ABSTRACT
The design of offices has undergone considerable evolution over the past two decades. This reflects change in the way we work, which is itself the result of technological innovation and new business models. New information technologies, new working practices, the demands of sustainability and new opportunities within an ever-expanding services sector have greatly altered the structure, shape and form of office architecture. In particular, there has been an erosion of traditional authority structures, knowledge flows faster than ever, and there are multiple stakeholders and multiple targets from levels of carbon emission to workplace performance and productivity. The office as a building type is stressed by complex problems of knowledge coordination, system integration and the demands of ever-expanding technical and legal requirements from energy targets to health and safety. However, in spite of the complexities (or as a result of them) innovation is occurring.
