Modular units and work pods turn open-plan office into safe workplace

Colour and texture help delineate different zones for meeting and working

Spotted: Berlin-based Studio Aisslinger transformed a large open space into a colour-filled, adaptable workplace. Pods for concentrated time alone, clearly designated meeting areas and a range of modular units that allow for seated or standing collaboration help colleagues maintain social distance. Bright, saturated colours set against a neutral background delineate each area, creating natural spacing between zones while still allowing for unimpeded foot traffic.

Perforated, folding metal screens and heavy fabric curtains provide for flexibility of use across the space. Thick carpets indicate meeting areas as well as provide acoustic support. Making offices more flexible allows for set-ups to change as per local requirements, whether that be of the teams in situ or public health guidelines. The colour is an important part of making it easy for employees to socially distance without emphasising the coldness of separation.  

Millions of businesses around the world have had to change their working patterns to keep their employees safe, which in turn has substantially changed the use of office spaces. Springwise has spotted a range of innovations assisting with this large-scale alteration, including a multi-functional chair that turns into a desk and a device that provides an interactive, virtual visualisation of colleagues working elsewhere.