Haven: Settings That Bring Us Together
6 mins
The workplace is rapidly changing with the increase in remote and hybrid work. But what about those moments of organic and spontaneous interactions that only happen in-person? Oftentimes, problems aren’t solved in planned ways, but as a result of impromptu conversations.
As the workplace is rapidly changing with the increase in remote and hybrid work, workers are finally getting more flexibility. However, with the rise of malleable work schedules comes a decrease in rich and meaningful in-person interactions.
Thanks to the rise of software like Slack, Microsoft Teams, and Zoom, teams are still able to collaborate and share information in real-time.
But what about those moments of organic and spontaneous interactions that only happen in-person? Oftentimes, problems aren’t solved in planned ways, but as a result of impromptu conversations.
Haven, designed in collaboration with Watson and Mike & Maaike, is a collection of tables and tools to bring us together intentionally and purposefully. The workplace is transforming into a social haven for people and ideas to thrive, and Haven is the tool we all need.
Haven is Inviting
According to a research study by the University of Alberta, circular shaped seating arrangements prime a need to belong. It found that sitting in a circular-shaped layout encourages individuals to evaluate persuasive material more favorably when containing group oriented cues. Basically, sitting at square shapes promotes the focus on “me,” and sitting at circular shapes promotes the focus to be on “us.”
This is something we’ve intuitively known. That’s why Haven is designed with rounded tabletops to encourage inclusivity and group-oriented decision making. Haven’s soft corners and circular shapes are an invitation to collaborate and ensure all ideas and people have a seat at the table.
Haven is Adaptable
The uniqueness of the Haven line is that each piece is designed without tailor-made functions to allow a sustainable adaptability for each Haven piece to be used in many settings, for many purposes, for many years to come.
Haven invites organic interactions anywhere people come together. It enhances the social dynamic and facilitates collaborations with an array of accessories including the Neighborhood Light, planters, media screens, and integrated power capabilities. Haven can be moved easily and rearranged for agile spaces and evolving teams.
Haven is Simple
With simple lines and adaptable function, each table serves its purpose quietly and intentionally. The distinctive leg profile features a flat front face that blends well with any architecture and the rounded back softens spaces. The foot touches the floor gently which helps to give the collection a light and friendly character. The unique Haven Edge softens the profile as if the surface is gently swept under.
The beauty of Haven is in the intentionality of design that is executed simply and gracefully. From the placement of the Foot Rail, to the HighLow Tables with a joint that pivots, to the dimmable Neighborhood Light, and integrated coat hooks, there is beauty in the subtle details.
Haven is Reimagining Meeting Spaces
As we return to the workplace with a new sense of purpose for real-life interactions, it is an opportunity to reimagine how to create more organic collaboration in the places we come together in planned ways.
Haven can transform predictable conference rooms into dynamic hubs for teams to work together. Haven’s multi-height settings, agile media tables, and mobile work tables inspire teams to collaborate in active ways.
With Haven, you can create multiple zones in one meeting room using an array of table shapes, sizes and heights to facilitate dynamic interaction with team members both present and virtual. Media Mounts attach directly onto the table with or without the Media Panel to easily share any idea or to create an inclusive conversation for virtual team members.
Haven is For Periphery Spaces
Haven brings purpose to unused and under-utilized spaces. The Perch Table and Recharge Bench create an inviting setting in a compact footprint. Their simple and agile design adds a moment of comfort and recharge for people in transition or on the go.
The Haven Recharge Bench’s narrow and compact design adds functionality to transition spaces. The bench can be moved easily and rearranged. The rounded, upholstered seating surfaces are islands that draw people in from both sides. Often missing in bench seating, the subtle separation between the two seats provides a feeling of personal space.
The Workplace is for Haven
As the workplace is changing, so are the settings that bring us together.
But no matter how your team and schedules may change, Haven is the setting that will continue to bring us together and ensure every person and idea has a seat at the table.