Since the COVID-19 pandemic, businesses have modernized how their employees work by implementing hybrid workplace models. This allows employees to split their time between home and the office. This shift has brought new challenges to workplaces, such as the need to optimize energy usage in the office while employees are working remotely. The latest facility technology, like smart buildings, lighting controls, and building automation systems, provide facilities with the means to cut down on consumption and adapt to changing occupancy levels while still prioritizing employee comfort.

Advanced Lighting Controls for Hybrid Offices

Efficient lighting is a cornerstone of energy conservation in hybrid workplaces. Advanced lighting control systems, such as occupancy sensors and daylight harvesting, ensure optimal illumination based on real-time needs. Occupancy sensors will turn lights on and off when they detect employees are present. Facility managers can even set timers that will turn lighting on and off automatically based on a set schedule. Lastly, daylighting is when the artificial lighting automatically dims itself based on the amount of natural light coming into the office. All of these lighting solutions will be able to cut down on electricity usage when employees aren’t in the office.

Building Automation Systems (BAS): The Brain of Smart Offices

Building Automation Systems (BAS) integrate and automate multiple building functions, including HVAC, lighting, and security, through a centralized platform. In hybrid workplaces, BAS offers seamless adaptability to changing occupancy levels. For instance, the system can reduce HVAC usage during off-peak hours, ensuring resources aren’t wasted on empty spaces. Additionally, BAS leverages real-time data from sensors to optimize operations, improving energy efficiency and reducing costs.

BAS can use this data for a variety of purposes, such as predictive maintenance. These sensors will notice when lighting needs to be replaced or when maintenance is required through the patterns in energy usage. When there is a change in typical patterns, alters can be sent to facility managers and recommend improvements. These features make BAS a cornerstone of smart workplace technology for hybrid offices.

Smart Zoning Solutions

Smart zoning allows for precise controls in specific areas of the office. Once zones are established, facility managers can adjust the lighting and HVAC needs throughout the zones based on occupancy. For example, meeting rooms with higher foot traffic can be cooled more efficiently, while unused areas remain in standby mode to conserve energy.

Smart zoning will collect data to measure when certain areas of the office are most occupied and adjust the lighting and temperature based on those results. For hybrid workplace models, occupancy in zones can change each day. Office zoning solutions allow a comfortable work environment while ensuring energy isn’t being wasted on empty spaces.

Benefits of Smart Building Controls in Hybrid Workplaces

Smart controls have been revolutionizing commercial properties by allowing them to cut energy costs, reduce consumption, and improve workplace efficiency. Through smart building controls and BAS, companies can prepare themselves for the future by having the latest technology, positioning themselves as an environmentally conscious brand, and reducing energy consumption by 40%.

Beyond financial and environmental benefits, these systems enhance employee productivity and satisfaction. By implementing human-centric lighting practices, like daylighting, your company will create a more comfortable workplace for the employees. These practices improve an employee’s circadian rhythm, which has a direct impact on sleep cycles, resulting in more alertness and focus. When employees are able to customize their work environment, they will be more productive both individually and in teams. Together, these benefits position smart building controls as essential tools for modern workplaces.

Design Trends for Hybrid Workplaces

Hybrid workplaces are reshaping office design to accommodate flexibility and adaptability. Key trends include the integration of collaborative zones, quiet focus areas, and hybrid meeting rooms equipped with advanced technology. Social spaces are also becoming a priority, fostering connection and combating the isolation often experienced during remote work.

Flexibility in office layouts is crucial. Modular furniture, acoustic pods, and adaptable spaces cater to various work modes, from deep focus to team collaboration. Technology integration, such as high-quality video conferencing tools, ensures seamless communication between in-office and remote employees. Additionally, human-centric lighting and energy-efficient systems align with employee well-being and sustainability goals. These design principles, paired with energy-efficient office design strategies, create an environment that supports productivity and engagement in hybrid workplaces.

Conclusion

Hybrid workplace models are a desirable benefit for employees and will help a company attract the best talent. Solutions like zoning, advanced lighting controls, and BAS are key to creating a more efficient workplace. By optimizing the workplace for hybrid models, businesses can cut energy usage and additional costs and create a healthy work environment for employees. Incorporating these hybrid workplace tips into your office design can help your organization stay ahead in a rapidly evolving work landscape.

Action Services Group offers expert advice on creating the perfect environment for your workplace. Our specialists can walk you through selecting the technology and lighting products that will meet your energy goals. To speak with one of our specialists, call 610-558-9773, email [email protected], or schedule a call that fits your needs by clicking the button below.