Retractable, sound-proof and adjustable home workspace

The design, which has been shortlisted for this year’s Davidson prize, aims to provide remote workers with a better work-home balance

Spotted: The last two years have seen remote working become the new standard. However, most houses lack space for a dedicated workstation, in addition to presenting distractions, clutter, and a lack of privacy. This can all have a negative impact on work as well as the ability to “shut off” after work. Now, British design consultancy Ekkist has designed a collection of workspaces that fall from the ceiling of a living room that aim to provide those working from home with a designated workspace. 

Ekkist, who go as the “architecture for well-being”, specialise in creating buildings promoting health and well-being. Together with Cousins & Cousins Architects, Ekkist designed Onni.  

The work surfaces drop at the beginning of the working day, providing acoustic absorption panelling that decreases noise distraction and stress, according to the company. Desk heights are also adjustable to accommodate a variety of standing and sitting positions. 

Onni, is integrated with lighting that turns into the colour of the rising sun to support circadian cycles. After noon, the area is flooded with a cooler blue light to increase productivity. Onni retracts at the end of the day, hiding workstations and displays. A warm, sunset-like red light induces a wind-down period that aims to promote healing and enhances immune system function, according to the company.  

Onni was recently shortlisted for the Davidson prize.  

Explore more: Architecture & Design Innovations | Work & Lifestyle, Health & Wellbeing