WHAT'S UP Blog

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.

In modern office environments, it is often a challenge to reconcile concentrated work with open working landscapes. se:hive was developed to resolve precisely this issue - the retreat option offers visual and acoustic screening without restricting the openness and flexibility of the space.

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 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.

“We are not thinking machines that feel, but feeling machines that think.” This quote from António R. Damásio aptly captures the complexity of human working life and reminds us that our emotions and wellbeing have a significant impact on our work. The way we work is changing with the increasing popularity of hybrid working models, and the design of our workspaces must also adapt to these changes.

Every year, the design community eagerly awaits the unveiling of the Pantone Color of the Year, which captures the global zeitgeist in a unique way. For 2025, the Pantone Color Institute has chosen PANTONE 17-1230 Mocha Mousse, a warm, intense shade of brown that radiates comfort and elegance in equal measure. This shade reflects the desire for places of retreat, tranquillity and community - aspects that are becoming increasingly important in the modern working environment.

The design of modern working environments requires more than just desks and meeting rooms. The trend towards hybrid forms of work has revolutionised the office, and hybrid communal spaces such as office cafés play a central role. But not every office café is the same - four different archetypes offer different focuses and uses. The challenge for employers is to find out which of these archetypes, or which combination of them, best suits the needs of their own company.

On November 21 and 22, 2024, Berlin became a hotspot for sustainable building: Experts from the construction and furniture industries came together at the Climate Festival for the Construction Industry of the Future to discuss sustainable concepts and innovative approaches. Their event strapline, “Together we are changing the construction industry. Sustainable. Taking responsibility. Shaping the future,” offered a platform for inspiration and networking.

Sedus was on site as a partner and set a strong signal for the future of the (office) furniture industry, with a centrally located lounge as well as participation in the panel talk, “Circular interior design - ecological strategies in furniture construction”.

In modern work environments, office cafés have evolved into hybrid spaces that go beyond traditional break areas, where they support a variety of work and relaxation modes. While break rooms are traditionally designed for short periods of relaxation and offer functional facilities such as coffee machines and tables, office cafés create an atmosphere that specifically aims to promote productivity, creativity and social interaction.

At their core, office cafés offer an enhanced experience where both work and relaxation can co-exist harmoniously. They offer far more flexibility and different environments tailored to a variety of working styles and needs.

Working from home has become the norm now there are more opportunities for hybrid working or being in the home office. Especially in the colder months, when the days get shorter, many people make the decision not to commute to the office. Working from the home offers advantages such as improved work-life balance and avoiding costly and crowded public transport. However, those who used to work in different locations such as co-working spaces and cafés face new challenges when working from home. To promote health and productivity, ergonomic measures and good organisation in the home workplace are essential.

Third places such as cafés, pubs and bookshops have always been meeting places for social interaction and team building. They provide space for conversation, creative exchange and relaxation away from the workplace. In recent years, these informal social spaces have evolved significantly as a result of changes in the world of work, driven by the pandemic and the introduction of hybrid working models. The lines between public and private life, between work and leisure, are increasingly blurred, and many workers now expect their office environments to reflect the flexibility and community spirit of these third places.

early bird boasts sophisticated technology, ergonomic and durable quality and a wide range of features. The mechanism designed by Sedus, on which the office swivel chair is based, continues to set standards today.

Like every office swivel chair from Sedus, ‘mr. 24’ also has its own story to tell. Originally, it was designed as an absolute ‘specialist’ – as a model for the toughest of demands in 24-hour use. However, shortly after its market launch, it became clear that the range of potential customers extended far beyond this field of application. And very quickly, mr. 24 also proved its worth in the usual upmarket office environment.

The close connection between coffee and work has deep cultural roots that go back to the 18th century, when coffee houses became important places for intellectual exchange and business activities. This relationship continued to develop with the emergence of modern office culture, making the coffee break an integral part of the working day. Particularly in the early twentieth century, with the introduction of the eight-hour workday, coffee gained significantly in importance as an energy source and social ritual.

Hybrid working: Flexibility, well-being and productivity.

The modern working world is undergoing profound change. Traditional working models, where the office was considered the central place of productivity, are increasingly giving way to hybrid concepts that make the transition between professional and private areas more fluid. Flexibility, well-being and the promotion of productivity are at the heart of this new work culture. But how exactly are hybrid working models affecting our lives, and what role can an office café play in sustainably promoting employee wellbeing and corporate culture?

The world of work is in a state of upheaval. Labour shortages, the changing values ​​of Gen Z and the rapid increase in hybrid working models are forcing employers to rethink their current strategies. Key questions arise: How will work be defined in the future? What role do people play in this new world of work?

The answer lies in the concept of the “Human Office” – an approach that puts people at the centre and radically rethinks the working environment.

The world of work has changed dramatically in recent years. Hybrid models that allow a flexible choice between the office, home office and so-called “third places” such as cafés or co-working spaces have become the new standard. This development presents companies with the challenge of continuing to establish the office as a central place of collaboration, even though the workplace no longer takes place there exclusively. But how can this be achieved?

Hybrid commons are the most accessible and public ‘core’ of the office. These areas are strategically connected to specific work zones, such as desk areas or meeting rooms, and act as the hub of the modern work environment.