{"id":9071,"date":"2025-06-28T06:00:00","date_gmt":"2025-06-28T06:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/co-office.nu\/?p=9071"},"modified":"2026-02-04T10:51:32","modified_gmt":"2026-02-04T10:51:32","slug":"hoe-noem-je-een-open-kantoorruimte","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/co-office.nu\/en\/news\/hoe-noem-je-een-open-kantoorruimte\/","title":{"rendered":"What do you call an open office space?"},"content":{"rendered":"

An open office space is often called an office landscape<\/strong>, flex workspace or shared workspace. This modern work environment is characterized by the absence of fixed walls between workstations, allowing employees to move and collaborate freely. Other popular designations include coworking space, activity-based working and collaborative workspace, with the choice depending on the specific concept and target audience.<\/p>\n

What exactly do we mean by an open office space?<\/h2>\n

An open office space is a workplace concept without fixed walls or partitions between individual workstations. Instead of traditional offices with closed doors, you find a large, open space where employees work together. This concept offers maximum flexibility<\/strong> in the use of available space and encourages natural interaction among colleagues.<\/p>\n

The main characteristics of an open office space are the sharing of workstations, the lack of physical barriers and the ability to create different work zones within one space. You often see a mix of desks, sitting areas, standing areas and informal meeting spaces. This layout fits perfectly with modern ways of working where collaboration and communication are key.<\/p>\n

More and more companies are choosing this modern workplace design because it is cost-effective and reinforces the corporate culture. It promotes knowledge sharing, shortens communication lines and creates a dynamic work environment. Especially for companies that want to grow or remain flexible in their accommodation, an open office space offers many advantages.<\/p>\n

What Dutch terms do we use for open office spaces?<\/h2>\n

In the Netherlands, we use different terms for open office spaces, with office landscape<\/strong> is the most traditional term. This term comes from the 1970s and describes a large open space with multiple workstations. Nowadays, you also often hear flexible workstation, indicating that employees do not have a fixed spot but can choose where they work on a daily basis.<\/p>\n

Activity-based working is a more modern term that emphasizes choosing different places for different tasks. In this concept, for example, you work concentrated in a silence zone, brainstorm in a creative space and make phone calls in a call box. The term shared workspace is mainly used when several companies or self-employed people share the same space.<\/p>\n

The choice of term depends on the specific concept and your target audience. For a traditional company switching to open work, office landscape is often recognizable. Start-ups and creative companies are more likely to choose terms like flex workspace or collaborative space. The important thing is that the chosen term fits your corporate culture and makes it clear what employees can expect.<\/p>\n

What is the difference between a coworking space and an open office?<\/h2>\n

The main difference between a coworking space and an open office is who works there. In a coworking space<\/strong> professionals from different companies come together, whereas an open office is usually used by a single organization. In coworking, you as an entrepreneur rent a workspace among other entrepreneurs, which provides networking opportunities and cross-pollination.<\/p>\n

A traditional open office within one organization focuses on collaboration between colleagues from the same company. Here you share space with people working on the same business goals. The layout and facilities are tailored to the specific needs of that one company, from the ICT infrastructure to the coffee supply.<\/p>\n

Both concepts have their own advantages. Coworking spaces offer flexibility, networking opportunities and often inclusive services such as reception and meeting rooms. Open offices within a single company provide better team cohesion and make it easier to share company-sensitive information. For those looking for the perfect business space<\/a>, it is important to first determine which concept best suits your working methods and growth ambitions.<\/p>\n

What do you call the different zones in an open office space?<\/h2>\n

In a well-designed open office, you will find different zones, each with its own function. Stilter spaces<\/strong> or focus areas are specially set up for concentrated work without distractions. You can often recognize these zones by acoustic panels, enclosed workstations or special phone booths where you can make undisturbed phone calls or video conferencing.<\/p>\n

Brainstorming zones and creative spaces are designed precisely to encourage collaboration. Here you will find whiteboards, comfortable seating areas and flexible furniture that can be moved around as needed. Meeting areas such as the coffee corner or lounge area provide informal interaction between colleagues. These places are important for team building and spontaneous idea exchange.<\/p>\n

Modern offices also have hybrid zones such as the library for quiet work with access to information, project spaces for teamwork and presentation zones for knowledge sharing. By cleverly combining these different zones, you create a work environment that supports both productivity and employee well-being. Success lies in the balance between open collaboration and the ability to retreat for focused work.<\/p>\n

What English terms do you encounter for open office spaces?<\/h2>\n

In the Dutch office sector, you frequently encounter English terms. Open office<\/strong> is the direct translation of open office, while shared workspace refers to a shared workspace. Hot desking describes the system where employees do not have a fixed workspace but choose an available spot each day, similar to our flexi-working.<\/p>\n

Activity-based working (ABW) is the English term for activity-based working, where you choose the most appropriate workspace for each task. Flexible office is a broader term that can mean both flexible workplaces and flexible leases. You often use this term in international contexts or when communicating with foreign partners.<\/p>\n

These English terms are mainly used in the Netherlands in international companies, the tech sector and in modern office concepts. They often give an innovative and international feel. Still, it is important to keep your target audience in mind. For Dutch SMEs, Dutch terms are often clearer and more accessible.<\/p>\n

What are modern alternatives to the term \"office landscape\"?<\/h2>\n

The term office landscape sounds old-fashioned to many people and conjures up images of boring, large office floors. Modern alternatives such as hybrid workplace<\/strong> emphasize that employees can work both in the office and from home. This term fits perfectly with today's times when flexibility in work location has become normal.<\/p>\n

Agile workspace and smart office are terms that emphasize technology and adaptability. An agile workspace adapts to different work styles and projects, while a smart office uses technology to optimize the work experience. Think workplace reservation apps, smart climate control and digital collaboration tools.<\/p>\n

Collaborative workspace is a hot term that puts collaboration at its core. This term works well for companies that want to exude teamwork and innovation. The popularity of these modern terms is growing because they better reflect new work concepts and the expectations of young professionals. They convey a more positive image than the traditional office landscape.<\/p>\n

How do you choose the right name for your workplace concept?<\/h2>\n

Choosing the right designation starts with your target<\/strong>. For a law firm that is modernizing, \"modern workplace environment\" works better than \"agile workspace. Start-ups and creative agencies can get by with trendy English terms. Test different terms with your employees or clients to see what resonates best.<\/p>\n

Your company culture also plays an important role. An informal company may choose \"our workplace\" or \"the hub,\" while a more formal company may be more suited to \"flexible office\" or \"modern work environment. The chosen term should feel authentic and fit how you work and communicate.<\/p>\n

Consistency in communications is important for clarity. Use the chosen designation consistently in all communications: from job postings to the website and from internal memos to customer communications. If necessary, create a short explanation or definition that everyone can use. This way you avoid confusion and create a clear image of your workplace concept.<\/p>\n

Finding the perfect workspace at Co-Office<\/h2>\n

We have seen that there are many terms for open office spaces, from the classic office landscape to modern concepts such as collaborative workspaces and flexible offices. The right term depends on your corporate culture, target audience and the specifics of your workplace concept. Whether you choose a Dutch or English term, the most important thing is that it fits your organization and clearly communicates what employees can expect.<\/p>\n

At Co-Office, we understand that each company is unique and has its own approach to work. That's why we offer a variety of workplace solutions to suit your specific needs. From an inspiring coworking space where you meet other entrepreneurs to a private open office space for your growing team, we're happy to help you find the best fit.<\/p>\n

Are you curious which workplace concept best suits your company? We are happy to personally guide you in finding the ideal solution. Whether you are looking for a flexible workplace, want to rent an office space in Amsterdam or just want to know more about the possibilities, please feel free to contact us. contact<\/a> with us. Together we will discover how to transform your work experience with the perfect workplace environment.<\/p>\n

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