Creating Spaces Within a Space: How Pods Support the Way We Work
At Connect Interiors, every space in our WorkLab was intentionally designed using Steelcase’s Community-Based Design principles, which recognize that people need different environments to focus, collaborate, and recharge throughout the day. Our goal was to create a workplace that supports a variety of work modes while demonstrating practical solutions our clients can apply in their own spaces.
Campers & Dens: Flexible Spaces for Focus, Collaboration, and Rejuvenation
One of the most unique additions to our showroom is Campers & Dens, a modular architectural pod designed to support multiple ways of working. Whether someone needs a quiet place to focus, a setting for small group collaboration, or a moment to reset and recharge, this space adapts to the need.
Rather than relying on traditional construction, Campers & Dens demonstrates how organizations can create highly functional “spaces within a space.” Enhanced acoustics, integrated technology, access to natural light, and varying levels of privacy make the environment both productive and comfortable. The freestanding design also provides flexibility, allowing spaces to evolve as workplace needs change.
Because this was a new addition to our showroom, it wasn’t created to solve an existing challenge. Instead, it was intentionally selected to showcase innovative ways organizations can create flexible, acoustically enhanced environments that support both focused work and collaboration without permanent construction.
On the QT: Privacy When You Need It
Open workplaces encourage connection and collaboration, but they also need spaces that support individual focus and privacy. That’s exactly why we incorporated On the QT, our acoustic phone booth pod.
Designed for focused work, private conversations, and moments of rejuvenation, this enclosed space provides a retreat from the activity of the surrounding showroom. Located within our welcoming, collaborative environment, it demonstrates how thoughtfully designed workplaces can balance openness with the need for concentration.
In many traditional workplace layouts, focus spaces are placed within open areas with limited separation, making it difficult to achieve meaningful privacy. On the QT solves that challenge by providing a dedicated enclosed environment where users can step away, concentrate, make a call, or simply recharge without distractions.
Designing for Choice
The most effective workplaces aren’t one-size-fits-all. By offering a variety of settings that support different work styles, organizations can empower people to choose the environment that best supports their task at hand.
Campers & Dens and On the QT are two examples of how intentional workplace design can create balance between collaboration, focus, flexibility, and well-being. They’re not just products on display in our WorkLab. They’re real-world solutions that help people do their best work.
Why It Matters
When employees have access to spaces designed for both connection and concentration, they experience greater comfort, privacy, and productivity. It’s a simple concept, but one that can have a lasting impact on workplace performance and employee experience.
At Connect Interiors, we believe great workplace design starts with understanding how people work and creating spaces that support them every step of the way. Reach out today to schedule a tour!