The social spaces trend, which started as a piggyback off resimercial and domesticated design ideals, has become pervasive throughout every nook and cranny of the office space. Boardrooms are disappearing as multi-functional community spaces centered around lounge furniture take their place. Cafes and break rooms are not only commonplace, they’re required by employees. Where there was once a small desk, now lies a giant bean bag. And it’s not just offices. Universities, and even primary and secondary schools, are building more and more areas for their students to be human and interact with one another.
And there’s a reason for it. Lynn Metz, a nationally recognized interior designer, notes four reasons why social spaces are on the rise: they support the lifestyle of younger generations, and lifestyle, they multiply opportunities for member engagement, they encourage collaboration, and they are supported by our growing internet of things.