Designing Workspaces for Innovation

Collaboration

Kayte Compton and Kelley Naylor emphasize the importance of designing workspaces that foster collaboration and human connection. Kayte highlights the need for spaces that encourage employees to commute and collaborate, while Kelley shares unique design requests they've received, such as building a bear out of Legos 1. They also discuss the significance of incorporating natural elements like daylight and plant life to enhance wellness and connection among employees 2.

You have to design for the human. You have to design for the perception and understanding that humans need life and connection to each other and to the world.

--- Kayte Compton

   

Flexibility

The future of workspaces lies in flexibility and adaptability. Kayte explains that no one has definitive answers for the future workplace, so planning for flexibility and agility is crucial 3. She emphasizes the importance of giving employees control and choice over their work environment to suit their needs on any given day. Kelley and Kayte also discuss how Insidesource has evolved from a furniture dealer to a company that offers comprehensive workspace design services, supporting productivity and fostering community 4.

The key is that you plan for flexibility, you plan for agility, you plan for the ability to flex and adapt.

--- Kayte Compton

   

Innovation

Innovation spaces are essential for fostering creativity and experimentation within workplaces. Kayte and Kelley discuss the concept of 'test kitchens,' where clients can experiment with different environments and products to see what works best 5. They also highlight the importance of considering the end-user experience in workspace design, ensuring that spaces evoke the right emotional reactions and support various work activities 6.

It's a space they dedicate to trying things out, being willing to fail, being willing to learn lessons, getting that feedback and understanding.

--- Kayte Compton