As part of Google's massive return-to-work plans, the tech giant has opted to reimagine the modern office by building a variety of innovative new workspaces such as 'Camp Charelston.'
Located at Google's Silicon Valley headquarters, 'Camp Charelston' is an entirely outdoor work environment the blends greenery, wooden decks, open-air tents, and teepees to create a zen-like space where employees can hang out, work, and conduct meetings. Each major tent space has been given a camp-themed name such as 'S'mores,' 'Canoe,' and 'Kindling,' which can be booked out by teams via a sign-up program. According to Google, the company plans to open similar spaces for its London, Los Angeles, Munich, New York, and Sydney offices.
As offices around the world slowly begin opening up, savvy new spaces such as 'Camp Charelston' could become increasingly commonplace. This is because they present both a viable solution for COVID-related workspace concerns, as well as an enticing new experience for employees, helping them get over the hump of having to return back to the office.
Post-Pandemic Work Spaces
Google's 'Camp Charleston' is an Outdoor COVID-Safe Work Environment
Trend Themes
1. Outdoor Workspaces - Companies can create outdoor spaces for employees to work, providing a safer and more nature-based alternative to traditional indoor offices.
2. Theme-based Workspaces - The use of themed workspaces can provide a unique and engaging employee experience, making the return to the office more exciting and enjoyable.
3. Flexible Booking Programs - Implementing a sign-up program for booking workspaces can allow for better organization and accommodation of employee needs and preferences.
Industry Implications
1. Tech - Tech companies can lead the way in creating innovative workspaces that prioritize safety and employee experience.
2. Hospitality - The hospitality industry can adapt its expertise in theme-based and outdoor spaces to provide consulting services for companies looking to create similar workspaces.
3. Real Estate - Real estate companies can work with businesses to transform outdoor spaces into functional work environments, opening up new revenue streams and catering to emerging demand.