Open offices have become popular in many areas, and although they can be great for teamwork and collaboration, they can also be overwhelming and mentally draining for people who identify as introverts. If you want to bring out the best in your employees, you need office space that appeals to both the collaborators and the introverts who need time alone to recharge. Here are surprising ideas to consider:

1. Create pockets of privacy

Building a separate office area for each person you employee can be logistically and financially impossible, and it isn't necessarily the right approach -- the enforced isolation may be just as difficult for extroverts as the forced togetherness can be for introverts.

Instead, keep your open office plan, but also invest in a few office fitouts that create quiet spaces for introverts. Throughout the day, as needed, introverts and others can access these pockets of privacy to think, recharge or work.

These areas should be furnished and designed to accommodate a single person working quietly or a small team of two collaborating together. This approach also leaves conference rooms open for larger collaborations or meetings.

2. Use books to create a relaxing atmosphere

When choosing furniture or office fitouts for your private areas, look for comforting, inviting furniture pieces. If possible, invest in bookcases or wall paper designs that evoke the feelings of bookcases -- the first friends of most introverts, books or the illusion of them can help to relax people who crave privacy and feel overwhelmed in a busy and loud office.

3. Don't overlook the power of naps

Whether you are trying to soothe introverts or motivate your whole team, do not overlook the power of naps. Small naps throughout the day can energise your employees, boost their focus and heighten their creativity.

Keep these facts in mind when choosing your office fitouts, and consider investing in a few pieces that allow your staff to slip away for a nap. Day beds, stylish futons or recliners are ideal for this purpose, and if you locate these pieces in the pockets of privacy throughout your office, napping becomes easy.

4. Embrace technology when extra space is not available

If you cannot afford to add office fitouts that make your office more appealing to introverts, consider using technology to create privacy. For example, allow workers to wear headphones so that they can drown out the sound of the other people in the office. For some people, these extra allowances can help to make their days bearable.

Contact a company such as Integrity Lounge Designs to learn more.