Rita Estephan, COO at Motif Interiors, shares her thoughts on how the third spaces concept is reshaping the way we work.
In the ever-evolving realm of work, conventional office configurations are yielding ground to forward-thinking designs that champion collaboration, creativity, and employee well-being. This is precisely where the concept of third spaces comes into play. Rita Estephan, COO at Motif Interiors, shares her thoughts on how this innovative concept is reshaping the way we work.
Third spaces represent a departure from conventional work settings, offering employees a break from their desks and meeting rooms. Whether lounge spaces, breakout zones, or communal kitchens, these areas serve as hubs for brainstorming sessions, and informal meetings, nurturing a sense of interaction and collaboration among colleagues. Every workspace, regardless of size or industry, needs these innovative spaces to thrive in today’s fast-paced work environment.
The Essence of Third Spaces - Motif
Fostering Collaboration: Third spaces provide an environment where ideas flow freely and collaboration thrives. By encouraging spontaneous discussions and interactions, these areas break down barriers and facilitate cross-team collaboration, driving innovation and problem-solving.
Enhancing Creativity: Third spaces stimulate creativity and out-of-the-box thinking. With comfortable seating and ample natural light, these areas are designed to inspire. They provide a conducive environment for brainstorming and ideation, resulting in fresh perspectives and innovative solutions.
Boosting wellbeing: A healthy work-life balance is essential for employee wellbeing, and third spaces play a crucial role in achieving this equilibrium. By offering spaces for relaxation, socialisation, and rejuvenation, employers can alleviate stress and promote mental health, leading to higher job satisfaction and productivity.
Attracting talent: In an increasingly competitive job market, companies that prioritize employee wellbeing and workspace culture are better positioned to attract and retain top talent. By creating an inviting and dynamic work environment, including thoughtfully designed third spaces, these organisations demonstrate their commitment to employee satisfaction and professional growth.
The collaboration zone at the MEX Energy office was designed by Studio Sahab and built by Motif
Creating successful third spaces requires careful consideration and attention to detail. Here are some key design aspects:
Strategic location:
Place third spaces in high-traffic areas to maximise visibility and accessibility. Ideal locations include near entrances, elevators, or cafeterias. These communal areas encourage spontaneous interactions. Additionally, situating these spaces near natural light sources or scenic views can enhance their appeal, making them more inviting and conducive to relaxation and collaboration.
Comfort and flexibility:
Prioritise comfort with ergonomic furniture and inviting aesthetics. Ensure flexibility in design to accommodate various activities, allowing spaces to adapt to changing needs throughout the day. Comfortable seating, adaptable layouts, and a variety of seating options can make these areas versatile and welcoming.
Technology integration:
While promoting face-to-face interaction, equipping third spaces with essential technology such as Wi-Fi access and video conferencing facilities can support collaboration and connectivity. Including charging stations, interactive whiteboards, and smart screens can further boost the functionality of these spaces, ensuring they meet the diverse needs of a modern work environment.
By carefully considering these design aspects, organizations can create effective third spaces that enhance collaboration, creativity, and overall employee well-being.
Hyundai Middle East HQ features multiple third spaces
Future Trends and Outlook:
Besides elevating the concept of third spaces, the future of workspace design is set to embrace a multitude of innovative trends. This includes integrating natural elements into office environments to promote employee well-being and connection to nature, and incorporating augmented reality features to revolutionise how employees interact with their surroundings. Moreover, a growing interest in wellness initiatives such as dedicated areas for relaxation, meditation, and fitness will foster a holistic approach to employee health and happiness.
In conclusion, third spaces represent a turning point in workspace design. By harnessing the power of these areas, organisations can unlock their full potential and thrive in an ever-changing business landscape. Now, it's time to embrace the transformative impact of third spaces.
