Redefining the Future of the Office

The connected, communal and configurable workplace

Herman Miller are always exploring the future of the office and how their products can cater to it. Their latest investigation into the changing face of work is: Work, Redefined – The Design Challenge 2021.

For the challenge, they invited a selection of designers to conceptualise the workplace of the future, submitting their concepts to a panel of expert judges. The starting point was an empty (digital) space, with parameters established by the team. Designers were asked to use a curated selection of Herman Miller products to power their space, and the results were exciting, inspired and innovative.

For it's winning submission, Melbourne design studio SLAB said farewell to a workplace model based on formal work and productivity in favour of one that emphasised “social opportunity, human connection and collaboration.” With remote work an ongoing prospect, the studio presented the office as a social experience that was adaptable to shifting density numbers without compromising on its “vibe”. 

One standout design feature of SLAB’s presentation was The Wall & Curtain. Featuring fluted glass sliding walls and white cotton curtains on tracks, The Wall & Curtain allows organisations and their users to turn a larger meeting space into several smaller spaces geared towards collaboration and/or focus work or simply to close off sections of the office when fewer people are working onsite. 

More on the challenge and the winning entry: here