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ET Spotlight India’s workplaces are undergoing a quiet revolution. With 12.7% of the workforce now remote and 28.2% hybrid, the traditional office model is becoming a thing of the past. By the end of 2025, an estimated 60 to 90 million Indian employees are expected to work remotely or in a hybrid setup. This isn't just a logistical change; it's a fundamental shift in what we expect from our workspaces. The office is no longer just a place for productivity; it’s a hub for purpose, well-being, and connection.In sectors such as technology and services, this evolution is a necessity. Prolonged work hours, endless virtual meetings, and blurred boundaries are leading to widespread burnout. Employees are no longer just seeking a job; they’re looking for an environment that supports their performance and their peace of mind. Work, at its best, brings people purpose.This is where human-centered design comes in.The rise of human-centric designToday’s employees expect more than a desk and a coffee machine. They need spaces that allow them to concentrate, collaborate, and recharge. Forward-thinking companies are moving past conventional layouts to create environments that prioritise human performance and holistic health.This isn’t about just adding a few plants or fancy chairs. It’s a strategic investment in creating spaces where people feel better and think more clearly. Key elements include:Live EventsBiophilic design: Integrating natural elements to reduce stress and improve mental clarity.Ergonomic workstations: Supporting posture and physical comfort to prevent fatigue and strain.Quiet zones: Offering dedicated spaces for focus and mental recharge, a vital antidote to overstimulation.The surprising value of privacyIn the age of open-plan offices, the need for privacy has become a linchpin of productivity. A Steelcasestudy found that 69% of middle managers reported a lack of privacy at work. The result? Nearly 50% of employees take video calls from their desks, leading to constant interruptions, rising fatigue, and a measurable drop in focus.Designing for privacy doesn’t mean isolating people. It means empowering them with choice. Whether it’s a quiet pod for a sensitive call or a reflective corner to recharge, giving employees control over their environment is crucial. These spaces are vital for a hybrid workforce, bridging the gap between virtual and physical interactions and reducing cognitive overload. The best workplaces build a culture of belonging by using design to reflect trust and inclusivity. Key trends in driving this include:Neuroinclusive design for employees with sensory sensitivities.Flexible layouts that adapt to different working styles.Personalisation that allows individuals to “own” their space.Cultural Cues, such as regional design elements and local materials, make the space feel authentic and welcoming.This is where adaptable solutions, like Steelcase's, come in. They empower employees to move fluidly across work modalities. In hybrid-heavy office spaces, design-forward privacy can restore calm, reclaim energy, and reinforce the autonomy essential for a high-performing culture. ET Spotlight Tirthankar Basu, Managing Director, India & SAARC, SteelcaseFrom places of pressure to places of possibilityIndia’s workplaces are on the cusp of a new era. Space is no longer just an infrastructure; it's a strategic lever for well-being and growth. As hybrid models mature, human-centric design will be the key to not only attracting talent but also nurturing it. Through intentional choices—from natural light and private zones to adaptable spaces and wellness corners—organisations can create environments that help people feel seen, supported, and empowered.Contributed by: Tirthankar Basu, Managing Director, India & SAARC, SteelcaseAdd as a Reliable and Trusted News Source Add Now! (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel) (This article is generated and published by ET Spotlight team. You can get in touch with them on etspotlight@timesinternet.in) Read More News onsmart office designSteelcaseworkplace productivitybiophilic design (Catch all the Business News, Breaking News and Latest News Updates on The Economic Times.) Subscribe to The Economic Times Prime and read the ET ePaper online....moreless (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel)Read More News onsmart office designSteelcaseworkplace productivitybiophilic design(Catch all the Business News, Breaking News and Latest News Updates on The Economic Times.) Subscribe to The Economic Times Prime and read the ET ePaper online....moreless
