Have there been any big surprises recently in design trends?
Coworking stands out as the most unique trend of late. The surprise has not been the popularity of facilities, but rather the popularity of the culture and how quickly permeated the mainstream. Looking back on it, the advent of a coworking environment seems inevitable. Post recession, an entire workforce that grew up in corporate America was in need of new surroundings, but lacked the resources or desire to create a space to which they were accustomed. As they improvised in their new shared work settings and mingled with a variety of disciplines, they found there were advantages to adopting this more "alternative" way of working. These advantages reflected positively on the bottom line, something that all companies take note of. Instead of referencing the standard social media and technology giants, clients are now pointing to "coworking" space for that hip and leading-edge office space. It not only employs a workforce they can better identify with, but it also drives innovation and results that they want and need.
Answers provided by Amanda Carroll, Associate, Gensler.
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