Covid 19 has no doubt enforced change, but it has also nurtured invention and adaptability as a global workforce comes to terms with new ways of working and doing business. At one point a buzzword, now a reality, the flexible home workspace was born and it may well be here to stay.
Ryan Williams, James Tobias Head of Innovation & Product Design, loves a design challenge and he explains the processes he went through to create a uniquely flexible home workspace.
The evolving workplace
Flexibility is always at the front of my mindset when I’m designing products at James Tobias, but it’s particularly relevant when considering the modern workplace. The workplace has always had to fulfil many needs; naturally there’s the physical (structural, sustainable), but increasingly more important are the emotional (well-being, comfort) needs of the people within them. As a race we develop, adapt and interact with our surroundings and what we achieve in these ever-changing environments are a reflection of that.
Adapting the role of the desk
Faced with the challenge of working in new ways and in different environments, flexibility formed the bedrock as I started to devise a product suitable for the flexible home workspace. A product that not only solved the immediate problems, but was adaptable enough for the future.
At James Tobias we can create almost anything using woods and metals, so a simple hoop leg frame combined with a wooden top gave me an immediate dispensable option. But what then? Will I always need a desk? If I’m not using it, would the kids use if for school work? Was this solution practical enough, considered enough? Could I improve the function of a desk to give me more?
Quebix inspiration
I designed a product for James Tobias called Quebix. It’s a stackable, display/storage structure designed to give a bespoke solution while still using a rigid, modular system. Quebix is hugely versatile and continues to develop as we explore its’ practical options. It’s a great zoning product: visually pleasing, it’s comfortable in a multitude of interior environments, including the home. So it made perfect sense that I turned to Quebix for inspiration.
Keeping it simple
Like many goods ideas, the finished design was a simple one. I created a range of bases using Quebix blocks and added a bespoke worktop to link the units together. However, I still wanted more from my workstation! Using just one additional panel, I maximized Quebix versatility, transforming the desk into versatile storage and display units.
Now when it’s not needed as a desk, the units can be quickly reconfigured to create useful shelving or display that compliments almost any home interior.
Bespoke design and innovation
James Tobias have a 30 year legacy of design, manufacturing and installation. They’ve proved time and again that the best design solutions don’t always need weeks or months of complicated (over) engineering.
Ryan & his team are ready to discuss the best way to create your next innovative, bespoke built interior, so contact James Tobias today.
