Case:

At Smart Solutions, your current office space is cramped (too small). The company has acquired a larger space nearby that can easily accommodate its current 20 employees and has room for future workforce growth. This move creates an opportunity to build a physical environment that reflects key elements of the company's culture: hard-working and team-oriented employees who enjoy working in a fun, casual, and sustainable environment. Several employees have expressed interest in reducing the office carbon footprint.

The new office space has a large kitchen/break area. The company has already procured a large refrigerator and two microwave ovens. There is a storage room with built-in shelving for supplies, and there is an appropriate area for office equipment, such as our centralized printers. Private conference rooms include one large conference room and one small conference room. For employee work areas, a large open area has several large windows for ample natural light. The light grey carpet is in good condition.

Your Assignment:

1. Conduct internet research to find at least two articles about Office Design Trends. At least one of the articles should include information about how to reduce office carbon footprint. Write a summary (at least two paragraphs) of the articles (or videos) and include the URLs of your sources. Describe how some of these trends could be effective in a new office environment for Smart Solutions.

2. Consider the company culture and roles of the employees as you consider office space design. Tie in the relevant office design trends from your research to develop a recommended strategy for office space design for Smart Solutions' new space. In your strategy, incorporate some low-cost ideas for reducing our carbon footprint.

3. Determine what furniture would be needed for your office design scheme. Present a list of recommended furniture to purchase (or move from the current office) and write a paragraph explaining your reasoning. Relate your recommendation to your strategy for office space design.

Assignment: Submit a memo "Office Design" that includes the following headings:

• Office Design Trends
• Smart Solutions Office Design Strategy
• Recommended Furniture