Employee preferences for WFH means workplaces need to utilise office spaces as a tool to connect with staff. In Better Workplaces, AdNews looks at how agencies use office design to entice staff to come in and create a company culture worth staying for.
Perched high above Brisbane sits independent communications group BCM Group's penthouse office on level 19.
Overlooking some of the city's most iconic landmarks, the office's most striking feature is two outdoor decks, one facing west and the other facing east with views down the Brisbane river, over the Story Bridge and out to Moreton Bay.
Without a doubt the private, outdoor decks are the highlight of the space, used for work, meetings, mind clearing, events and socialising.
The river deck has the best outdoor view in the city of the annual Riverfire event says BCM Group partner and managing director Phil Mcdonald.
Balcony views.
Designed by Ellenberg Fraser architects six years ago, the office layout is completely open plan, because each discipline teams are mixed.
Media sits with creative, digital with PR, strategy and account management.
Overview of staff desks.
"There are no layers or silos in how we create, so there are none in how we sit and work together," Mcdonald told AdNews.
"The space is minimalist and without clutter. Nothing gets in the way of the work or getting to the idea."
Staff desks.
The agency currently has 36 people and the office still has a little bit of room for growth.
"Everyone has their own desk, but often people move and plug-in with a certain team they are working with, so flexibility is encouraged," Mcdonald said.
Meeting room.
Interestingly unlike Sydney and Melbourne which opt for work-from-home schedules, Brisbane agencies are mostly fully in the office.
"We predominantly work from the office. It’s always been WWF here – ‘work with flexibility’ and the Post-Covid world didn’t really change that," Mcdonald said.
"There are no set hours for work, people are grown-ups and life balance is everything. The rule is enjoy freedom, but don’t let our clients or your team down in the process."
Foyer.
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