Technology has freed people from their desks. We can now work anywhere, anytime. This has created a movement that Workplace Insight refers to as employees “shopping” for the spaces that best support their work.
Coalesse has been at the forefront of this movement by identifying the need to bring the “third place” into the workplace. Spaces with a residential sensibility and a hospitality vibe are desirable for social connection, creative collaboration and focus and rejuvenation. These three central work modes are crucial to the wellbeing and productivity of workers today.
Companies that design spaces to support these work modes will attract and retain talent. In this month’s news aggregate, we explore the importance of one factor that is becoming increasingly important for the modern workplace: a variety and choice of spaces.
An Architects’ Journal Q&A with top designers and industry experts highlights the need for organizations to incorporate a range of settings to foster a sense of community and help people enjoy working. Work Design Magazine also delves into the importance of choice and variety, observing how diverse workspaces can improve worker happiness, efficiency and productivity.
Meanwhile, in a discussion on how the hospitality industry is influencing the workplace, On Office Magazine notes that new office buildings are becoming more than just a place of work – with a suite of amenities (gyms, eateries and more) that cater to both the professional and personal lives of employees. Bisnow echoes this sentiment, suggesting that for millennial workers, having facilities that support recreational activities, as well relaxation areas, is key.
Inc. discusses the need for “recharge rooms” where staff can unwind, stretch, sleep, meditate and let the brain reset so that they can “tackle even the toughest projects with renewed energy.” Similarly, JLL Real Views comments on the shift toward companies acknowledging mindfulness and mental health by offering dynamic work environments and including meditation rooms and sleep pods.
Employers that offer a variety of settings – social and community-oriented spaces, along with spots for rest, relaxation and concentration – allow people to find the place that best suits their needs.
An article in Entrepreneur emphasizes that along with offering employees the opportunity to take ownership of the workday, organizations should trust staff to spend time at work effectively. The article also references research indicating that building trust is a significant way for companies to increase employee engagement.
So how can employers establish a culture of trust? Entrepreneur mentions providing a range of working environments as one key strategy – trusting people to work flexibly and efficiently and empowering staff with greater choice in their overall work experience. Forbes proposes allowing flexible working, which enables employees to work in ways that best serve their personal preferences.
To learn more about the flexibility and variety in the office, read our blogs here and here.
