Space

An office environment is meant to support its occupants in reaching the highest level of performance for their job. Although each office space varies, due to functionality purposes or design preferences, they all maintain a form that facilitates the four work modes outlined by Gensler. The first mode is focus. The choice to implement a cubicle system in most offices of the 20^th and 21^st century, was a perfect way to allow employees to meet this requirement. The cubicle provides a isolated area where you can read, write, analyze, or do any other work without disruption. It promotes workers output and even allows the employee to create a personalized environment that can inspire them.

The next mode is collaborate and this ideal became possible once office spaces decided to include meeting rooms, lounges, and spaces for support activities available to the office community. These defined spaces meant for working with others and sharing ideas encourage the concept that each employee is just one piece of the puzzle, and that a group effort is necessary to achieve the best solution.

The ability to learn is another ideal of the work place. Many offices now offer training programs to encourage growth and competitiveness amongst workers. One proponent of this drive to progress in the company comes from the distinctions made between different levels of employees through accommodations and luxury offices. Seeing that a manager gets a space even more private and aesthetically pleasing, creates aspirations and an emphasis on learning.

The last mode discussed by Gensler is the ability to socialize. This need for socialization and forming relationships is a basic human instinct, and can provide relief from the stressful work environment. The kitchen area of the office is where most of this interaction takes place. A single large table evokes a sense of community, and allows for workers to eat together and take a break. Be able to have a designated space for socializing gives workers something to look forward to in the middle of their day, and allows for happy moments to be associated with their job.