Witnessing several evolutions of the office space, we have seen the back and forth dance from open layout in the 1950s, transitioning to stuffy cubicles in the late 1960s to the early 1990s. As we advanced into the late 1990s and early 2000s there was a revisitation of the open space concept, however, a few might argue that the open office honeymoon is now over. Businesses are continually pushing the boundaries and getting creative with their chosen work space. These days there are even storage facilities that rent out space!
Today’s workforce, 75% of which is classified as young, places high value on a strong work-life balance. So, time spent at work needs to be in a comfortable, satisfying environment, which provides a lavish feast for the eyes, filled with agreeable perks and flexible workspaces.
The Intern, a Nancy Meyers film starring Anne Hathaway and Robert De Niro, hit theaters last fall and has recently been released on DVD. Meyers, well known for her visually stunning set designs, does not disappoint with her latest film. During glimpses of the film’s trailer we are swept away by Jules’s perfectly positioned desk, sleek in design, it’s covered with all the right tools, such as handcrafted wooden cups containing, single colored, pens and pencils in addition, two computers sit adjacent to a vase of stunning red roses. The staff enjoy the benefits of an in-house masseuse and a juice bar sure to inspire a healthy, diet of fresh fruits complete with the latest protein powders, and served in fancy glassware.
Over the years the movie industry has taken us on a journey, touring several offices spaces where we wouldn’t mind spending our own working hours.
1. The Fountainhead
Gary Cooper aside, you can’t help but notice the visually stunning, black and white scenes of large wooden desks with floor to ceiling windows while the New York skyline is peering in at you. There are large pieces of solid, but comfortable looking furniture. It certainly appears that there is enough space for one to spread out and be comfortable.
2. Bond series – MI6
MI6, along with James Bond, have both gone through decades of evolution. However, who wouldn’t want a peek inside while Bond receives his latest scolding from M or to get our hands on the latest gadget Q has to offer.Copiers doubling as a safe cracker or even better, a multi-touch table, allowing you to scan paper by laying them on the table or where documents can spin and be flung across the table with a simple touch.
3. Big
When Tom Hank’s character, Josh, trades in his cubicle for a beautiful corner office with a view, we’re instantly jealous, not of the view, but of the big, comfy couches, the giant bean bag chair, and the closet bursting with toys.
4. The American President
The feel of Andrew Shepard’s Oval office is warm and inviting with the grand Resolute desk and the oversized tan couches with soft pillows. You could relax at the end of the day with a game of billiards by the fire and who wouldn’t want a personal tour of the “Dish Room”.
5. What Women Want
Darcy Maguire is the new girl at a traditionally, boys only, ad agency in Chicago, yet she moves in fast and creates an office space that says strong and confident. Her red walls matched with her soft sofa plus her oriental inspired furniture and a room filled with congratulatory flowers make for a space where you can put your feet up on your desk all while generating some brilliant ideas.
6. How to Lose A Guy In Ten Days
Surprisingly, let’s not talk about Andie’s space at Composure Magazine, while bright and airy it’s still filled with dreaded cubicles. No, let’s invade Benjamin Barry’s office, where the warm cherry wood blinds and the strong french doors open up into an inner sanctum of game tables, coffee pots, and a dart board.
7. The Devil Wears Prada
Once the space is free of Miranda Priestly, there is a deep appreciation for the streamlined, functional furniture, including glass top desks, tall bookcases and high ceilings. Projecting an angular, curvy look , it’s also filled with brilliant colors. Besides, who doesn’t want the possibility of free clothes?
8. Friends with Benefits
Dylan runs an internet blog and the workspace is designed to be collaborative with the desk arranged in a circle. What makes the space even better is the smart board that is set up so everyone can contribute and it immediately goes up on the board.
9. This Means War
Lauren’s office at Smart Consumer is a bright space, filled with sleek, modern, white furniture and rainbow colored plexi panels and lights throughout the space. I imagine testing the strength of a fry pan with a blowtorch could help you blow off a little steam.
10. The Internship
Office space at Google? Eighteen restaurants, napping pods, and laundry service. When can I start?
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