Designer Insights: The Future of Offices
Vol.6 Finding the ‘Individual’ within the Office: The Role of Design Furniture
It has already been some time since work environments diversified with the rise of remote work and hot-desking. At first, many didn’t quite know what to make of the changes in office spaces but have now grown accustomed to them. Even as office environments are becoming more open, what has recently drawn attention, perhaps unexpectedly, is the concept of ‘individual’ spaces. This article presents some examples of design furniture that show what the concept of the ‘individual’ might be about from now on.
Report by Miki Homma / Lifestyle journalist
One example is the product brand 201°, created by the design company DRAFT. In an age where companies tend to promote communication among employees, the round, dome-like COOM truly stood out when exhibited at ORGATEC TOKYO 2024. The three colour options, featuring muted tones, further add a trendy appeal.
The name of the product combines the words ‘concentrate’ and ‘room’ to form ‘COOM’. Its form, reminiscent of the letter R, envelops the person using it. Fabric panels made from recycled PET resin create a warm and inviting space.
I inquired about the development background and about what kind of professional roles require furniture that creates individual separation even as openness and freedom seem favoured in today’s offices. It turns out that such designs are particularly well-received by professionals like project managers who handle detailed coordination tasks. Unlike conventional partitions, furniture like COOM completely encloses the user, hiding even their profile.
The COOM also absorbs sound, making it easy to take phone calls or join web meetings without worrying about disturbing those around you. At just one meter wide, its compact size makes it a convenient option for situations that don’t quite justify booking a room or constructing private compartments.