Pros, Cons and How to Get It Right
Open plan office design is one of the biggest workplace trends of the last decade and it’s not going anywhere just yet. Especially post covid, many businesses are finding it a great way to boost collaboration, flexibility and staff wellbeing. From creative agencies to corporate headquarters, businesses across the UK continue to embrace open plan office layouts.
While open plan offices can work brilliantly, they’re not a one-size-fits-all solution. When poorly planned, they can lead to noise issues, lack of focus and frustrated teams.
This is where experience matters. At CID Workspace, open plan office design is approached thoughtfully, balancing aesthetics, functionality and how your staff actually work in the day to day.
What Is an Open Plan Office?
Open plan offices remove traditional enclosed offices and permanent walls, replacing them with shared workspaces, flexible layouts and multifunctional zones. The idea is simple: fewer barriers, more interaction and an overall better use of space.
In practice, a successful open plan office relies heavily on smart design, zoning and acoustic planning.
The Pros of Open Plan Office Design
Encourages Collaboration and Communication
One of the biggest advantages of open plan office design is how easily teams can communicate. Without walls and closed doors, collaboration becomes more natural, especially for fast-paced teams that thrive on idea sharing.
We design layouts that encourage organic interaction, while still allowing teams to stay organised and productive.
Better Use of Space
Open plan offices typically allow businesses to make better use of their square footage. By removing unnecessary partitions, offices feel more spacious, lighter and more flexible.
Cost-Effective Fit Outs
From a build perspective, open plan office design can reduce construction costs. Fewer walls, doors and structural changes usually mean a more efficient fit out process.
Modern, Attractive Work Environments
Open plan offices, when done right, look great. Clean lines, natural light and well-designed communal areas create spaces employees are proud to work in and visitors are impressed by.
The Cons of Open Plan Office Design (And How to Fix Them)
Noise and Distractions
Phones ringing, meetings happening or even someone reheating fish in the kitchenette… noise can quickly become an issue.
We tackle this with acoustic panels, soft furnishings, ceiling treatments and zoning, reducing noise without reintroducing heavy walls.
Lack of Privacy
Not every task benefits from collaboration. Focused work, confidential calls and sensitive meetings still need privacy.
That’s why modern open plan office design often includes:
- Quiet zones
- Phone booths
- Meeting pods
- Breakout rooms
Not Ideal for Every Business
Some industries such as finance, legal or consultancy require higher levels of confidentiality and concentration.
Rather than forcing an open plan layout, CID often works with clients to create hybrid office designs, blending open areas with private offices where needed.
How CID Workspace Makes Open Plan Offices Work
The difference between a good open plan office and a frustrating one comes down to planning and execution.
CID takes a practical, people-first approach by:
- Understanding how teams actually work
- Designing layouts around behaviour, not trends
- Incorporating acoustic and privacy solutions from day one
- Delivering high-quality fit outs with minimal disruption
The result? Open plan offices that feel calm, flexible and genuinely productive, not noisy warehouses with desks.
Is Open Plan Office Design Right for You?
Open plan office design can be hugely effective - when done properly. It’s ideal for businesses that value collaboration, flexibility and modern aesthetics, but it must be supported by smart design choices.
If you’re considering an open plan office fit out, working with an experienced specialist like CID Spaces ensures you get the benefits without the headaches. Get in touch to learn more.
Because great office design isn’t about removing walls, it’s about creating spaces that help people do their best work.
Who We Are
We are a team of highly skilled individuals who are passionate about designing and building better working environments in offices, schools and warehouses. We are based in Sussex and work throughout London and the South.
We have a team of designers, estimators and project managers who have the capability with the help of tried and tested sub contractors to run your fit-out or refurbishment project no matter the scale. In an industry of vast faceless corporations we can offer you a personal bespoke service from the initial design stages through building works to completion. We strive to give our customers a design led, stress free, reliable and cost effective service, that’s why a large percentage of our business is made up of happy returning clients.
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Our Featured Projects
Chaotic | Redhill
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