Page 25 - Designing Ways 287
P. 25

maintaining trust with employees.   retreat is not just about not working, it’s
                                              Anonymisation  techniques  can  be  about time to reflect in a space that is
                                              employed to protect individual privacy   decidedly different to the rest of the office.
                                              while still deriving valuable insights   Last, but definitely not least, all these
                                              from the data. While smart offices offer   modern workplace trends point to one
                                              numerous benefits, it’s important to avoid   underlying theme: improving employee
                                              over-reliance on technology. A robust   experience. The reality is that even with the
                                              back-up system, contingency plans and   smartest building and the most advanced
                                              human oversight are necessary to ensure   AI, people are still at the heart of business
                                              business continuity in the event of system   success. Prioritising employee experience,
                                              failures or cyberattacks. Regular system   engagement and well-being is therefore the
                                              maintenance, software updates and   best way forward for companies that want
                                              employee training can help mitigate risks   to stay competitive.  dw
                                              and minimise downtime.
                                               More consideration is being taken to
                                              account for the different ways people
                                              utilise their working environment,
                                              depending on their individual.
                                               A retreat space can be much needed
                                              for those who might prefer time to
                                              themselves to recharge. In 2025, the
                                              emphasis on employee well-being has led
                                              to the integration of dedicated wellness
                                              rooms within office environments. These
                                              spaces offer employees a sanctuary to
                                              recharge, meditate or engage in quiet
                                              reflection, addressing the diverse needs of
                                              the modern work force.
                                               However,  these  spaces  can  also  take
                                              shape in different ways, such as a dedicated
                                              library or a quiet corner in the office
                                              which is furnished in a different style to its
                                              immediate surroundings. Retreats need
                                              to be informal and they must prioritise
                                              the user. This means that acoustics and
                                              lighting need to be considered. The term





                                                                                                    dw • Issue 287   25
   20   21   22   23   24   25   26   27   28   29   30