The first workaround is an extension cord sitting on top of a table. This table is used as a place where people can place food that is intended to be shared with the whole office. At times a crockpot or coffee maker is on this table so the extension cord was put on top of the table so that the short cords of a crockpot or coffee maker could easily be plugged in.
The second workaround is ziplock bags being used as a way to store small papers. Larger folders would not be ideal to store small sheets of paper in so the ziplock bags provide a much better way to store the papers.
The final workaround is books being used to support the middle of a couch. The couch sinks badly in the middle so it needed some extra support so that it would still be usable. These books are strong enough that they can support the couch and make the middle of the couch the right height to be used.