A handful of boomers, millennials, and now Gen Z… They're all now found in the workplace. Each generation grew up in a different era, giving them their own perspective on (working) life. Consequently, everyone also has their own wish list when it comes to their work environment. We're all familiar with the wish lists of boomers and millennials, but what exactly does Gen Z want? Since Gen Z will be the most important generation in the workplace in the coming years, it's important to adapt their work environment so they feel comfortable too. But how do you make the office Gen Z-proof?
Generation Z values an attractive and inspiring work environment. To attract and retain these young talents, it's essential to update your office's interior. By investing in an inspiring work environment, you demonstrate that your company is moving with the times and ready for the future.
Architectural firms are also seeing that companies are embracing this vision of the future. They're noticing a shift in demand for interior design products. Companies are no longer simply opting for open-plan offices but are expanding by creating social gathering spaces like smoothie bars, coffee corners , or chill-out areas. An office space is no longer just an office space but a quiet pod or a focus zone. There's also a growing demand for sports and play facilities combined with all sorts of tech gadgets. The office is now seen as a clubhouse where people can also work. This is perfectly feasible, as more and more offices are open 24/7 for the small group of night-time creatives.
A flexible workspace is important to Gen Z. They don't want to be tied to a single desk and prefer to work on their laptops whenever and wherever they want. They also value working with the latest equipment and software, and a good internet connection is essential. A nice perk is a sneak peek at the latest tech gadgets in the office. Will you be the first company to have an Apple Vision Pro?
Make yourself at home
The best ideas often arise in the shower, but installing a shower in the office might be a step too far. To still stimulate employee inspiration, you can transform the office atmosphere. By furnishing the spaces like a trendy coffee bar, cozy living room, or sunny vacation resort, employees will feel more at ease. You can make subtle changes, such as adding colors that influence productivity, or a complete makeover with a climbing wall, hammock, game console, or paddle court.
Hang the 'Home is where the office is' sign with pride!
Maybe a bit much?
Now you might be thinking: isn't this just spoiling a new generation? They should work at a desk and not complain too much about privileges we didn't have...
Don't forget that boomers also went through a similar transformation. Over the years, their hierarchical, even military-style, office layouts were transformed into "cell offices," where one or two people were allowed to work in a single room, instead of one large space where all employees sat with their backs to the boss and were expected to be quiet. With the help of partitions , the open space could easily be converted into individual rooms. This less strict layout allowed for less control and more freedom for the employees. Did boomers cut corners because of this more playful layout?
Millennials, too, were given more freedom. They were the first to experience hybrid working. A company laptop and phone? No problem... Are you spoiled if you don't spend 40 hours a week in the same chair?
So every generation has its own wishes and the generation after Z will also come up with new ideas that previous generations will have to get used to.
Okay, how do I start with this?
Are you not Gen Z yourself and find it hard to imagine their working lives? Hire someone or ask your niece or nephew to lend a hand. Have them write down everything that makes them happy and take it to an architectural firm, along with a budget. Would Gen Z thrive on a game room in the office, or a meditation room complete with a stuffed goat?
A key starting point for a future-proof office is the four essential zones, according to Ditt Officemakers. If you have these four areas in your office, you're on the right track. After that, it's just a matter of designing these four zones.
- Meet | Relax
- Consultation | Meeting
- Work | Collaborate
- Concentration | Privacy
In short: a ping-pong table and an open-plan office aren't enough anymore. These offices take Officeism to the next level.
Coolblue, Rotterdam. View the digital tour here.
Gentera Innovation Lab Offices – Mexico City
Do you have the most beautiful office in the Netherlands? Enter The Office Awards.
System Flex
Want to learn more about our circular wall and ceiling systems? Feel free to contact us.