Every once in a while, I speak with someone whose perspective helps you see the workplace through a new lens. In this episode of Fika Friday, I sat down with Ashwini K.T., General Manager of Research and Design at Vestian, to explore how workplace design is evolving and what it really means to create spaces that people want to be in.
With over twelve years of experience in architecture and workplace research, Ashwini has seen the shift firsthand: from rigid, function-first layouts to dynamic, human-centric environments. Her focus on sustainability, inclusivity, and health-driven design offers a timely and insightful take on what’s next for the spaces where we work.
Design Is About People
Ashwini didn’t mince words when describing the state of workplace design today: “The future is all about this war for talent.” And in that war, the physical environment has become a frontline asset to retain people.
Where companies once obsessed over cost-per-square-foot, the conversation has shifted to value. And employees are leading that conversation, asking: Is this space healthy? Does it support my well-being? Does it reflect the kind of organization I want to work for? Design, in other words, is a strategy.
From Infrastructure to Human Experience
Ashwini emphasized how design priorities have evolved from pure infrastructure and efficiency to holistic human well-being - physiological, psychological, and even neurological.
It’s a 180-degree turn from what many of us remember from pre-pandemic office norms. We’re moving away from sterile spaces and towards environments that encourage connection, calm, and clarity. Things like access to natural light, quiet zones, social hubs, and even indoor greenery are no longer “nice to have.” They’re part of what defines a great place to work.
At Mapiq, we often talk about how the workplace experience begins the moment you decide where to work for the day. Ashwini’s design philosophy aligns perfectly with this: space should support human choice and intention.
Designing for Five Generations
One of the most fascinating parts of our conversation was Ashwini’s focus on designing for a multi-generational workforce. In countries like India, where the workplace spans Gen Z all the way to those in their 60s, flexibility is about designing spaces that meet different expectations around collaboration, focus, and hierarchy.
Today’s office must be modular, flexible, and sensitive to vastly different work styles. That means spaces for deep work, areas for socialization, tech-enabled zones for virtual collaboration, and everything in between.
The Rise of Community-Based Design
Ashwini shared how modern workplaces are taking inspiration from urban design, essentially functioning as “mini-townships.” There are collaborative plazas, quiet neighborhoods, wellness zones, cafes, and even art installations, all designed to make the workplace feel less like a factory floor and more like a living ecosystem.
It’s a powerful idea: the best office spaces foster belonging. And this shift has big implications for workplace strategy. As we redesign for purpose, experience, and connection, we’re also redefining what success looks like.
Quality Over Quantity
In a post-pandemic world, employees have seen what’s possible. They’ve experienced autonomy, wellness, and control over their schedules. So when they do come into an office, their expectations are higher.
"People are no longer questioning investments on the real estate side, but they're questioning value."
That means the new workplace has to feel intentional, designed with care, and optimized for people rather than policy.
Flexibility is Non-Negotiable
Ashwini made it clear that the idea of a 9-to-5, five-day office schedule is becoming a relic. Hybrid working is here to stay, not just because it’s convenient, but because it’s essential for work-life balance. Especially in cultures where people are balancing caregiving, commuting, and community life, flexibility has become a core value.
Breaking Down Hierarchies
One of the most powerful threads running through our conversation was how design is reshaping organizational culture. The pre-COVID era often reflected hierarchy in its very layout - corner offices, rows of identical desks, barriers between teams.
Today’s spaces, Ashwini argues, must reflect empathy, openness, and equality. The physical design should match the cultural values we claim to stand for.
Final Thoughts: Designing for What’s Next
Ashwini left us with a compelling reminder: the future of workplace design is evolving. And great design anticipates the change.
From multi-use spaces to wellness-driven layouts, from tech-integrated collaboration zones to socially impactful design, the modern workplace is becoming a dynamic reflection of our values. And leaders who invest in that vision are creating better organizations.
Tune in to the full episode to hear Ashwini’s take on how to design for people, purpose, and long-term impact. Catch Fika Friday at The Office wherever you get your podcasts.
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