Much is made of millennial culture, both good and bad. But ultimately, it doesn’t matter how millennials are judged by older generations or by each other. They’re here to stay, and they’re quickly changing the world around them. As more and more millennials (commonly defined as the generation born between 1980 and 2000) enter the workforce, office design trends are quickly adjusting to fit the preferences of today’s young workers.
Companies are increasingly realizing that they need to court talented and educated young people, and one of the best ways to do it is to make their workspaces as millennial-friendly as possible. But what does this entail?
Fitness Friendly Offices
In general, the majority of millennials take fitness seriously and maintain healthy, active lifestyles. Most young people are deeply concerned by recent studies confirming the negative health implications of a sedentary, desk chair-bound 9 to 5 lifestyle. For this reason, millennials at work are demanding offices that are more conducive to good health. Standing desks and even treadmill desks are growing in popularity; having the option of switching out the desk chair for an exercise ball is sure to impress many millennial employees. Likewise, offering fitness centers, in-house yoga classes and other perks are a great way to demonstrate your company’s commitment to good health.
In cities, biking to work is becoming very popular as it is both a healthy way to get some exercise and also a more environmentally friendly commute option. Office designers need to keep this in mind and cater to the biking crowd. Safe and convenient bike parking is becoming a must; shower and changing facilities are helpful for people who want to bike to work without having to sit at their desk still sweaty from the commute.
Creativity-Boosting Office Plans
Open office design plans are another trend that’s growing in popularity with millennials in the workplace. The concept of spending all day staring at cubicle walls fell out of favor fast with young people, who find the idea stifling and soul-crushing. The open office environment can get the creative juices flowing and bring colleagues together for harmonious collaboration.
The concept of flexible work spaces is having a big effect on cubicle design ideas. Mountable partitions that can be moved or taken down can keep the workplace feeling fresh and always ready to adapt to the company’s changing needs.
Have Some Personality
Millennials in the workplace are very attracted to creative branding and love being associated with a company that feels exciting, interesting and unique. Incorporating bright colors, organic shapes and creative design touches are surefire ways to please your company’s young employees. Likewise, consider losing the stuffy dress requirements. A relaxed dress code (or lenient business casual dress code) will allow your fashion-savvy millennial employees to express themselves and feel comfortable with their style choices.
Incorporating these office design ideas will help create an environment where millennials feel that they can grow, thrive and excel — which is crucial to attracting young talent with fresh, exciting ideas for your company.