So, what exactly is resimercial design, and why is it having a moment?
As a manager, one of the hardest parts about trying to get your employees back into the office is often that it amounts to pretty poor environmental competition ― home, after all, is comfortable, while offices are, well, stuffy, corporate, fluorescent-lit offices.
Now, bosses who have been paying exorbitant rent for office space more suited to tumbleweeds than workers have a new idea: outfitting those spaces to resemble the cozy homes workers are so resistant to leave.
The approach, dubbed “resimercial” ― interior design that combines elements of both residential and commercial design ― involves bringing an at-home vibe to traditionally cold corporate surrounds.
“A combination of residential and commercial, resimercial design brings aspects of the home into the contemporary workplace,” explains design firm Coalesse. “Creating homelike environments ― where we truly enjoy spending time ― is one way to accommodate the increased demand placed on employees.”
While many companies have thought about downsizing their office footprint, a resimercial approach might suggest converting the unused space to livable amenities. In particular, this means things like couches, complete (and comfortable) kitchens, or outdoor spaces for work in nice weather.
One of the surprising features of resimercial design is an increased interest in installing fireplaces in the workplace, which are “making a comeback,” according to architect Donald Rattner. “No longer tethered to space-eating flues and chases, fireplaces and fire pits can now be installed in workplaces nearly at will, codes permitting,” he writes in Work Design Magazine. “That could well prove a boon for creativity, as there is a long history of ‘aha’ moments striking people while situated fireside.”
The logic behind resimercial design is that comfortable employees are happier and significantly more productive and creative, suggests Jeff Knoll of Ted Moudis Associates. “Creating an authentic space is the true core of residential-inspired design for the workplace. We need to create experiences that help the workforce readjust to the office and promote mental well-being. As we learn to navigate a sense of ‘new normal’, concerns about the transition back to an office setting are valid, and resimercial design could be the answer to many of those questions.”
Content written by Kieran Delamont for Worklife, a partnership between Ahria Consulting and London Inc. To view this content in newsletter form, click here.