01 Back to the office
How spaceplanning is impacted
Don’t overlook the lobby In today’s consulting firms, the lobby is no longer just a waiting area—it has evolved into a multifunctional space, much like the airport lounges of major airlines. These lounges cater to travelers in transit, and similarly, consulting firms’ lobby are designed to offer comfort, service, and reflect the company’s brand identity. These spaces are thoughtfully designed to meet various practical and professional needs. To stay connected and productive during their wait, visitors can work thanks to a high-speed, secure guest Wi- Fi network. These areas support productive work, offer a comfortable space for waiting, or facilitate informal meetings, all while ensuring a seamless and welcoming experience. Additionally, like airport lounges, these lobby areas provide a range of services: information, assistance, relaxation zones, refreshments, and snacks—all creating a professional yet comfortable atmosphere. Visitors immediately dive into an environment that subtly showcases the company’s brand, without being overwhelming. This versatile, client-centered approach leaves a solid first impression and positions the consulting firm as modern and hospitable. Just as airport lounges enhance the image of airlines, consulting firms’ lobbies become a strategic asset, blending comfort, efficiency, and modernity to deliver an exceptional experience for every visitor. From large to small spaces Consulting firms need to provide a variety of spaces that allow employees—whether working solo or in teams—to be productive and adaptable to different work situations. This diversity redefines the concept of space planning, no matter the size of the organization. At Allure, we’ve noticed in recent years that consulting
firms are investing in spaces that range from very large to more compact ones. Larger spaces are designed for hosting major events like large gatherings, executive speeches, festive evenings, onboarding sessions, or any event requiring the presence of most or all employees. These “in-house” spaces reinforce a sense of belonging to the company, especially for consultants who spend much time at client sites. Meanwhile, the rise of videoconferencing has driven a growing demand for smaller, private spaces dedicated to confidential conversations. Phone booths or pods, for instance, have become essential. These offer a quiet, connected space where employees can focus, equipped with the technology and comfort needed for efficient work.
Space planning is the process of thoroughly analyzing how to use physical spaces in offices, buildings, and corporate settings. It involves strategically allocating areas such as workstations, meeting rooms, and shared spaces to optimize the available space.
Fixed vs. modular spaces Allow for quick reconfiguration of spaces depending on the various needs throughout the day: a cafeteria that serves its primary function during the day but transforms into a screening room in the evening, or an auditorium with modular seating that can host large-scale events as well as small, creative work sessions. Collaboration zones throughout the workspace, these areas enable teams to gather around a project quickly. The furniture is modular—and even playful—to contrast with the more formal posture of bench-style workstations and to encourage interaction. The goal? To relieve congestion in meeting rooms and make it easier to spark dialogue.
7
Made with FlippingBook Digital Publishing Software