Workplace Design

Why Community-Based Design Is the Future of the Workplace

Designing Workplaces Like Communities: A Fresh Lens for Create Spaces

In recent years, the nature of work — where, when, and how it happens — has shifted dramatically. Many organizations now ask: how do we design a workplace that supports flexibility, connection, and purpose? One of the most compelling responses comes from Steelcase’s concept of Community-Based Design — the idea that offices should borrow the social logic of great cities to build environments where people feel they belong.

At Create Spaces, we believe this philosophy resonates deeply with our ethos: places should not merely host work — they should nurture community. Below, I’ll walk through the core ideas from Steelcase’s piece and reflect on how they can guide our workplace design approach in real projects.

The Challenge: Work Gets Lonely on Screen

Steelcase’s research highlights one of the biggest shifts: more work is happening online, even when people are in the office. Many “meetings” are just video calls at desks, not shared face-to-face interactions.

This “living on screen” mode distances us from spontaneous encounters and the casual collaborations that often spark innovation. The upshot? Even in hybrid offices, people feel isolated — and organizations see declines in belonging, culture, and connection.

To counteract this, workplaces must do more than offer desks and meeting rooms. They need to architect social life through intentional workplace design.

Workplace Design

What Community-Based Workplace Design Looks Like

Steelcase’s research highlights one of the biggest shifts: more work is happening online, even when people are in the office. Many “meetings” are just video calls at desks, not shared face-to-face interactions.

This “living on screen” mode distances us from spontaneous encounters and the casual collaborations that often spark innovation. The upshot? Even in hybrid offices, people feel isolated — and organizations see declines in belonging, culture, and connection.

To counteract this, workplaces must do more than offer desks and meeting rooms. They need to architect social life through intentional workplace design.

What Community-Based Workplace Design Looks Like

Steelcase draws an analogy to urban design: thriving cities are rarely cookie-cutter. They are layered — with dense public zones, quiet tucked pockets, walkable edges, and places for people to linger.

When we transfer that pattern to offices, we want:

  • Diverse zones — a mix of open gathering areas, private nooks, semi-public “streets” or corridors that encourage pause.
  • Connected pathways — spatial clarity that helps people move easily between function and social zones.
  • Places to linger — not all spaces should scream “work mode.” Some should invite slow conversation, coffee, or informal gathering.
  • Flexibility and choice — people should sense control over their environment: acoustics, lighting, privacy, all matter.

One critical insight: acoustics and visual boundaries are not mere afterthoughts. Even small adjustments — plants, mobile partitions, and careful adjacency planning — can sculpt how people perceive and inhabit a space.

Also, “quiet” doesn’t mean “dead.” Ambient sound can be healthy if thoughtfully integrated, creating zones that feel safe but not sterile.

The Role of Social Infrastructure in Workplace Design

One of the more striking parts of Steelcase’s article is their nod to sociologist Eric Klinenberg, who defined social infrastructure as the physical and organizational spaces that facilitate human connection — libraries, parks, community centers.

Klinenberg’s work reminds us that the difference between a neighborhood that thrives and one that struggles often comes down to how social infrastructure is built and maintained. In a similar way, offices need social infrastructure — meeting nooks, pause zones, serendipitous cross-team paths — baked in from the start.

It’s not just about planned collaboration rooms, but about the incidental spaces where water-cooler talk, chance encounters, and spontaneous connection can emerge. That’s where culture is often made.

How Create Spaces Elevates Workplace Design

At Create Spaces, we’re inspired by Steelcase’s data-driven approach — aggregating order data, usage patterns, and environmental signals to spot emerging trends in how people use space.

Here are a few principles we carry into client projects:

  • Begin with people, not programs. Instead of imposing a fixed layout, we start by asking where people naturally congregate, where they hesitate, and what moments currently feel disconnected.
  • Layer social gradients. We build gradations: from quiet zones (focus) to semi-open (pairs, small groups) to social commons (larger gatherings). Each space has a tone, a sense of transition.
  • Design for the edges. Corridors, transition zones, and nooks are often overlooked, but they’re where chance collisions may happen. We treat them as design opportunities.
  • Acoustics with care. We embed absorptive materials, buffer walls, and spatial zoning early in the plan. People’s ability to focus or converse depends on this more than many expect.
  • Feedback loops built in. Long before finalizing, we test temporary layouts, watch movement patterns, and adjust. Sometimes a furniture shift or a path tweak unlocks whole new behavior.
  • Foster ownership. We invite users into the design process — giving teams room to adapt their zones, pick their finish palette, or customize boundary elements.
  • Partner for sustainability. Like Steelcase, we believe the physical artifacts of a workplace should reflect its values. We lean into sustainable materials, circular reuse, transparency in sourcing, and design for longevity.

Final Thoughts

Community-Based Design isn’t a checklist. It’s a mindset shift: moving from designing strictly for function to designing for relationship, surprise, and belonging. Steelcase’s research in Work Better Magazine offers an excellent foundation, and as we at Create Spaces bring that into practice, our aim is to make built environments not just efficient—but alive, connective, and human.

Great workplace design isn’t about where we work — it’s about how we connect once we’re there.

Prefrabricated Walls

From Chaos to Clean: How Falkbuilt Is Changing the Way Interiors Come to Life

Smarter Interiors, Stunning Results: Why Falkbuilt Should Be Part of Your Next Project

Imagine walking into a new office, classroom, or studio where everything feels intentional. The layout flows, the finishes shine, and the prefabricated walls rise in a fraction of the time. There’s no dust, no chaos, and no endless delays. Instead, you experience a perfectly crafted environment that’s ready when you are.

That’s the beauty of Falkbuilt prefabricated walls—they’re built with precision, designed beautifully, and installed in days rather than months. Through Falkbuilt prefabricated interior construction, businesses in Boise, Reno, and Las Vegas are transforming how they build. From glass fronts and pods to millwork and acoustic solutions, every element performs beautifully and evolves with your needs.

With prefabricated walls, you can transform your environment more efficiently, reduce waste, and achieve a higher-quality finish—all while keeping flexibility and design intent intact.

What is Falkbuilt?

Falkbuilt combines digital design with real-world craftsmanship through Digital Component Construction (DCC). In simpler terms, we build your walls, pods, and millwork offsite, ship them flat-packed, and install them quickly and cleanly onsite.

As a result, the process is faster, cleaner, and far more consistent.

  • Faster timelines – Projects finish sooner, with fewer disruptions.
  • Sustainable practices – You’ll use fewer materials, reduce emissions, and cut waste.
  • Acoustic performance – Enjoy the privacy and focus that modern work demands.
  • Technology integration – Power, AV, and data integrate seamlessly into your walls.

Because each component is digitally modeled, fabrication happens with precision. This reduces onsite errors and keeps your project on track from start to finish.

Prefabricated walls

Why You’ll Want Falkbuilt Prefabricated Walls in Your Next Project

Traditional construction can be messy, noisy, and unpredictable. However, with Falkbuilt, you get beautiful, high-performing spaces—without the headaches.

Think about it:

  • In a corporate office, prefabricated walls create private offices, collaboration zones, or open glass meeting spaces.
  • In education, flexible layouts and writable surfaces make classrooms more engaging and adaptable.
  • In hospitality, sleek finishes and custom millwork create a polished, memorable experience.

In every case, Falkbuilt delivers results faster, cleaner, and with greater design flexibility. It’s the smarter way to build today—and the sustainable way to plan for tomorrow.

Prefabricated walls

See the Possibilities

Now, imagine the difference:

  • Glass walls that let in natural light while maintaining privacy.
  • Pods that offer quiet zones for focus and productivity.
  • Millwork and finishes that look fully custom but install in a fraction of the time.
  • Workspaces that evolve effortlessly as your teams grow.

As a result, your space doesn’t just look better—it performs better every day.

Why Create Spaces + Falkbuilt?

At Create Spaces, we believe that the right environment changes how people work, learn, and connect. That’s why our partnership with Falkbuilt matters. Together, we deliver furniture, technology, and prefabricated interiors under one roof, giving you a complete solution from concept to installation.

Additionally, our local teams in Boise, Reno, and Las Vegas ensure that every project receives personal attention, responsive service, and regional expertise. Whether you’re designing a new office or refreshing an existing space, we’ll help you build smarter, faster, and more sustainably.

Prefabricated walls

Ready to Build Smarter?

Your next project deserves more than traditional construction. Discover how Falkbuilt prefabricated walls can help you create flexible, efficient, and future-ready environments.

👉 Explore Falkbuilt with us today: https://createspaces.com/falkbuilt/

Conference Tables

Unlock Your Office’s Potential: Conference Tables and Furniture Planning in Boise, Reno, and Las Vegas

Learn how to assess your office space, choose the right conference tables and furniture, and create a productive, collaborative workspace for your business.

Planning an office renovation or move in Boise, Reno, or Las Vegas? Choosing the right office furniture is critical for productivity and comfort. With options like ergonomic chairs, modular cubicles, conference tables, and private offices, it can be overwhelming. Knowing how to assess your office space and match furniture to your needs ensures your investment pays off. At Create Spaces, we guide businesses to design functional and stylish workspaces.

How to Assess Your Space: Factors to Consider

Start by evaluating your workspace. This helps you maximize functionality and avoid unnecessary purchases.

  • Floor Layout: Measure your office carefully. Note walls, windows, doors, and traffic flow. This ensures furniture fits comfortably.
  • Employee Count & Departments: Identify how many people will use the space. Consider how teams collaborate. Large teams may need open-plan workstations. Smaller teams may prefer private offices.
  • Work Activities: Determine the type of work your employees do daily. Are tasks individual, collaborative, or mixed? Choose furniture that supports workflow.
  • Storage Requirements: Account for filing cabinets, lockers, and shared storage. Organized storage reduces clutter.
  • Technology Integration: Plan for power hubs, cable management, or conference tables with integrated AV and power solutions in meeting rooms and workstations.

Completing this assessment early ensures your furniture supports your business goals.

Conference Tables

Choosing Open-Plan, Private Offices, and Conference Tables

Deciding between open-plan, private office furniture, and conference tables is critical.

  • Open-Plan Furniture: Use modular desks, low cubicles, and collaborative tables. This setup encourages teamwork. It suits creative teams and startups.
  • Private Offices: Enclosed offices and high panels reduce distractions. They help employees focus on tasks. They are ideal for executives, HR, or finance teams.
  • Conference Tables: A well-chosen conference table anchors your meeting space. It supports collaboration and creates a professional impression for clients and staff.
  • Hybrid Approach: Many offices in Boise, Reno, and Las Vegas combine open, private, and conference spaces. Employees can choose their workspace depending on tasks. This flexibility improves productivity and well-being.

Select the balance that aligns with your company culture, space, and workflow.

Conference Tables

Working with a Furniture Expert for Space Planning

Even with careful planning, office design can be complex. Create Spaces provides expert guidance to simplify the process.

  • Customized Solutions: We help businesses in Boise, Reno, and Las Vegas select furniture that fits the space and workflow.
  • 3D Space Planning: Our designers create layouts and 3D renderings. Clients can visualize the office before any purchase.
  • Maximizing Efficiency: We use every square foot effectively. This improves employee comfort and collaboration.
  • Expert Brand Selection: As an authorized Steelcase dealer, we provide ergonomic chairs, modular cubicles, conference tables, and private offices. All products are durable and research-backed.

Partnering with an expert removes guesswork. Your office will look professional and function efficiently.

Conclusion

Determining your office furniture needs doesn’t have to be stressful. Assess your space, evaluate workflow, and work with Create Spaces.

Businesses in Boise, Reno, and Las Vegas benefit from proper office furniture planning. A well-designed office boosts productivity, supports collaboration, and enhances employee well-being.

Contact Create Spaces today to create a workspace tailored to your business, including ergonomic chairs, modular cubicles, and the perfect conference table for your meeting space.

Syringa Property Management

Syringa Property Management

Featured Project

Syringa Property Management

Syringa Property Management

Boise Office Furniture & Workplace Design | Syringa Project

Overview: Boise Office Furniture & Workplace Design | Syringa Project

Boise Office Furniture & Workplace Design | Syringa Project — Create Spaces partnered with Syringa Property Management to deliver a complete office transformation that reflects their collaborative, people-first culture. This Boise office furniture and workplace design project went beyond replacing old desks; it reimagined the space to support employee wellness, team connection, and stunning views of the Boise River and greenbelt.

Rather than a one-for-one furniture swap, we approached this as a complete commercial office furniture redesign—bringing in ergonomic solutions, maximizing natural light, and creating intentional zones for focus, connection, and flexibility.

Project Goals: for a Boise Office Furniture Redesign

Syringa’s leadership team had a clear vision for their new office environment. They wanted a space that would:

  • Reflect their upbeat, community-driven company culture
  • Replace bulky, outdated desks with modern, height-adjustable workstations
  • Improve comfort and ergonomics across all departments
  • Create casual spaces for collaboration, lunch breaks, and impromptu meetings
  • Highlight the scenic Boise River and greenbelt views
  • Make the office’s layout feel seamless, open, and cohesive

Our Solutions: Flexible, Thoughtful Workplace Design

As a Boise-based office furniture dealer, Create Spaces delivered a tailored solution that supports both individual work and team interaction—blending commercial-grade furniture with smart space planning:

  • Private Offices: Upgraded with clean, modern furnishings and a calming, minimalist design to promote focus.
  • Shared Offices: Outfitted with ergonomic chairs and versatile layouts to support both independent work and collaboration.
  • Open Office Area: Installed 13 height-adjustable desks to give employees the freedom to sit or stand throughout the day.
  • Collaboration Zones: Two shared common areas were added for informal meetings, meals, and quick recharges—with direct views of the river and greenbelt.
  • Cohesive Visual Strategy: Every finish, material, and layout choice was aligned with Syringa’s brand identity and workplace culture.

Results: A Flexible, Future-Ready Office

The redesigned space now functions as an extension of Syringa’s values—inviting, adaptable, and supportive of employee wellbeing. Team members enjoy:

  • Improved ergonomics and comfort
  • Greater flexibility in how and where they work
  • Stronger social connection across teams
  • A revitalized environment that inspires productivity

This transformation not only enhances day-to-day operations but also helps Syringa remain competitive in talent attraction and retention—an essential edge in today’s workplace landscape.

Looking to Upgrade Your Office in Boise, Las Vegas or Reno?

Whether you’re a growing company or a well-established organization, Create Spaces provides full-service commercial furniture and workplace design solutions throughout Boise, the Treasure Valley, and beyond. From concept to installation, we help clients like Syringa turn vision into reality—with flexible furniture, expert space planning, and local service you can count on.

St. John Neumann

St. John Neumann Roman Catholic Church

Featured Project

St. John Neumann Roman Catholic Church

St. John Neumann Roman Catholic Church

Overview: Commercial Office Furniture Vegas St. John Neumann

Commercial Office Furniture Vegas St. John Neumann – When St. John Neumann Roman Catholic Church began building its new Parish in Las Vegas, the leadership team partnered with Create Spaces to help bring their vision to life. They needed a space that felt warm, modern, and welcoming—one that reflected their mission to be transformed, generous, and community-focused.

This commercial office furniture and AV design project for a faith-based institution required a careful balance of form and function. From worship areas to classrooms and staff offices, each space was designed to support both spiritual connection and daily operations. As a result, the Parish now offers a flexible and comfortable environment that encourages reflection, learning, and belonging.

Project Goals: Modern Church Furniture & Collaborative Spaces

To support St. John Neumann’s goals, Create Spaces focused on three main priorities:

  • Designing clean, open workspaces that promote connection and productivity among staff and volunteers
  • Creating a memorable, comfortable experience for both long-time parishioners and new visitors
  • Enhancing teaching and learning environments for ministry leaders, educators, and students

In addition to those goals, the Parish needed furniture that could adapt over time and support multiple uses across ministries.

Solutions and Highlights: Commercial Furniture and AV Design for Churches

To bring the vision to life, Create Spaces provided a comprehensive commercial furniture and audiovisual solution tailored to the needs of a growing faith-based organization in Las Vegas.

  • Music Rooms now feature acoustic-friendly furniture that encourages creativity while providing comfort for rehearsals and instruction.
  • Private Offices for church staff and clergy were designed with intention—especially the parish leader’s office, which blends elegance with practicality.
  • Flexible Meeting Rooms are equipped with modular furniture, making it easy to host small group gatherings, staff planning sessions, and ministry events.
  • Conference Rooms include integrated AV technology, allowing for seamless presentations, meetings, and remote collaboration when needed.

Each space was designed with the church’s mission in mind, ensuring that functionality, comfort, and aesthetics work in harmony.

Results: A Parish Built for Connection, Comfort & Growth

Although the Parish hasn’t officially opened its doors yet, leadership and members have already expressed their excitement and appreciation. The new space doesn’t just look beautiful—it works. As a result, church leaders now have a space that supports their mission while serving the needs of their community.

Following the success of this project, Create Spaces is continuing its partnership with St. John Neumann. Upcoming phases include renovations to the original church building and expanded seating throughout the new facility. Meanwhile, the completed areas already reflect the power of thoughtful design in supporting spiritual growth.

Serving Faith-Based and Educational Institutions in Las Vegas, Reno & Boise

Create Spaces delivers commercial furniture and workplace design solutions for churches, schools, nonprofits, and businesses across Las Vegas, Reno, and Boise. Whether you’re building a new campus or upgrading an existing facility, our team provides full-service support—from furniture selection to technology integration and installation.

Boise Co-Op

Boise Co-Op

Featured Project

Boise Co-Op

Boise Co-Op Project

Boise Co-Op

Overview: Office Desks for Boise Co-Op | Corporate Office Design in Meridian, Idaho

Office Desks for Boise Co-Op | Corporate Office Design in Meridian, Idaho – The Boise Co-Op partnered with Create Spaces to design and furnish its new corporate office in Meridian, Idaho. The goal was clear: create a functional, collaborative environment that reflects the Co-Op’s values—community, sustainability, and flexibility—while staying within a realistic budget.

To achieve this, we delivered a custom furniture plan centered around office desks for Boise Co-Op staff, creating flexible work zones that support focus, movement, and team connection. The final workspace strikes a balance between modern professionalism and the warm, inviting feel the Co-Op is known for.

Employees now have the freedom to move between individual desks, casual lounges, and team spaces—choosing the setup that best suits their tasks throughout the day.

Project Goals

To support the Boise Co-Op’s evolving workplace vision, the Create Spaces team focused on:

  • Designing a flexible open-office layout with defined team and focus zones
  • Selecting commercial office desks that support both heads-down work and collaboration
  • Integrating neutral, earthy finishes with pops of color to reflect the Co-Op’s branding
  • Providing enclosed meeting rooms for privacy and partner discussions
  • Bringing all departments together to foster better communication and team culture

Solutions and Highlights: Office Desks and Furniture That Work

To bring this vision to life, Create Spaces delivered a full suite of commercial office furniture, carefully chosen to support productivity and flexibility:

  • Private Offices were outfitted with ergonomic office desks, storage, and seating to reflect individual roles and working styles
  • Open Office Workstations featured benching-style desks designed to encourage collaboration, transparency, and wellness
  • Conference and Collaboration Rooms included flexible tables and AV integration to support both scheduled meetings and spontaneous teamwork
  • Ancillary Seating Zones provided casual meeting spaces with lounge-style chairs and movable surfaces—ideal for quick check-ins and creative work

Every piece of furniture, especially the office desks for Boise Co-Op, was chosen to align with their mission and enhance daily operations without sacrificing comfort or aesthetics.

Results: A Connected, Future-Ready Workplace

The new corporate office offers far more than just a collection of desks—it delivers a dynamic environment where employees feel empowered, focused, and engaged. With all departments now under one roof, Boise Co-Op enjoys improved internal communication and stronger team cohesion.

As a result of this successful partnership, Create Spaces is proud to continue supporting the Co-Op as they grow, evolve, and pursue future projects across the Treasure Valley.

Need Office Desks in Boise, Las Vegas or Reno?

Create Spaces delivers commercial furniture and workplace design solutions for churches, schools, nonprofits, and businesses across Las Vegas, Reno, and Boise. Whether you’re building a new campus or upgrading an existing facility, our team provides full-service support—from furniture selection to technology integration and installation.