As the world evolves, so do the spaces we inhabit for work and education. With innovation at the forefront, productivity trends have shifted to accommodate the diverse needs of learners and workers alike – everyone is different, so it makes sense that everyone works differently, too!

The Sandton Convention Centre in Sandton Central is playing host to the 2023 School and Office Expo, so in preparation, we’ve decided to explore some of these shifts in the way we work. From informal break rooms to sustainable practices, here are the trends that are revolutionising productivity:

Informal Break Rooms

Gone are the days of stuffy, sterile break rooms. Modern work and school spaces have embraced the importance of relaxation and rejuvenation for productivity. Informal break rooms encourage colleagues and classmates to bond over snacks and conversation, taking a break from work and studies to recharge their batteries. Whether it’s a comfortable couch or a game table, these break rooms provide an escape from the monotony of work and studies, promoting a positive work-life balance. Lunch hour should be fun!

Purposeful Quiet Spaces

On the opposite end of the spectrum are purposeful quiet spaces, designed to help learners and workers focus without distractions. These spaces allow individuals to work without interruptions, whether they need to take an important call or concentrate on a complex task.

These quiet spaces are also beneficial for introverted learners and workers who require silence to perform their best. In essence, purposeful quiet spaces provide the opportunity for deep thinking and focused work. Think zen, cosy, neutral and hyper-focused.

Indoor Plants for Healthier Air

The presence of indoor plants in work and school spaces has been found to have numerous health benefits. Not only do they enhance the aesthetic appeal of the space, but they also improve air quality by absorbing pollutants and releasing oxygen.

Indoor plants can also help reduce stress levels and increase productivity, making them an ideal addition to any curated concentration space. Whether it’s a small potted plant on a desk or a larger plant display in a common area, incorporating plants into the workspace is a trend that is gaining traction. They also add a sense of company morale when they bloom or blossom.

Greater Sustainability

As sustainability becomes a growing concern in society, schools and offices are taking steps to reduce their environmental impact. From energy-efficient lighting to eco-friendly furniture, sustainability is a trend that is revolutionising the way we work and learn.

Reusable water bottles and coffee cups are becoming commonplace, while paperless systems and digital storage are reducing the need for excessive paper use. This trend not only helps the environment but also promotes mindfulness and responsibility. It also means you don’t have to bring files to work or school, which is a bonus for the “heavy-backpackers” among us.

Flexible Workspaces

Gone are the days of stringent cubicles and fixed workstations. Modern offices and learning spaces are now designed to accommodate different working styles and preferences, with open floor plans, flexible furniture, and movable partitions. This trend allows employees and learners to choose the workspace that best suits their needs, whether it’s a private office, a shared desk, or a cosy corner with a comfortable chair. Let people choose the type of workflow that allows them to be their most productive selves.

Embracing Diverse Types of Learning and Information Retention

Finally, schools and workplaces are beginning to embrace diverse learning and information retention methods. No longer is the one-size-fits-all approach acceptable. By acknowledging and accommodating different learning styles, educators and employers are ensuring that every individual has an opportunity to excel.

Whether it’s through visual aids, hands-on learning, or audio recordings, diverse methods of learning and retention are being incorporated into modern work and school spaces. You’ll be sure to find tons of solutions that align with this philosophy of productivity and learning at 2023’s School and Office Expo!

Productivity, space and stationery trends are evolving with the changing times, and schools and offices are leading the charge! Informal break rooms and purposeful quiet spaces promote a healthy work-life balance, while indoor plants and sustainability efforts prioritise the well-being of individuals and the environment.

Finally, flexible workspaces and embracing diverse types of learning and information retention ensure that every individual has an equal opportunity to succeed. When decision-makers in office and school spaces follow these trends, they can create environments that foster productivity, creativity, and overall well-being. Be on the vanguard of changing the way we work when you innovate with Sandton Central! Register as a visitor today!