In today’s dynamic workplace, achieving productivity and focus requires more than just open spaces or traditional desk setups. Recent research from JLL found that employees still spend an average of 51% of their time on individual work, despite the rise in collaborative spaces. Quiet, focused work remains essential, but it’s more complex than ever due to the increasing need for virtual collaboration.
However, focus is not a one-size-fits-all experience. It’s shaped by unique needs, tasks, and personalities. Some people thrive in bustling environments, while others need silence to concentrate. This means that designing a workplace to support focus must offer flexibility, allowing individuals to choose the space that best suits their work style and task at hand.
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Empowering teams to work more efficiently.
By offering a diverse range of focus-oriented spaces, employers can empower their teams to work more efficiently and comfortably. Below are four types of spaces that foster focus:
Deep Focus Pods
Enclosed, private rooms are ideal for tasks that require deep concentration. These rooms offer a sense of privacy and freedom from distractions, allowing employees to fully immerse themselves in their work. Perfect for high-concentration activities like coding, writing, or complex problem-solving, these spaces ensure focus is uninterrupted.
These spaces should have soundproofing, comfortable seating, and a calming atmosphere. The design should be warm, with soft lighting and minimal visual clutter, so the mind can settle into its most productive state.
Phone Rooms for Virtual Calls
In the hybrid work era, virtual communication has become a staple. 1-2 person rooms, designed for virtual calls, provide employees with a quiet, private space for video conferencing, client calls, or virtual meetings. These rooms are equipped with the right technology—high-speed internet, built-in microphones, speakers, and large screens for easy face-to-face interactions.
The goal is to eliminate the stress of finding a private, quiet area for virtual calls and to ensure that these meetings run smoothly. Well-designed call rooms enhance focus during meetings, improving communication and helping employees transition back to individual work seamlessly.
Quiet Cars: Open, Designated Quiet Zones
Not all workspaces need to be fully enclosed to support focus. Open, quiet areas—referred to as "quiet cars" after the peaceful train cars—are another essential component. These zones maintain a calm, noise-controlled environment within an open office, giving individuals the chance to work quietly without feeling isolated.
These spaces often incorporate individual desks or booths where employees can focus on individual tasks while still being part of the broader office environment. Clear signage and cultural norms help maintain the quiet nature of these zones, ensuring that those who need a peaceful atmosphere can work effectively.
Flexible Workstations for Task-Specific Focus
Certain tasks require specific tools or setups that a typical desk can’t provide. Flexible workstations that can be adapted for different needs—such as adjustable standing desks, ergonomic chairs, or additional monitors—allow employees to tailor their space for the task at hand.
For example, a designer might need a desk with extra space for a drawing tablet, while an analyst might benefit from multiple screens. These workstations encourage task-specific focus by adapting to the requirements of different workflows, supporting comfort and efficiency.
