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The shift toward remote work has changed the way businesses think about their office space. While remote work offers flexibility, there are numerous benefits to having a physical workspace, including easier collaboration, fewer technical issues, and a stronger sense of teamwork and company culture. As organizations look to blend in-office and remote work, reconfiguring existing real estate for a hybrid workplace is essential.

Here are some ways to reconfigure current real estate to facilitate the return to the office.

Creating a Safe and Inviting Environment

In the transition to hybrid work, businesses must prioritize health and safety, not only to protect their employees but also to instill confidence. A hybrid workplace doesn’t have to feel cold or impersonal—companies can take steps to ensure a welcoming and safe environment.

Emphasizing Social Distancing

One of the first steps in reconfiguring office spaces is implementing social distancing. Spacing out desks and reducing seating in common areas, such as meeting rooms or break spaces, are simple yet effective measures. Limiting the number of people in high-traffic areas like kitchens can further help maintain a safe distance between employees.

Outdoor spaces can also play a crucial role. If available, companies should create outdoor meeting areas where employees can safely gather, relax, and socialize while maintaining a healthy distance.

Enhancing Cleaning and Sanitization Practices

Regular cleaning and sanitization are more important than ever in hybrid workspaces. Businesses should establish daily cleaning routines for high-touch areas such as door handles, desks, and shared equipment. Providing each employee with individual cleaning supplies allows them to maintain their workspaces to their comfort level. For more extensive cleaning, businesses should consider professional services to ensure thorough sanitization.

Reviewing and Updating Sick Leave Policies

Flexible sick leave policies are key to preventing the spread of illness in a hybrid workplace. By updating policies to encourage employees to stay home when feeling unwell, businesses can protect the health of the entire team. Setting an example by following these policies is critical to promoting a culture of health and wellness.

Implementing Hybrid Work Models

Reconfiguring your workspace is not just about the physical environment but also about how your teams work within it. The hybrid model blends remote work with in-office time, giving employees flexibility while reducing the risk of overcrowding.

Split-Shift and Team-Based Models

One option is the split-shift model, which allows employees to choose between morning and afternoon shifts. This model reduces the number of employees in the office at one time while maintaining full operational capacity.

Alternatively, the alternate teams model involves rotating which teams come into the office on specific days. This way, employees can experience the benefits of both remote work and in-person collaboration.

Hot Desk Hybrid Model

In a hot desk hybrid model, employees can come and go as they please but must reserve desks ahead of time. This system promotes flexibility while maximizing the use of limited office space. Think of it as transforming your office into a co-working space where team members can work in the office when necessary without requiring dedicated desks for everyone.

Redesigning Social Spaces

Social interactions are a core part of company culture, and returning employees will crave opportunities to reconnect. Reconfiguring social spaces for both safety and enjoyment can improve employee well-being and collaboration.

Modernizing Community Areas

Open-concept office designs are popular for their collaborative nature, but they need to be adapted for post-pandemic work. Reducing the number of desks or creating semi-private areas with dividers can strike the right balance between collaboration and safety. Outdoor areas, if available, provide an excellent space for team bonding while maintaining social distancing.

Creating Relaxation Zones

To support mental well-being, businesses can design "mood rooms" or relaxation zones where employees can unwind during breaks. These areas might include calming music, comfortable seating, plants, and other relaxing elements. These rooms offer employees a space to recharge, helping them return to work more focused and energized.

Bringing Fun Back to the Office

After a year or more of remote work, many employees may feel detached from the fun aspects of office life. To make the return to the office more enjoyable, businesses should consider adding some lighthearted elements, such as game rooms with ping pong or foosball tables. Outdoor social events, friendly team competitions, or office trivia can boost morale and help employees feel more connected.

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