures that everyone can understand and follow.

Creating a Welcoming Environment

A welcoming office environment fosters a sense of belonging and comfort. Here’s how you can achieve this:

Inclusive Design Elements

Universal Design: Adopt principles of universal design that ensure that everyone uses the space, regardless of their abilities or age.

Color and Lighting: Use a mix of colors that evoke a sense of calm and positivity. Ensure lighting is adjustable to cater to different visual needs and preferences.

Signage and Wayfinding: Implement clear, multilingual signage to assist everyone in navigating the office easily. Use symbols and simple language for clarity.

Flexible Workspaces

Variety of Spaces: Offer a range of workspaces to suit different tasks and preferences, from open-plan areas for collaboration to quiet zones for focused work.

Remote Work Options: With the increasing trend towards remote work, ensure that your office technology supports seamless virtual collaboration.

Breakout Areas: Create informal areas where employees can relax and recharge, fostering interaction and collaboration across diverse groups.

Gender-Inclusive Design

Creating a gender-inclusive office means considering the needs and comfort of all genders. Here are some key elements:

Restroom Facilities: Provide gender-neutral restrooms alongside traditional ones to ensure everyone feels comfortable and safe.

Privacy Options: Design spaces that offer privacy for everyone, including areas where nursing mothers can pump or breastfeed.

Gender-Neutral Language: Use gender-neutral language in signage, communications, and documentation to make everyone feel included.

Age-Inclusive Design

An inclusive workplace design should cater to employees of all ages, from young professionals to older workers. Consider these strategies:

Ergonomic Furniture: Provide adjustable furniture that can be customized to meet the ergonomic needs of different age groups.

Quiet Spaces: Include quiet areas where older employees or those needing a break from the bustling office environment can work or rest.

Technology Training: Offer training sessions for new technologies to ensure that all age groups can efficiently use the office’s digital tools.

Supporting Mental Health

Mental health is a critical aspect of overall well-being. Here are ways to design an office that supports mental health:

Quiet Zones: Designate quiet zones where employees can retreat to de-stress and focus without interruptions.

Natural Elements: Incorporate elements of nature, such as indoor plants, natural lighting, and water features, which have been shown to reduce stress and enhance mood.

Open Communication: Create open and transparent communication channels where employees feel safe discussing their mental health needs.

Encouraging Inclusivity in Office Culture

Designing for diversity is not just about physical space—it also involves fostering an inclusive culture. Here are some new office interior design ideas and tips to cultivate such a culture:

Training and Education: Regularly conduct training sessions on diversity and inclusion to raise awareness and educate employees on these important topics.

Inclusive Policies: Implement policies that support diversity, such as flexible working hours, parental leave, and anti-discrimination policies.

Employee Resource Groups: Encourage the formation of employee resource groups where people with similar backgrounds or interests can support each other and share experiences.

Studio AsA: Your Partner in Inclusive Design

When it comes to designing for diversity and inclusion, Studio AsA is at the forefront. Their approach is rooted in understanding the unique needs of each client and crafting environments that foster inclusivity and well-being. Let the experts help you transform your office into a space where everyone feels valued and empowered.

Creating a well-designed office isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s a strategic investment in your business’s future. The right office design can significantly impact productivity, employee satisfaction, and even your company’s bottom line. This article delves into the many ways that investing in your office interiors can provide substantial long-term returns.

Boosting Employee Morale and Retention

Designing for Comfort and Well-being

An office that prioritizes employee well-being can boost morale and reduce turnover. When employees feel comfortable and valued, they are more likely to stay with the company. Focus on:

Break Areas: Create inviting break areas where employees can relax and recharge.

Wellness Spaces: Incorporate wellness rooms for activities like yoga or meditation.

Personalization: Allow employees to personalize their workspaces to create a sense of ownership and comfort.

Promoting a Positive Culture

Office design can also reflect and reinforce your company culture. A thoughtfully designed office with the best commercial interior designers can foster collaboration, innovation, and a positive work environment. Consider:

Open vs. Private Spaces: Balance open spaces for collaboration with private areas for focused work.

Branding: Integrate your company’s branding into the design to instill a sense of pride and belonging.

Amenities: Provide amenities that support work-life balance, such as on-site gyms or childcare facilities.

Attracting Top Talent

First Impressions Matter

The appearance of your office can significantly influence potential employees’ decisions. A modern, well-designed office can help attract top talent. Focus on:

Reception Area: Design a welcoming reception area that reflects your company’s values and culture.

Showcase Innovation: Use innovative design elements to demonstrate that your company is forward-thinking.

Inclusive Design: Ensure your office is accessible and inclusive to attract a diverse workforce.

Sustainable Design

Sustainability is increasingly important to employees. A commitment to eco-friendly practices can set your company apart. Implement:

Energy Efficiency: Use energy-efficient lighting and appliances to reduce your carbon footprint.

Sustainable Materials: Choose sustainable and recycled materials for office furnishings and finishes.

Green Certifications: Aim for certifications like LEED to showcase your commitment to environmental responsibility.

Enhancing Employee Productivity

Creating a Functional Layout

A well-thought-out office layout can dramatically increase efficiency. When employees have easy access to necessary tools and resources, they can perform tasks more quickly and with less frustration. Consider the following:

Ergonomic Furniture: Invest in chairs, desks, and workstations that support good posture and reduce strain.

Task-Specific Areas: Designate spaces for focused work, collaboration, and relaxation to cater to different working styles.

Flow of Movement: Ensure there is an efficient flow of movement throughout the office to minimize disruptions and maximize efficiency.

Improving Air Quality and Lighting

Environmental factors play a critical role in employee productivity. Poor air quality and inadequate lighting can lead to fatigue and decreased concentration. Here’s how to optimize these elements:

Natural Light: Maximize the use of natural light to reduce eye strain and improve mood.

Air Purification: Use plants and air purifiers to enhance air quality and create a healthier work environment.

Artificial Lighting: Use adjustable lighting solutions to maintain optimal light levels throughout the day.

Increasing Client Perception and Business Opportunities

Creating a Professional Image

A well-designed office can enhance your company’s image and reputation. Professionally presenting businesses are more likely to gain the trust and interaction of their clients. Key aspects include:

Conference Rooms: Design state-of-the-art conference rooms that impress clients and facilitate effective meetings.

Art and Decor: Use art and decor to convey your brand’s story and values.

Cleanliness and Maintenance: Maintain a clean and organized environment to reflect attention to detail and professionalism.

Facilitating Better Client Interactions

A thoughtfully designed office can make client interactions more comfortable and productive. This can lead to better business outcomes and long-term relationships. Focus on:

Comfortable Waiting Areas: Provide comfortable and inviting waiting areas for clients.

Meeting Spaces: Ensure meeting spaces are equipped with the latest technology and offer privacy for sensitive discussions.

Hospitality: Offer amenities like refreshments to make clients feel welcome and valued.

Financial Returns on Office Design Investments

Long-Term Savings

Investing in quality office interiors with the help of top corporate interior designers can lead to significant long-term savings. While the initial cost may be high, the benefits often outweigh the expenses. Consider:

Durable Materials: Choose high-quality, durable materials that reduce the need for frequent replacements and repairs.

Energy Savings: Implement energy-saving solutions that lower utility costs over time.

Reduced Turnover: Lower turnover rates reduce hiring and training costs.

Enhanced Productivity and Profitability

Improved productivity directly impacts profitability. When employees are more productive, the overall output and efficiency of the company increase. Key points include:

Optimized Workflows: Streamlined office designs lead to optimized workflows and faster project completion.

Employee Satisfaction: Satisfied employees are more engaged and motivated, leading to higher quality work.

Client Satisfaction: A professional environment enhances client satisfaction and can lead to increased business opportunities.

In Conclusion