Orangebox - Campers & Dens Design Story (Part 1)

Summary

The video discusses the evolving concept of workplace design, moving beyond traditional pod-like structures to a more nuanced environment termed 'campers and dens.' This approach emphasizes varying layers of privacy, inspired by the intuitive experience of camping in a campervan. The speaker illustrates how different settings—closed doors, semi-open awnings, and open fields—represent levels of social interaction in the workplace. The goal is to create collaborative and inviting spaces that employees desire to visit, transforming the workplace into a delightful destination rather than a mere obligation.

Takeaways

• 🏢 The concept of 'campers and dens' represents a complete reinvention of workplace design.
• 🔄 Traditional product development strategies, such as using pods, are becoming irrelevant in modern workplaces.
• 🌐 Interior architecture should encompass various spaces, from fully enclosed to fully open, to cater to different privacy needs.
• 🔍 The idea of 'intuition' in workplace design relates to the familiar experience of camping in a camper van.
• ☕ A camper van creates distinct zones of privacy: inside is private, under the awning is semi-private, and in the open field is communal.
• 🤝 Workspaces should facilitate collaboration and be inviting places where people want to spend time.
• 🌟 The goal is to create delightful destinations for employees, making them eager to visit rather than feeling obligated.
• 🛠️ Layered privacy options in design enhance comfort and encourage more productive interactions.
• 🏕️ The experience of camping can serve as a metaphor for how we interact in workspaces.
• 🎉 Future workplaces are envisioned as enjoyable and engaging environments that prioritize human connection.

Q & A

What is the concept of 'campers and dens' in the context of workplace design?

The concept of 'campers and dens' represents a complete reinvention of the built environment, extending beyond traditional pod structures to include various layers of privacy in workplace design.

How does the analogy of a campervan relate to workplace design?

The campervan analogy illustrates different layers of privacy and space usage, where being inside the van signifies 'do not disturb', while being outside under an awning offers a semi-private space, and being in an open field invites social interaction.

What is meant by 'layers of privacy' in the workplace?

Layers of privacy refer to different levels of openness and seclusion in workspaces, allowing individuals to choose their preferred level of interaction and solitude based on their tasks and needs.

Why is intuition considered an important element in workplace design?

Intuition is important because it draws on familiar experiences, such as camping, to inform how spaces should be designed to meet the psychological and social needs of employees.

How does the speaker envision the future of workplace collaboration?

The speaker envisions a future where workplaces become more collaborative spaces that are inviting and enjoyable to be in, rather than obligatory places to visit.

What does the speaker suggest about the emotional aspect of workplace environments?

The speaker suggests that workplaces should be designed as delightful destinations that people want to visit, enhancing their overall work experience.

In what ways are traditional product development strategies seen as irrelevant in modern workplaces?

Traditional product development strategies are viewed as irrelevant because they do not accommodate the evolving needs for flexibility and privacy in contemporary work environments.

What are the benefits of creating inviting workspaces?

Creating inviting workspaces can lead to increased employee satisfaction, enhanced collaboration, and a greater willingness to engage with colleagues and tasks.

How does the concept of 'invitation only' play a role in workspace design?

The 'invitation only' concept signifies that certain areas of the workspace are designed to be more private and exclusive, fostering a sense of personal space while still allowing for social interaction when desired.

What overall message is conveyed about the future of workspace architecture?

The overall message is that future workspace architecture should be flexible, intuitive, and accommodating of various social dynamics, promoting both collaboration and personal privacy.