No bones about it, the workplace is a competitive industry. These days, companies need every competitive edge they can get to stay on top, from smart, amiable employees, to quality products, to customer service, and yes, a great looking office. When a place looks good in person, it leaves an impression on those that walk in. If you need to redesign your workplace, here's some professional tips inspired by the trends at NeoCon to help you reel in the clientele!
The Euro Look
No, we haven't been invaded, but the design world certainly has! One of the biggest trends at last year's NeoCon (the birthplace of commercial style and innovation) was the European look, and it's not really a big surprise. With the success of popular office chairs by Eurotech and other European inspired names, it only makes sense that this style is the way to go, and it hasn't gone anyplace yet. Users still love the memorable look of European high backed chairs and desks. They're comfortable, functional, and tricked out with all sorts of ergonomic features to bring out the best in all office spaces, from the waiting area, to the desks.
Earth Tones
Earth tones were a popular trend at last year's convention for obvious reasons. One of the biggest is probably due to the "green" movement and the fact that most offices want to showcase their eco-friendliness. But another reason could have a lot to do with the prevalence of primary colors as an older trend. Bright blues, oranges, reds, and yellows were once a way to stand out in the workplace, but much of it has now become passé, particularly since "coloring book" is a hard look to pull off. Earth tones like greens, tans, whites, and warm grays are cozy and comfortable, especially covering affordable lounge furniture for waiting rooms at the office. Not only do they tend to match almost anything, but they're also familiar to guests and employees alike.
High Tech
It's probably safe to say that technology won't be going anywhere, especially in the workplace. Heck! Half the workplaces nowadays are likely run through e-commerce more than anything else. Trying to predict the future of the high tech world can be a little like, well, trying to predict the future. Most of us have no idea where it's going to go, but today's tech gives us a good starting point to guess from. With a little research on computer innovation, business owners can have a good sense of where the tech world is headed so they can buy furniture accordingly. It's best to have things like office desks with modern design that leave room for technological advances with devices such as power outlets. Choosing chairs with tablets allows users a place to set laptops should they have need of them in the office or lobby.
Great Upholsteries
Buyers can never go wrong with fabric or leather as long as they choose the right colors and patterns to represent their workspace. However, keeping up with what's new is a great way to stay on top. The secret has sort of gotten out that stylish mesh back chairs with ergonomic are comfortable as well as affordable, but that doesn't make them any less modern. These chairs are starting to be seen almost everywhere, which may lead most to believe the style is on it's way out, but mesh chairs are more than just a pretty upholstery. They're incredibly functional, offering both support and breathable fabric. Another trendy upholstery from last year's NeoCon is felt. This soft plushy fabric covered everything, floor to ceiling. It's appealing, easy to cut, and easy to cover with, making it a favorite DIY fans and business owners alike.
An Open Workspace
The success of large companies like Google, Facebook, and other multi-national web giants has actually led to a remarkable office innovation. Many of these companies swear their success is do to more than just web output and innovative ideas. It is also due to the spread of those ideas, which is part of why open desking is such a huge trend. When coworkers aren't blocked by cubicle walls, they're likely working together at modular workstations for business use. These inventions are basically big desks where employees can work side-by-side, with plenty of space. Open modular desking and training areas improve the spread of revolutionary ideas to build companies upon.
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