Against the Open Concept Grain – Privacy Reigns in Some Kitchener Office Furniture

By now, we all know that there has been a strong movement in the past two decades toward open concept office spaces. Modern Kitchener companies often work with companies such as Mayhew to design workplaces that eschew traditional offices and encourage collaboration at every turn. It’s an exciting development, but it’s important to remember that it isn’t right for every organization. In fact, some firms steadfastly believe in privacy when it comes to office furniture and interior design.

Why Privacy Rules Some Industries

There are numerous reasons for Kitchener groups to choose an office layout that leans more toward private spaces than toward a more open concept. Some of these include:

• Regulations set by the marketplace in which the company operates. For instance, financial firms, law firms, hospitals, health care facilities and other highly-regulated businesses may be required to hold privacy above all else. While they still may be able to have some open concept areas, such as call centers, waiting room areas or onsite cafeterias, the majority of their spaces must retain an element of privacy.
• Restrictions on the ability to make major changes on an historic property. Drive through Kitchener, and you’re bound to see many historic buildings that have been remodeled into workplaces. It’s not uncommon to be limited in terms of how an historic property can be renovated. Due to restrictions of this kind, some businesses may have little choice but to create private areas.
• The need for quiet spaces. Many businesses are moving toward the idea of having more and more “quiet spaces” where workers who do not function well in group setting can go to do their jobs. This not only gives those employees a sense of freedom from an open concept environment, but it keeps them energized and focused.

Why Modern Interior Design Is Compatible with Private Offices

Although modern interior design usually leans toward contemporary, open styling, this isn’t always the case. In fact, interior designers, such as Mayhew, have relationships with office furniture suppliers that feature products useful for all types of workspace areas, including those that are private. This means there is room in any organization for the benefits of innovative office furniture, even if the office layout is reminiscent of more traditional workplaces with a host of private places for employees, customers, clients and patients.