This shift is a reflection of how attitudes towards office space have both gradually and dramatically changed over the years. Previously, office space was viewed as a house for employees to work from, but now employee wellbeing, satisfaction and creativity have become real targets for employers, interior designers and architects to take into consideration when designing an office.
Whilst it’s clear that office design has changed, we need to look at the landscape in more detail and address the expectations of the workers of the future. Gen Z’s are leading the charge when it comes to the return to the office, and our own research at Kitt revealed a quarter of them now want a more ‘instagrammable’ office. In a world where every meal out is uploaded to an Instagram story, it’s no surprise that having something they can be proud to show their friends has transcended social settings and is now true to the workplace as well.
Instagram has already infiltrated many other industries such as hospitality, where cafe and restaurant owners want to invest more and more into creating an ambiance that shows a desirable aesthetic when photographed. It was almost inevitable that the office design industry would soon follow suit.
As a result, we are seeing more businesses revamping their office space so that it reflects the current social media trends in an attempt to attract and retain their Gen Z talent.
Here are some easy to implement tips to make your office space wow on Instagram – and bring in and retain the talent of the future.
Consider your lighting
- Make sure you have flattering lighting – be it a selfie for or a video call with clients, nice lighting is always a bonus.
- Light temperature: Try 4,000K light temperatures as opposed to 8,000K.. 8,000K light resembles daylight, and while it may be cooler, clearer and whiter, it will make a space feel clinical. A lower light temperature is warmer, makes the space feel more inviting and is more flattering.
- Stunning pendant lights aren’t just for use in the home, they can also bring an on-trend look that boosts creativity in your office space. Available in a range of styles and finishes, statement pendants can set the tone of your space, offering a contemporary or retro look depending on the rest of your office design, making your team feel at home.
Bring colours in the office
- Choose wall colours that complement your brand and ensure continuity across the office. When posted on social media, viewers will make an unconscious connection to your brand through those colours – making it more memorable and a place they want to work themselves.
- There’s no question colour influences our mood and behaviour in such an instinctive way we don’t usually know it’s happening. Therefore, you shouldn’t choose colour schemes with red tones for working and conference spaces, but reserve those for breakout spaces and other areas employees won’t spend a huge amount of time.
- Get inspired by hospitality design, as this is where Gen Z spend most of their time on the weekend. If you want to go the extra mile, you should consider going for bold designs with illuminated bathroom mirrors (great for selfies!) and a feature wall such as a flower wall in the bathrooms.