Unworking

The Reinvention of the Modern Office

by Jeremy Myerson and Philip Ross

"Unworking (2022)" dives deep into the metamorphosis of our professional environments and the evolving essence of work in this modern era, propelled by cutting-edge technology and shifting societal norms. This compelling read sheds light on the transition from conventional office spaces to dynamic, human-focused settings. Through a tapestry of varied case studies and profound insights, it emphasizes the urgency to embrace a revamped work terrain where teamwork, innovation, and holistic well-being are paramount.

About the Authors

Jeremy Myerson stands as a distinguished scholar and author, holding esteemed titles such as Professor Emeritus at the Royal College of Art and the Helen Hamlyn Chair of Design. His explorations into design and innovation are profound, with "Crafting Universal Designs" being one of his standout works.

Philip Ross, a visionary on the future trajectory of work, is not only a seasoned tech analyst but also the driving force behind UnWork.com, a consultancy that delves into pioneering work methodologies. Their combined expertise has paved the way for groundbreaking discussions on the confluence of design, tech, and the workplace's ongoing transformation. Their collaborative literary ventures also feature titles like "Innovative Workspaces" and "The Office of Tomorrow".

The Evolution of Workspaces

The metamorphosis of the office environment is undeniable. The seismic jolt of the COVID-19 pandemic compelled us to reevaluate our conventional workspace paradigms. As the world pivoted to remote work, a pressing query emerged: What's the blueprint for the future of work?

Now, trailblazing companies stand at the crossroads of reimagining the workspace with humanity at its heart. To thrive, the emphasis must shift from micromanagement to fostering trust in self-directed teams, and from static environments to vibrant, adaptable spaces. Both leaders and their teams are keenly observing the trajectory of this transformation. To be a voice in this discourse, it's crucial to challenge and redefine our perceptions of the office space. This profound redefinition of work and its environment is what Myerson and Ross term as “Unworking.”

In this era, where foundational beliefs about work are being upended, we possess the agency to sculpt the next chapter. Together, we can mold workspaces that champion creativity, wellness, and human potential. The horizon invites us to envision the unimaginable.

In this summary, we'll delve into this monumental shift, contemplate potential solutions, and seek to demystify the enigma of the future work landscape.

Tracing the Office's Footprints

To forecast the office's future, we must first journey through its past.

The archetype of the modern office has witnessed dramatic transformations over the decades. In the early 1900s, offices were molded by principles of scientific management, with a singular focus on boosting productivity. The Larkin Building of 1904, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, became the poster child for this era, championing the mantra “Intelligence, Enthusiasm, Control.” Employees operated under watchful eyes in open spaces devoid of privacy. Though productivity soared, well-being and creativity took a backseat.

Fast forward to the latter part of the 20th century, a more "socially democratic" office blueprint emerged, with Scandinavia's SAS Airlines at the forefront. Their 1988 headquarters was a testament to empowerment, teamwork, and a sense of community. These spaces mirrored the essence of a village rather than an industrial behemoth, challenging the age-old fixation on hierarchical control. Yet, remnants of top-down design ideologies lingered, failing to cater to the diverse needs of the workforce.

As we ushered in the 21st century, work dynamics evolved to be more agile, distributed, and digitally anchored. Modern offices transformed into hubs within intricate webs connecting organizations, teams, and missions. Steve Jobs, with his visionary prowess, saw offices as crucibles for serendipitous encounters, rooted in the belief that innovation sprouts from unplanned mingling.

The advent of COVID-19 supercharged this evolution. The pandemic's onset saw workspaces shuttering, propelling businesses and their workforce to embrace remote work and its digital enablers. Discussions once confined to executive suites became ubiquitous, resonating with employees across hierarchies: How will the future of work manifest, and what's the next avatar of the modern office?

While a faction remains tethered to age-old hierarchical models, progressive entities are dabbling in unparalleled flexibility concerning work's time and place. The new norm is a blend of remote and flexible work. When present in the office, employees anticipate spaces that resonate with their physical, emotional, and social needs. True transformation mandates a co-design approach, empowering employees to shape their surroundings.

By harnessing design acumen and technological prowess, the office's destiny is to transcend its role as a mere productivity hub. The future is anchored in workspaces that prioritize efficacy, wellness, and adaptability. Employees yearn for autonomy, empowerment, and environments that strike a balance between task requisites and humanistic values.

The office's journey, from scientific management to social democracy and intricate networks, has been enlightening. Yet, each phase fell short of unlocking human potential fully. As the nature of work continues to evolve, pioneering entities must craft work experiences rooted in human trust over rigid processes.

Now, let's embark on an exploration of these transformations and the potential trajectory of the office's evolution.