August 5th, 2024

Gone are the days of taking a call in the open': why office pods are everywhere

The rise of office pods signifies a shift in workplace design towards privacy and adaptability, driven by hybrid work models and the demand for soundproof, modular spaces that enhance employee well-being.

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Gone are the days of taking a call in the open': why office pods are everywhere

The rise of office pods reflects a significant shift in workplace design, driven by the need for privacy and adaptability in modern work environments. As companies adapt to hybrid work models, the demand for soundproof, modular spaces has surged. Office pods, once viewed as cramped, are now popular for providing workers with the privacy needed for calls and focused tasks. The pandemic highlighted the importance of visual and acoustic privacy, leading many to prefer the quiet of home over open office layouts. Companies like Framery and Room have seen substantial growth, with revenues increasing significantly as they cater to this demand. Modular architecture allows for flexible office layouts, enabling businesses to quickly adapt spaces without the waste associated with traditional construction. Features designed for neurodiverse individuals, such as adjustable lighting, are also being integrated into these spaces, benefiting all workers. The trend indicates that by 2030, a significant portion of office space will be flexible, reflecting a broader shift towards environments that prioritize employee well-being and adaptability. As companies increasingly seek short-term leases and flexible designs, the future of office spaces appears to be one of continuous evolution, where adaptability and employee needs take center stage.

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Link Icon 5 comments
By @s1gsegv - 9 months
I can respect that “one size fits all” office setups giving way to more varied conditions is a positive. However it must be said that it’s very ‘convenient’ for companies that this is a cheap way to squeeze more out of cramped and more worker-hostile office spaces.

I personally hate to give this so much credit knowing what it represents, that we move further away from humane spaces to work.

By @bravetraveler - 9 months
I watched a certain company we all know redesign their offices.

The guy who did it: a friend of the execs who, seemingly, hadn't worked in decades. Looked like he was airdropped from vacation in Maui. Went on at lengths about SketchUp

My point, I guess, is one of the worst environments I've seen was laid out by someone who neither experienced it or cared beyond appearance.

It wasn't to work in, it was to show others and make sales. The areas I saw in particular were adjacent to this purpose, The Ops Center. We're living the long term effects of 1980s movies.

By @ngcc_hk - 9 months
Not sure what neurologist do but if this article about using kids of special need to do office design, it reminds me the saying sociology is not about study the deviant but the family, not the delinquent but the people day in day out. It is the “normal” that is needed to be studied and helped.
By @cebert - 9 months
By @anothername12 - 9 months
I’m using one of the phone booths at work as my office