Flexible office: innovation and adaptability in workspaces

The concept of flexible office space, often associated with flex office, refers to an adaptable working environment designed to meet the changing expectations of companies and employees. Unlike fixed or assigned office space, flexible office space is characterised by modular spaces that can be easily reconfigured according to use.

A flexible office incorporates a variety of areas adapted to current needs:

• desk-sharing workstations
• equipped meeting rooms
• collaborative spaces
• as well as areas for relaxation and creativity

This approach strikes a balance between efficiency, collaboration and well-being at work, while enabling better management of property costs.

So Pop: a flexible and innovative building

So Pop, due for completion in 2022 in Saint-Ouen, illustrates Covivio’s innovative approach to flexible office design. With 32,000 m² spread over seven floors, this scalable building offers a constantly evolving working environment.

Its modular furniture and museum-like shell make it a true canvas for artistic expression. Future occupants will have flexible spaces that can evolve according to their uses and internal organisation.

Its unique feature: occupancy sensors that allow the leased space to be adjusted upwards or downwards in the months following the signing of the lease. This innovation perfectly illustrates the intelligent management of flex office space.

What is the difference between an open-plan office and a flex office?

An open-plan office is a shared workspace where all employees share the same area, often without partitions. Flex office, on the other hand, is based on the non-allocation of workstations and the adaptability of spaces. This organisation promotes employee autonomy and optimises the use of available space.

Flex office and labour law: what do you need to know?

The implementation of a flex office must comply with labour law and guarantee good working conditions. This means providing sufficient, diverse and suitable spaces (quiet areas, meeting rooms, collaborative spaces). Companies must also engage in dialogue with staff representatives to oversee the evolution of working methods.

What are the advantages of flex office for a company?

Flexible office space allows for better use of land and space, while promoting collaboration and agility within organisations. It also helps to reduce property costs by optimising the actual occupancy of spaces. It is a strategic asset for supporting the transformation of work and the competitiveness of companies.

How can a successful flex office layout be implemented?

Setting up a successful flex office layout requires accurately assessing the needs of teams and involving employees from the design stage onwards. It is also essential to combine collaborative areas, individual spaces and relaxation areas. This approach ensures smoother adoption and greater comfort in the workplace.

What is the difference between a flexible office, coworking and a fixed office?

A flexible office is modular and can evolve according to the needs of the company. Coworking is based on sharing space with other organisations, while a fixed office assigns a workstation to each employee. The flex office, meanwhile, falls between these models, offering flexibility, personalisation and resource optimisation.