The Future of Work: Creating Spaces that Foster Community and Collaboration

The future of work isn’t just about adapting to remote flexibility and leveraging cutting-edge technology—it's about creating environments that inspire, engage, and bring people together.

With much of the workforce, including healthcare workers, unable to work remotely, having a workplace that aligns with workers' needs remains vital to our well-being. We spend a third of our waking hours and more than half our lives at work. So, how are businesses embracing this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to rethink how we work?

Recent years have seen a shift to remote and hybrid models, with many upgrading their home offices to support their workplace needs. While these changes offer benefits like reduced travel time and flexibility, they've also underscored a longing for the sense of connection inherent in office environments. Employers are now exploring ways to reestablish the value of commuting to a physical workplace.

So, as we adapt to new ways of working, it's important to craft spaces that not only accommodate but actively cultivate a sense of belonging and collaboration.

Embarking on a new chapter for the business, CMR | Cornerstone Medical Recruitment (CMR) founders, Samantha Miklos and Norbert Miklos , emphasised the importance of community when designing the new office space at CMR’s Brisbane headquarters in Fortitude Valley. In the refurbishment, they envisioned a workplace that brings everyone together, encourages collaboration, and fosters a strong sense of connection.

Their aim is simple: to create a space where our team feels valued, inspired, and connected.  A place where CMR healthcare workers comfortably pop in for a coffee, pick up a uniform or connect with their consultant. A new home for us all.

“In our future office, we want a fun, satisfying workplace that fosters a healthy culture and spirit, encouraging collaboration and teamwork around every corner. Our vision is to build a space that brings out the best in our team, empowering them to contribute meaningfully to our shared goals.”

“The new office isn't just about treating our candidates and employees with the latest fads—it's about energising us all and fostering a sense of community. Practically, the space also needs to provide flexibility for the future and reflects our commitment to sustainability.”

With this aspirational brief in mind, our design team have set out to transform the CMR office into a hub of connected neighbourhoods. Their focus is not on grandiose statements or lofty ideals but on practical solutions that enhance the everyday experience of our team members.

Their vision for CMR’s new workplace is to serve as the 'nexus' of the business: providing innovative spaces for creative thinking, acting as a conduit to bridge the gap between rural employees and office-based team members, and cultivating a stronger sense of community that reflects CMR’s brand and values.

The team at Geyer believe the future reception and town hall will embody this ethos: a company-wide meeting space for 150 people, featuring tiered seating and modular lounges, serving as hub for collaboration, connection, and celebration, where we can host events and invite our CMR community in to enjoy.

Here are some of the principles behind our new office design reflecting the evolving landscape of modern work.

Nurturing a Sense of Community

At the heart of our design is a commitment to community. We believe that creating a sense of community within the office is essential for employee wellbeing. By designing spaces that encourage spontaneous interactions and focus time for collaborative projects, we're building a culture where every team member feels they can connect. Our new office features communal areas and open-plan layouts that are perfect for casual conversations and team meetings. By providing spaces where team members, client and healthcare workers can come together, share ideas, and build relationships, we're creating a supportive environment where everyone feels valued and included.

Multi-Functionality

A modern workplace should be versatile to meet the changing needs of its occupants. Our office design includes multi-functional spaces that can be easily reconfigured for various purposes, from workshops and training sessions to social events and casual meetings. Flexibility is key to maintaining productivity and efficiency, and by providing spaces that can adapt to different activities and requirements, we're ensuring that our office remains a dynamic environment. Whether employees need a quiet corner for individual work or a large area for team brainstorming, our office can accommodate their needs.

Sustainable Design

From the ground up, sustainability is woven into every aspect of our office design. Australian-manufactured carpets made from 100% recycled nylon, bespoke furniture crafted from reclaimed components, and acoustic panels fashioned from recycled materials. We've utilised acoustic panels, fabrics, and curtains, made from recycled materials (diverting upwards of 6000 PET bottles from landfill on this project), as well as other finishes such as flooring made from coconut husk waste. Many of our finishes were selected for their recycled content and ability to be fully recycled after use. While incorporating plants and repurposing existing built forms not only reduces our environmental footprint but also brings the benefits of biophilia into the workspace.

Designing for Everyone

The new CMR office is designed to provide better connections and facilities than employees might have at home, featuring more meeting rooms, additional kitchen, wellness facilities, breastfeeding and first-aid room along with vibrant social areas that enhance the overall work experience. Our office includes accessibility features, quiet rooms for focused work, and flexible workstations adjustable to individual requirements. By prioritising inclusivity, we're actively promoting a culture of equality and respect.

Empowering Growth and Impact

But our new office isn't just about us—it's about the communities we serve and the impact we make. With a more enhanced space for growth and collaboration, we're better positioned to support our clients and meet the needs of healthcare workers across Australia. From Recruitment Support to Payroll, our expanded team enables us to make a difference by providing skilled healthcare workers where they are needed most.

At CMR, we place healthcare professionals in critical roles that make a difference in our Australian communities. If you want to help us create even greater experiences for our clients and healthcare workers, get in touch our talent team, Kate Coomber Courtnay Sapieja & Bronte Sinclair to hear about our rewarding recruitment and operational roles talent@cmr.com.au.