The Workplace Watch Vol. 2

Welcome to another edition The Workplace Watch addressing the paradigm shift which is now unfolding in the workplace.

As designers of buildings, office spaces and urban environments, our profession has a profound impact on the human condition. It is therefore our responsibility to create solutions that serve, protect and advance the health and welfare of the public.

In our second installment of this series we are focusing on specific spatial typologies found in tenant interior spaces. We will address each typology’s unique traits and shared commonalities, while highlighting the potential cost and scheduling implications associated with the implementation of post-COVID-19 design features.

We hope this will provide you with some thought starters as you begin to make informed decisions regarding your space(s). Watch for our next piece focusing on the areas a building landlord will need to address in order to safeguard tenants and guests.

Arrival: First Impression

The entry sequence and waiting area(s) are a critical first line of defense for all employees and guests


Social distancing of receptionist (2 weeks) Hand sanitizer stations (1 week) Enhanced cleaning protocols (1 week)	Infrared thermal monitoring system / process (1-4 weeks) Wellness + safety communication signage (1 week) – see Spark Kits Enhanced HVAC filtration (MERV) rating (2-6 weeks) Implement biophilic attributes (4-6 weeks)	Touchless access to suites (8-12 weeks) Introduction of germ-resistant materials (6-8 weeks) Create a controlled reception space (8-12 weeks)

Collaboration Spaces: Open / Closed

Conference Rooms, Open Collaboration areas and other gathering spaces need to address spatial proximity and frequently shared surfaces


Social distancing of items within amenity spaces (1 week) Dedicated scheduling of room types per teams / per day(s) Reduce quantity of seating per room for social distancing Enhanced cleaning protocols (1 week)	Touchless access to restrooms (8-12 weeks)	Entertain connecting stairs between floors Install UV-C light system(s) Introduction of germ-resistant materials (6-8 weeks)

Workspaces + Open Office Environment

Private offices, Workstations and adjacent areas need to protect users and ensure productivity


Social distancing of receptionist (2 weeks) Wellness + safety signage – see Spark Kits (1 week) Hand sanitizer stations (1 week) Enhanced cleaning protocols (1 week)	Enhanced HVAC filtrations (MERV) rating (4-6 weeks) Fresh air via HVAC setting / window access (4-6 weeks) Implement biophilic attributes (1-8 weeks)	Introduction of germ-resistant materials (6-8 weeks)

Amenity + Public Spaces

Cafes, Townhalls and other social spaces essential for company culture need to be safeguarded


Social distancing defined (2 weeks) Hand sanitizer stations (2 weeks) Enhanced cleaning protocols (1 week)	Wellness + safety kits – see Spark Kits (2 weeks) Introduction of germ-resistant materials (6-8 weeks) Implement biophilic attributes (4-6 weeks)	Fresh air via HVAC setting / window access (4-6 weeks)