Confair Next is a modular ‘toolbox’ that is designed to make agile and hybrid collaboration in the workplace a universal reality.
The debut of Wilkhahn’s new and innovative Confair Next furnishing system last month at Orgatec is a culmination of the manufacturer’s more than three decades of research, development and international pilot projects. Designed as a response to the ever-evolving work landscape, the toolbox upends workplace design conventions and enables agile, collaborative and futureproof office environments.
Designed for seamless hybrid and agile collaboration, Confair Next blends analogue and digital media for both in-person and remote participants.
The kit of parts comprises a complete system to give users open-ended options, that answers to the ways working modalities have drastically changed – and will continue to change into the future. As hybrid working matures, organizations are facing the challenges associated with it. Along with concurrent the realities of competitive talent pools and difficulties of employee retention, organizations are leaning into design to underscore the environments that support employees and organizational objectives. Based on Wilkhahn's research and development-forward design and manufacturing process, Confair Next is designed to answer to the increasing phygitalization of the work environment.
The mobile modules of the flexible system suit various settings, from informal lounges to executive offices.
Each part – and their collective sum – is designed to put participants who are present and those who are connected virtually on equal footing, ensuring relevance throughout the entire workplace. Modules such as pinboards, whiteboards, mobile stools, trolleys and a media wall combining interactive screens with ultra-light writable boards support the furnishing of communication and collaboration areas, from informal lounge areas and management floors to learning and workshop rooms.
The modules can be freely combined to accommodate different organizational needs. The Media Wall, performs several concurrent functions serving as interactive screens with writable boards, while writable Liteboards and Transport Trolleys can be flexibly outfitted to connect with digital and analogue media. Flexible pieces such as Server, a wireless supplier of power, standing-height Board Tables and Rolling stools, further underscore how the integrative, flexible and futureproof system boosts collaboration and communication.
The range features whiteboards, media walls, display racks, modular storage and more, with customizable surfaces and finishes to match corporate designs.
A wide range of design options ensures the toolbox upholds various corporate design standards while also being broadly scalable, mobile, durable and adaptable to rapid changes in technology. Wilkhahn’s design approach was deliberately completed in tune with the ever-changing landscape of the workplace.
Confair Next embodies the necessary, adaptable qualities that give the workplace the ability to simultaneously change with long-term organizational needs and accommodate the day-to-day preferences of employees who use them, making it a key asset for designers to imagine workspaces that are purposeful, intuitive and agile.
