As the majority of Australian office workers transition back to physical offices, concerns are being raised over the evident overcrowding in workspaces. During the COVID-19 pandemic, many businesses either downsized their physical offices or increased their workforce without expanding office spaces. This has resulted in discomfort and conflict among staff due to the congested work environments.
Jenny Folley, emphasised the importance of a conducive office environment. “Employees typically spend 38 to 40 hours in the office. The setting needs to be conducive to productivity. If workers are content, they are undeniably more effective in their roles,” stated Folley.
Folley further stressed the need for businesses to adapt to the changing office requirements. “It’s essential for businesses to be aware of their growing spatial needs and adapt accordingly. Embracing flexible office solutions can provide an immediate remedy to this predicament.”
In examining the office landscape, particularly in Sydney and Melbourne, Folley highlighted the tighter spaces. “The average office space in Sydney offers 11.1 square metres per person and in Melbourne, it’s 12 square metres. This is notably less than the global average of 13.3 square metres,” said Folley.
Folley raised concerns over the implications of these tight spaces. “Apart from the evident health risks due to closer proximity, the lack of personal space can lead to privacy violations, potential harassment, and a noticeable decline in efficiency.”
One key observation is the rise in workplace disagreements. Folley elaborated, “While open plan offices are designed to foster collaboration, the outcome, especially in overcrowded spaces, can be counterproductive. The constant noise and distractions can be detrimental to productivity. This often leads to friction among staff, affecting the overall workplace atmosphere.”
In terms of solutions, Folley believes coworking spaces can provide an effective remedy. “The perception that coworking is a fleeting trend is far from reality. In fact, since 2006, there has been a consistent doubling in the number of employees opting for such flexible arrangements each year,” Folley commented.
She further elaborated on the benefits of such spaces. “Shared office hubs like @WORKSPACES offer unmatched flexibility. Not only do they provide scalable office space, but the amenities and provisions such as tech-equipped meeting rooms, efficient reception services, and robust security make them a compelling choice.”
About @WORKSPACES
@WORKSPACES offers an optimal blend of coworking and private office solutions, situated strategically near amenities promoting work-life balance. Their offerings cater to the needs of diverse businesses, ensuring that clients don’t compromise on their well-being. With locations in both CBD and suburban areas, @WORKSPACES continues to redefine the modern workspace.
For more details, visit www.atworkspaces.com.
