ATLANTA—There's plenty of talk about alternative office space, but you don't need to go “coworking” or even transition into shared office space to drive more productivity. Indeed, workplace design is evolving based on the individual needs of each company.

GlobeSt.com caught up with Kevin Cantley, president and CEO of Cooper Carry, to get his thoughts on the latest trends in workplace design in part one of this exclusive interview. You can still read part one: Design Firms Set for Big Growth in '15.

GlobeSt.com: What are the top trends affecting workplace design? 

Cantley: Corporations like State Farm and Intergraph are using their office space more efficiently, with an increase in open, collaborative space and access to technology from anywhere in the office. However, most businesses still require private rooms to conduct business when warranted. We have also seen an increase in the use of glass and other hard surfaces on which to express ideas and share information.

GlobeSt.com: How does productivity fit into office design considerations?

Cantley: Many companies are embracing a more holistic workplace strategy that considers many factors that affect the productivity of employees. It's no longer just about how to fit furniture or select the appropriate colors. While providing workplace strategy services for Intergraph's new headquarters, we conducted focus groups to better understand what the 1,100 employees wanted and needed from their new office.

We learned that they wanted to be connected to nature, so we designed the facility with large floor-to-ceiling windows for lake views and to allow for abundant natural light. In fact, some of our clients are using our services to assist in making workflow changes within their company.

GlobeSt.com: How much growth has Cooper Carry seen in the corporate sector this year? 

Cantley: The office market is experiencing growth in key markets with companies growing and expanding as the economy continues to improve. Cooper Carry was recently awarded seven new office projects.

Texas-based developer KDC selected Cooper Carry to design a new office and mixed-use complex in Atlanta that will be anchored by State Farm. The project is one of the largest projects of its kind in the city. In October, Intergraph, a high-tech company, opened its new $58 million headquarters in Huntsville, AL. Cooper Carry provided complete, comprehensive design services for the entire project.