A Case for the Hybrid Working Model
I was convinced I’d never go back to working in an office again. My home studio was set up exactly how I liked it, designed around my personal routines and creative flow. I was a work from home girly and proud of it. But earlier this month, New Friend kicked off an exciting new contract with Argo Design, and with it came the option for a hybrid working model.
Twice a week, I swap sweatpants for real clothes, leave the comfort of my home, and commute to Argo’s South Congress studio in Austin. The biggest surprise? I actually like it.
This shift made me realize that where you work isn’t just about getting things done. It’s about sparking new ideas, shifting your mindset, and finding that creative boost that comes from being around real people instead of just your plants or your dog.
What a Hybrid Working Model Really Means
A hybrid working model isn’t just a split between remote days and office days, it’s about balance. Some days, I need uninterrupted time to dive deep into design work. Other days, I thrive on the spontaneous collaboration that only happens when you’re physically present with a team. It’s the back-and-forth between these two environments that fuels creativity and keeps things from going stale.
This rhythm of remote focus and in-person collaboration has become essential to my process. It offers variety, keeps my energy fresh, and prevents the creative rut that sneaks in when every day feels the same.
Why Creative Work Needs New Spaces
Before joining Argo, I didn’t realize how much I had been craving a shift in environment. Working independently is great for autonomy, but too much of it can lead to creative stagnation. Here’s why changing spaces matters:
Fresh Energy: Being around other designers changes the flow of ideas. A passing comment, a spontaneous brainstorm, or simply seeing someone else’s work-in-progress can spark unexpected inspiration.
Clearer Focus: A new space can help clear mental clutter and make it easier to dive deep into the task at hand.
The Best of Both Worlds: Moving between solo work and collaborative energy creates a balance that keeps creativity sharp without sacrificing independence.
The Argo Studio: Where Collaboration Happens
Two days a week, I head into Argo’s South Congress studio, and the shift is immediate. The space itself is bright, open, and thoughtfully designed. But it’s not just the physical space that makes a difference; it’s the people. Conversations flow naturally, feedback happens in real-time, and working alongside other talented creatives pushes me to think deeper.
When I return to my home studio, I carry that momentum with me. The ideas sparked in the studio often come to life during my remote working days, creating a flow that feels both sustainable and creatively fulfilling.
Finding Your Own Creative Shift
You don’t need to be contracted by a design studio to experience the benefits of a hybrid model. Here are a few ways to shake up your routine:
Co-working Spaces: A flexible option for connecting with other professionals without the structure of a full-time office.
Coffee Shops or Libraries: A simple change of scenery can refresh your focus and boost productivity.
Creative Meetups or Workshops: Surrounding yourself with people who share your passion can provide new perspectives and inspiration.
Creativity Needs Movement
Contracting with Argo has reminded me that creativity doesn’t happen in a vacuum. It grows in environments that foster connection, collaboration, and fresh thinking. A hybrid working model, or even just switching up your usual workspace, can breathe new life into your process.
