AXIOMS OF OFFICE DESIGN

 

A. SPACE PLANNING

 

Space planning is concerned with creating functional, effective, productive and flexible working areas that optimize the use of space within the constraints of the building and the offices

A space standard, if implemented in an organization, could have three options: allocation based on hierarchy, allocation based on function, and identical space allocation for each individual. Understanding the space envelope, special purpose spaces, shared spaces, swing spaces and workstation spaces that accommodate specific activities which are unique forms the crux of the design. Office space planning is neither architecture nor interior design, nor is it simply an exercise in aesthetics. It is a matter of understanding the dynamics of office workspace and the patterns of workflow and communication within the office. It is a question of visualizing the workspace possibilities presented by different office systems, components and technologies. It is the practice of achieving solutions that optimize the use of available office space for employee and task needs, reconciling the work needs of individuals with the business goals and objectives of employers.

 

B. FLEXIBILITY

 

Office space design remains, by necessity, much more fluid, are forced to constantly change and adapt in the fast-paced dynamic arena of corporate competition. The design of the office space must transition, in order for the space to remain relevant and functional. Types of offices – open, closed, landscape, honeycomb, cluster, bullpen, pool, cellular, group offices…etc. completes the panorama of design solutions but applying the right pattern to a space needs to be dominated by the rule of flexibility.

 

C. MODULAR APPROACH

 

Refers to a design strategy in which a system is composed of relatively small and autonomous routines that fit together. Furniture designed as a set of dimensionally standardized components; may be either integrated, or removed with no effect or change on the remaining system. Modular desking and cubicles are ideal for a growing office space where configurations need to accommodate and adapt to flexible norms.

 

D. ERGONOMICS

 

Ergonomics (or human factors) is the application of scientific information concerning objects, systems and environment for human use and is commonly thought of as how companies design tasks and work areas to maximize the efficiency and quality of their employees’ work. The design has to consciously include human capabilities in relationship to work demands.

 

E. FRAME AND SHELL

 

The structural embodiment of the entire building that adapts, flexes and suits the functional and organizational requisites forms the underlying base of the design of office spaces. The external shell, façade, skin speaks the language of not just the design, but the brand, corporate identity and organizational image.

 

F. LIGHTING & COLOUR

 

Creating the needed ambience for work and rejuvenation through the idioms of color, texture, lighting, art in architecture, materials and finishes sum up the design.

 

G. TECHNOLOGY

 

Technology has revolutionized the office spaces in the contemporary era. Radically reconfiguring office space in a more cost-efficient and team-oriented manner, employing hoteling, hot desking and telecommuting, creating designs that reflect more comfortable, serviced environments forms the dictum

 

TRENDS

 

Office alternatives in vogue:

1. The Club – the relaxed lounge which allows employees to interact and integrate their personal lives with the work spaces and culture

2. Work palace - a building with a range of excellent and exclusive facilities thus using the office for the whole day and using the space to support personal life, leisure, entertainment and family care.

3. Techno emporium – a building that acts as a repository of electronic gadgets

4. Shared office space - also known as serviced office space, business centers, or executive suites are a turn-key office solution providing an office space shared by other companies or professionals

5. Bionic Offices - the incorporation of bionics that emphasizes implementing a function found in nature rather than just imitating biological structures.

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THE SITE

 

A multistoried office complex is to be designed at the proposed site at Nungambakkam. The site abuts the Taylors Road and tapers gradually on one side. The building would accommodate office spaces, shared and rental spaces, food court and the peripheral / support services. Being a strategic location the client specification envisages a brand / image value to the project.