Open-plan vs zoned offices: which layout works best?
When designing a new office fit-out, one of the first big decisions is layout. Should you go with an open-plan workspace that encourages collaboration, or a more zoned approach that offers structure and focus?
At Elevate Creative & Design, we work with Perth businesses to plan commercial fit-outs that suit how their teams actually work - not just what looks good on paper. Here’s our take on open-plan vs zoned office layouts - and how to find the right fit for your space.
The open-plan office
Popular for over a decade now, open-plan layouts feature large, shared workspaces with little to no partitioning. They're known for encouraging collaboration, maximising space, and creating a more social feel.
Pros:
Fosters communication and teamwork
Makes the most of natural light and airflow
Often more cost-effective to build and fit out
Cons:
Can be noisy and distracting for focused work
May reduce privacy and personal space
Harder to accommodate different working styles
Open-plan offices work well for creative teams, startups, and businesses that thrive on energy and interaction—but they do need smart design to avoid becoming chaotic.
The zoned office layout
A zoned office creates defined spaces for different functions—like quiet areas for deep work, breakout zones for collaboration, and lounges for informal meetings. These can be created with layout, furniture, lighting, or soft partitions.
Pros:
Supports a range of work styles and tasks
Easier to manage noise and focus
Creates structure without full enclosures
Cons:
May require more space and planning
Can reduce spontaneous collaboration if not well connected
Needs balance to avoid feeling fragmented
Zoned offices are ideal for teams who need both collaboration and concentration - and want a more intentional approach to space.
So, which one works best?
Often, it’s a blend of both. Hybrid layouts that combine open areas with smaller zones offer the best of both worlds. It’s about finding what suits your team, your culture, and the way you work.
That’s where thoughtful design makes all the difference. We work closely with our clients to plan workspace layouts that feel cohesive, functional and future-ready - whether that’s open, zoned, or something in between.