Five takeaways from INNO 2025
Five takeaways from INNO 2025, בית ונוי - Bait Venoy's international conference on innovative workspace strategies:
1. 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗲𝗼𝘂𝘀 𝗰𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗮𝗯𝗼𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗱𝗼𝗲𝘀𝗻’𝘁 𝗵𝗮𝗽𝗽𝗲𝗻 𝗶𝗻 𝗼𝗽𝗲𝗻 𝘀𝗽𝗮𝗰𝗲 (𝗼𝗽𝗲𝗻 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝗻), 𝗶𝘁 𝗵𝗮𝗽𝗽𝗲𝗻𝘀 𝗶𝗻 מעברים (𝗰𝗶𝗿𝗰𝘂𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘀). Incorporate amenities like seating and white boards in these in-between spaces to capitalize on these interactions.
2. 𝗪𝗲𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝗲𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗼𝘆𝗲𝗲 𝗲𝗺𝗽𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗮𝘂𝘁𝗼𝗻𝗼𝗺𝘆 𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗼 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗼𝗳𝗳𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗱𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗻. For a smaller team, this can look like surveying employees before designing your office to incorporate their feedback and ideas. For a large company, this could mean creating neighborhoods in which each team decides for themselves how they want the space to function (e.g., assigned seats, no assigned seats, assigned only to those who come daily, etc.)
3. 𝗗𝗼𝗻’𝘁 𝘂𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗰𝗲𝗽𝘁𝘂𝗮𝗹 𝗿𝗼𝗼𝘁𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝗮 𝗱𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗻 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗷𝗲𝗰𝘁. Whether it’s the Olympics logo that inspired 3XN/GXN's spiral staircase for Olympic House in Switzerland or a beating heart that became the blueprint for Gensler’s NVIDIA headquarters in California, drawing on meaningful symbols and narratives leads to spaces with soul that speak to the specific needs and values of a company. Thoughtful, story-driven spaces fuel people and company culture.
4. 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗶𝗺𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗻𝗮𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗹 𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝗰𝗮𝗺𝗲 𝘂𝗽 𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗮𝗴𝗮𝗶𝗻. Don’t overlook daylight when you’re office hunting or building one from scratch. Outdoor space is another plus. (What was exhausting about a full day of lectures? Not the interesting lectures! Rather it’s the sitting in a dark windowless room for hours on end.)
5. 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝘃𝗮𝘀𝘁 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗼𝗳 𝗮 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗻𝘆’𝘀 𝗲𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗻𝘀𝗲𝘀 𝗶𝘀 𝗶𝘁𝘀 𝗽𝗲𝗼𝗽𝗹𝗲, 𝗻𝗼𝘁 𝗶𝘁𝘀 𝗲𝗻𝗲𝗿𝗴𝘆 𝗯𝗶𝗹𝗹 — 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘺𝘦𝘵, 𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗶𝗻 𝗮 𝗴𝗿𝗲𝗲𝗻 𝗯𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗰𝗮𝗻 𝗶𝗺𝗽𝗿𝗼𝘃𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗽𝗲𝗼𝗽𝗹𝗲’𝘀 𝗰𝗼𝗴𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗳𝘂𝗻𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗯𝘆 𝟮𝟲%. Optimizing air quality, thermal conditions, lighting, and acoustics isn’t just trendy or earth-friendly; it impacts how your people work, and office design in 2025+ is always people-centered.
Your office should empower creativity, build belonging, support teams, and reflect your company’s shared values. Then the focus isn’t on coercing employees back to the office, rather about attracting people, fostering connection, and driving innovation and purpose.
That’s a lot of buzz words for a Sunday, but baby, it’s true.
Open Space: Yay or Nay?
The open-plan or “open space” office trend has been around for decades. Is it right for you?
It depends on the goal of your office. Do you want to optimize:
Productivity?
Collaboration?
Employee satisfaction?
Retention?
If your teams are working at home most of the time and they come into the office for meetings, teamwork, and social cohesion, open space with a hot-desk arrangement combined with meeting rooms and pods could work great.
If you need people’s heads down for focused work for long periods, an open-space setup may be too noisy and distracting (and drive people nuts).
Ideally you can de-densify enough to offer options for both quiet focused work and more collaborative and social interaction.
If space is limited, make sure you don’t blindly follow a trend that hurts the bottom-line goal of your office.
?מגמת המשרדים האופן ספייס קיימת כבר עשרות שנים. האם היא מתאימה לכם
:זה תלוי במטרה של המשרד שלכם. האם אתם רוצים למקסם
?פרודוקטיביות
?שיתוף פעולה
?שביעות רצון העובדים
?שמירה על עובדים
אם הצוותים שלכם עובדים מהבית רוב הזמן והם מגיעים למשרד לפגישות, עבודת צוות וחיזוק הקשרים החברתיים, משרדים פתוחים עם ארגון הוט-דסקינג בשילוב חדרי פגישות ופודס יכולים לעבוד מצוין.
.אם אתם צריכים שהעובדים יתמקדו בעבודה שקטה לאורך זמן, סידור פתוח עשוי להיות רועש ומסיח דעת (ולגרום לעובדים לאבד סבלנות)
.באופן אידיאלי, אפשר להפחית צפיפות מספיק כדי להציע גם אפשרויות לעבודה ממוקדת ושקטה וגם לאינטראקציה שיתופית וחברתית
.אם המרחב מוגבל, ודאו שאתם לא עוקבים בעיוורון אחרי טרנד שפוגע במטרות העיקריות של המשרד שלכם
Ingenious innovation in indoor plants
Last month I had a fascinating visit and lab tour of Tomgrow. They’re an Israeli agri-tech company with a patented dirt-free, low-water solution for indoor plants: a nutrient-rich gel that keeps the plants hydrated and thriving (even in artificial light).
Growing plants in Tomgrow’s gel means you skip the mess and hassle of dirt and water your plants only once or twice a year (!). The easy upkeep makes designing greenery into the office a breeze, and it also means plants can be near computers and tech without risk, making for endless design options.
Bringing plant life and natural elements into the office improves employee well-being and makes the office a place people enjoy spending time in.
A big thank you to Tali Osadon, who showed me how Tomgrow’s gel is made and the experiments they’re doing to continuously optimize its performance and expand the line of plants they can grow, from flowers to produce.
Love seeing Israel take the lead in green and efficient solutions in biophilic design!
5 Signs your office is falling short (and limiting your potential)
𝟭) 𝗘𝗺𝗽𝘁𝘆 𝗱𝗲𝘀𝗸𝘀 𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘆𝘄𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲 – Hybrid is here to stay, but if no one wants to come in, that's a red flag. A well-designed space should draw people in and make the office the 𝘣𝘦𝘵𝘵𝘦𝘳 place to work.
𝟮) 𝗧𝗼𝗼 𝗹𝗼𝘂𝗱 / 𝘁𝗼𝗼 𝗾𝘂𝗶𝗲𝘁 – Open concept chaos or eerily silent cubicles? Both extremes kill productivity. Balance is key and people need choice: collaborative zones 𝘢𝘯𝘥 focused areas.
𝟯) 𝗣𝗲𝗼𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗺𝗲𝗲𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗿𝗼𝗼𝗺𝘀 𝗷𝘂𝘀𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸 𝗮𝗹𝗼𝗻𝗲 – This often means they’re craving privacy and can’t find it elsewhere. If your meeting rooms are full of solo workers, it’s time to rethink your layout.
𝟰) 𝗡𝗼𝗯𝗼𝗱𝘆 𝗸𝗻𝗼𝘄𝘀 𝘄𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗴𝗼 – Confusing layouts, no clear zones for different work styles, or poor signage can make even the most beautiful office frustrating to use.
𝟱) 𝗜𝘁 𝗱𝗼𝗲𝘀𝗻’𝘁 𝗿𝗲𝗳𝗹𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗰𝘂𝗹𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲 – If your space doesn’t 𝘭𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘧𝘦𝘦𝘭 like your brand, it’s a missed opportunity. Your office should reinforce your values the moment someone walks in — instead of feeling like it could be any other company in the world.
Office design is about functionality, flexibility, brand identity, and giving people a reason to 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵 to be there.
Does your office show signs it needs reimagining? Book a call with me and we’ll discuss it.
Anatomy of a Kitchen 101
(Because Python won’t program your mug storage for you)
𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗯𝗹𝗲𝗺: Pillars in the middle of the space
𝗦𝗼𝗹𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: Wrap island around pillar and adjust cabinet depths
𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗯𝗹𝗲𝗺: Beams running through the ceiling
𝗦𝗼𝗹𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: Tuck lighting neatly behind to conceal and wrap carpentry
𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗯𝗹𝗲𝗺: Client wants to store Passover items nearby but there’s no space
𝗦𝗼𝗹𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: Blow out a boydem/attic overhead to create ladder-accessible storage
𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗯𝗹𝗲𝗺: Pillars need to be indestructible
𝗦𝗼𝗹𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: Cover in stain-resistant porcelain tiles that mimic Jerusalem stone
𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗯𝗹𝗲𝗺: Many appliances to store, some that get used often
𝗦𝗼𝗹𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: Appliance garage with built-in outlets
𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗯𝗹𝗲𝗺: Client wants a second fridge, but building a new kitchen around two separate fridges is inelegant
𝗦𝗼𝗹𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: Get one large 120cm double fridge instead
𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗯𝗹𝗲𝗺: Client visits appliance store and thinks the freezer section is too narrow
𝗦𝗼𝗹𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: Rework plans to accommodate a 140cm fridge with a better freezer
𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗯𝗹𝗲𝗺: Client has tons of stuff
𝗦𝗼𝗹𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: Build extra cabinetry under the bar
𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗯𝗹𝗲𝗺: Client also wants vertical pan storage, pull-out garbage, built-in drying racks, towel holders, display shelving, corner storage, a netilat yadayim, cold water, a large island, onion and potato drawers, two ovens, two dishwashers, three separate utensil areas, and custom storage for oversized and unusually shaped items
𝗦𝗼𝗹𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: Plan it baby.
Every client is different. Every space is different. And for every client and space there are unique solutions.
Float your desk
Many people instinctively push their desks against a wall.
Try the Feng Shui 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗽𝗼𝘀𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 instead.
You should face outward with a clear view of the door and your back to a solid wall for a sense of security, control, and leadership (CEO). This setup minimizes distractions and helps you feel more at ease.
Desk tips:
✅ 𝗙𝗮𝗰𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗱𝗼𝗼𝗿, 𝗯𝘂𝘁 𝗻𝗼𝘁 𝗱𝗶𝗿𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗹𝘆 𝗶𝗻 𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲
Position your desk to see the entrance without sitting directly in front of it, for better awareness and energy flow.
✅ 𝗦𝗼𝗹𝗶𝗱 𝘀𝘂𝗽𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁 𝗯𝗲𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗱 𝘆𝗼𝘂
Place a solid wall or high-backed chair behind you for stability. Avoid sitting with your back to a window unless covered with curtains (backlighting can turn you into a silhouette on Zoom).
✅ 𝗕𝗮𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲𝗱 𝘀𝗽𝗮𝗰𝗲 𝗼𝗻 𝗯𝗼𝘁𝗵 𝘀𝗶𝗱𝗲𝘀
Avoid placing your desk too close to a wall; keep both sides open or supported by furniture for balance.
✅ 𝗗𝗼𝗻'𝘁 𝗳𝗮𝗰𝗲 𝗮 𝘄𝗮𝗹𝗹
If necessary, use mirrors or artwork to create a more open, inspiring space.
✅ 𝗚𝗼𝗼𝗱 𝗻𝗮𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗹 𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗮𝗶𝗿 𝗳𝗹𝗼𝘄
Sit near (but not in front of) a window if you can.
Experiment with floating your desk and see how it transforms your workflow and mindset.
Private office vs coworking: Which one fits your business?
Once I went to sign a lease on an apartment and met the realtor duo at a coworking office. They had a meeting room booked and the space looked professional and nicely designed. I felt well taken care of.
Would I have felt the same if I were signing to purchase a multi-million-dollar penthouse? Maybe not.
Some businesses need a space that reflects their brand and their offer, gives them full control over their environment, and fosters productivity. Other businesses value flexibility, networking, and cost savings.
A breakdown:
🏢 Private Office
✅ Pros:
• Custom branding and design that reflect your company culture
• Personalized layout to enhance productivity
• Full privacy and control over the space
• Long-term stability for growing teams
❌ Cons:
• Higher costs and longer lease commitments
• Fewer organic networking opportunities
☕ Coworking Space
✅ Pros:
• Can be more cost-effective
• Lease flexibility
• Great for networking and spontaneous collaborations
• Amenities and perks built in
❌ Cons:
• Less privacy and control over design, as well as potential for noise and distractions
• Inconsistent availability for desks and meeting rooms
• Less rooted, more transient atmosphere for your employees and guests
Both options have their perks, and the best choice depends on your business needs.
Have you ever been 𝘵𝘩𝘳𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘰𝘧𝘧 by someone’s office? How about pleasantly surprised? Why? I would love to hear about it.👇
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Need help designing your new office so your employees love coming to work? Send me a WhatsApp message to schedule a discovery call: 053-892-6032
Latest Press
I’m excited to share my latest press in Mako Living:
https://www.mako.co.il/living-home-styling/Article-07e497177496491026.htm
In this office, the desk, desk chair, sideboard, and armchair were all purchased on Facebook Marketplace — a great place to find unique vintage furniture. Incorporate wood to add warmth and character to a space. The cabinet in the living/dining area is also second-hand.
Thank you Limor Keller for the feature.
מתרגשת לשתף את הפרויקט שלי שהתפרסם
במשרד הזה כל הרהיטים — השולחן, כיסא העבודה, המזנון והכורסה — נרכשו בפייסבוק מרקטפלייס. זה מקום מעולה למצוא בו פריטי וינטג’ ייחודים. עץ תמיד מוסיף חמימות ואופי לחלל. גם הארון שבסלון/פינת האוכל הוא יד שנייה.
תודה ענקית ללימור קלר על הכתבה!
Photos: Peled Studios // יואב פלד
WeWork Office, Flatiron, Manhattan
Before I designed this WeWork office, it was sitting on the market, unsold. I gave the space a refresh with new furnishings and fixtures, textiles, fresh paint, artwork, and plants, while taking advantage of local sales and vintage finds. Not long after, the office successfully sold along with my decor.
The “Quiet Room,” WeWork Flatiron
I divided the office area into zones and gave each zone new life and character. In the open workspace there were many windows, but buildings on all sides prevented sunshine from flowing in. The space felt dim and clinical. I gave the back wall a coat of bright green paint to bring a feeling of freshness and nature into the urban view.
In the gathering space at the entrance, I combined several textures to create depth and warmth: textiles like the woven rug and throw pillows, harder materials like the metal table and mirror side table, as well as ceramics and a basket with blankets.
This WeWork had three private offices, the tiniest of which felt like a sad closet in its original hospital white. I pulled out the desk, added comfortable seating, and painted it black to convert it into a moody “quiet room” meant for individual phone calls or one-on-one conversations. The depressing tiny office became an enticing, cozy spot dedicated to specific tasks.
The “Quiet Room,” WeWork Flatiron, NYC
From Spreadsheet to Bookshelf
In the #beershevatraditional project, my clients wanted a wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling bookshelf to accommodate their library. Their library included books of all shapes and sizes, from kids books accessed daily to various sets of Jewish sefarim to tall megillot used once a year. My clients wanted each type of book to have a clear home, with little space wasted above and around the books. That meant that a set of short 17-cm books needed a different size shelf than a 32-cm-tall set, and a 41-cm-wide set and 90-cm-wide set needed different neighbors. Out the window went the symmetrical bookshelf, in came the spreadsheet:
I ran a few trials to figure out how and where on the bookshelf each type of book could be placed. Once we landed on an arrangement that felt good to them, I tweaked surrounding shelves to make the asymmetry cohesive. Below is where we landed. Since they wanted to keep the existing AC units throughout the home, we worked around the living room AC. And because we needed a tall space high up to accommodate the infrequently used megillot, at left, I balanced this out with a tall space at lower right, in keeping with the overall asymmetry of the piece.
Below you can see the living room when the previous owners still lived there. We removed the old light fixtures as well as the drywall-plus-lighting piece jutting out at top right.
My clients also wanted electrical outlets within the bookshelf, and we included two sconces on the bookshelf for atmospheric lighting. When you want electrical points all over a concrete wall, this is what it looks like to make that happen:
And here’s the bookshelf during installation:
It’s been a while since my clients moved in. I’m looking forward to taking final photos before 2024 wraps.
