WHAT'S UP Blog

Hybrid working is no longer the exception but, for many of us, the new standard. The flexibility to work both in the office and from home is undoubtedly a benefit. Yet with this freedom comes a downside: digital fatigue.

Whereas in the past, computer work was clearly bounded, screens are now constant companions – in meetings, during discussions, for presentations, and often even during breaks. This continual digital presence takes its toll: headaches, difficulty concentrating, irritability, or a constant sense of being overwhelmed.

Remote work is here to stay – but after the initial enthusiasm for more freedom and flexibility, a new set of challenges has emerged: fatigue, lack of focus, and nagging back pain. No surprise, really. To stay motivated and productive in the long run, a laptop and Wi-Fi connection just aren't enough.

The good news: Often, it's the small changes that make the biggest difference. With a few smart tweaks to your workspace, routines, and movement habits, you can reclaim energy, focus, and structure. Here are five practical tips to help you transform your home office into a space that supports your work – and your well-being.

Connecting people – this guiding principle lies at the heart of the latest Sedus INSIGHTS. But how can we create true connection in an increasingly hybrid working world? The answer lies in designing spaces that are not only functional but also emotionally and cognitively engaging – natural environments that enhance well-being and foster genuine encounters.

What distinguishes an arena from other hybrid communal spaces – and why is it so valuable for organisational culture?
In today’s world of hybrid working, our expectations of workspaces have changed fundamentally. Where once function alone was the primary concern, modern environments must do more: they must connect, inspire, provide sanctuary – and above all, be adaptable. This is where ductile shared spaces come into play. Three key concepts emerge: the office café, the oasis, and the arena. While all are designed to foster a sense of community and support hybrid working, the arena occupies a unique and impactful position.

When we talk about organisational culture, we often refer to abstract values: trust, openness, collaboration. Yet culture doesn’t live on paper – it lives in conversations, behaviours, and everyday interactions. The Work Café is the space where these cultural elements become not only visible, but truly tangible.

The crucial point: it’s not just about the space itself, but about what that space makes possible – and how consciously designed furniture enables and amplifies these processes.

Today’s working world is dynamic, hybrid, and shaped by evolving needs. Companies face the challenge of creating environments that foster both productivity and social interaction. This is exactly where Workcafés come into play – spaces that bridge the gap between coffee kitchens and co-working zones, between exchange and retreat.

With the research report “Workcafé & Co.” and the accompanying brochure “Workcafé & Co. Applications,” Sedus provides concrete answers to how these new spaces can be thoughtfully planned and effectively implemented.

Experience sustainability, ensure quality, conserve resources – with its Outlet, Sedus is making a strong statement for a circular economy in action and contemporary office design.

The Sedus Outlet in Dogern is not just open to employees – it welcomes everyone looking for high-quality, sustainable, and ergonomic office furniture at attractive prices. On offer are carefully inspected returns from trade fairs, exhibitions, photo shoots, and showroom samples that now embark on a new phase of life, under the motto “Second Life.”

Design that matters. Values that endure. In 2025, Sedus reaffirms its position as a forward-thinking leader in workspace solutions – with six new products that have received international acclaim for combining sustainability, functionality and exceptional design. Recognised by both the iF Design Award and the Red Dot Award, these solutions reflect a holistic design philosophy built on responsibility and relevance.

At Clerkenwell Design Week in May 2025, we had the pleasure of meeting Hannah Nardini – one of the UK’s leading workplace strategists. With her team at WKSpace, she is dedicated to helping organisations create meaningful and future-oriented work environments. Every strategy begins with thorough data analysis and close collaboration with employees across all levels – including workshops to understand priorities, explore cultural readiness for change, and align on a shared vision. Internally, the WKSpace team practises what it preaches: working flexibly from offices, client spaces, cafés and public transport. For Nardini, reliable Wi-Fi, ergonomic furniture, quiet zones and a well-considered design that supports both functionality and wellbeing are essential features of any workspace.

With the new HUB in Düsseldorf, Sedus has created more than just another showroom – it’s the realisation of a long-cherished dream. A place full of life, exchange, and new ideas. A space that not only demonstrates what modern work environments can look like – but makes them tangible.

Two people who helped shape this unique space provide insights into the journey: Mojdeh Barkhordar, Head of the Workspace Design Team, and Marc Goergens, Head of Sales Germany West.

Clerkenwell Design Week 2025 has come to a close – and what a memorable three days it has been. At Sedus, we were proud to be part of this leading design festival, welcoming a constant stream of visitors to our showroom and exhibition spaces, and engaging in meaningful conversations about the future of the workplace.

In our showroom in Brewhouse Yard, the energy was palpable from the moment the doors opened. Architects, designers, clients and partners gathered to experience our latest concept:
“Design to Connect – the Rendezvous Office” – a fresh take on workspace design that encourages authentic interaction, meaningful focus, and flexible collaboration.

Work is undergoing a fundamental shift: rigid structures are giving way to flexible models that uncouple work from fixed locations and hours. Amid this transformation, the need for genuine human interaction is growing. Despite the efficiency and convenience of digital communication, the social fabric often begins to fray. This is precisely where the new coffee culture plays a vital role.

A thoughtfully designed café area becomes a stage for spontaneous conversations, serendipitous encounters, and cross-departmental collaboration. It offers an informal atmosphere where hierarchies blur and new ideas emerge organically. This unique blend of relaxation and openness turns the office café into a true engine of innovation.

What happens when an office moves into a museum?
At the ZKM | Center for Art and Media Karlsruhe, this question is being reimagined – and, more importantly, redesigned. With LivingRoom, co-created with feco × Sedus, a space has emerged in the midst of the exhibition, “The Story That Never Ends,” that is more than furniture, more than functionality, more than design: a place for dialogue and an experimental environment for the future of work.

The modern working world has changed dramatically, and with it the expectations of office space. A comprehensive analysis of hybrid third places and (work) cafés worldwide has shown that spaces that move between traditional offices and public facilities are playing an increasingly important role. They improve the quality of life and work and promote different working styles. While some of these place focus on open collaboration and energised interaction, others offer quiet retreats for concentrated work or create a relaxed, informal atmosphere. Hubs in particular stand for a new, community-orientated way of working.

The modern working world is undergoing a profound transformation: hybrid models and flexible workplace concepts are increasingly replacing traditional office structures. Companies are seeking solutions that enhance both efficiency and employee well-being. A striking example of this evolution is the headquarters of Penguin Random House India in Gurugram. Designed by SJK Architects, under the leadership of Shimul Javeri Kadri, Vaishali Mangalvedhekar, Sarika Shetty, and Roshni Kshirsagar, this project showcases how work environments can be seamlessly adapted to contemporary needs.

The way we work is constantly evolving. Flexible work models and innovative spatial concepts are becoming increasingly important to enhance both productivity and well-being. In this context, so-called "third places" play a crucial role – spaces that are neither traditional offices nor private living areas but a combination of both.

A prime example of this concept in action is the office café designed in a garden style. Here, nature and work merge into an inspiring environment that optimally supports concentration, creativity, and social interaction.

The modern workplace has evolved, and so have the demands on office environments. The pandemic highlighted that traditional office spaces often no longer meet employees' needs. But how can offices be designed to be not only functional but also inviting? In an expert discussion, neurophysiologist and environmental psychologist, Sophie Schuller, provides valuable insights into how spaces influence our health, well-being, and productivity.

The corporate podcast, work now next by Sedus, regularly offers fascinating insights into the world of design. In the latest episode, designer Volker Eysing – the creative mind behind the new conference chair se:mission – discusses his inspiration, working methods, and future trends.

The world of work is undergoing a transformation: wellbeing, hospitality, and community are becoming central to modern workplace design. These elements are no longer optional extras but essential pillars for creating satisfied, motivated, and high-performing employees. How can companies address these needs through their office and space concepts? With inspiring insights and practical examples, this article explores innovative solutions for the future of work. Discover how hybrid spaces can enhance wellbeing, foster a sense of community, and create a welcoming atmosphere.

Libraries preserve the world’s knowledge. The first libraries were established more than 5000 years ago. Since then, they have evolved from places of peace and solitude to genuine community
spaces where people come together to learn, exchange ideas and work. They have become an integral part of “Great Good Places” – somewhere strangers can become friends. The Norwegian transdisciplinary architecture and design studio Snøhetta recently planned and realised the world’s largest library in Beijing. We spoke to Kjetil Trædal Thorsen about the evolution of libraries.

This blog post sheds light on how libraries are constantly reinventing themselves as ‘cathedrals of the mind’ and what role they play in today's flexible working and living environment.