The sense of camaraderie fostered by social interaction has been found to boost performance in a vast majority of workplaces. Studies indicate that there are two main reasons why this is so. First, it narrows the gap between more and less sociable workers. Secondly, it helps reduce bottlenecks and improve the workflow. In many teams, a willingness to boost social interaction is there, but one thing is missing: optimal office design. Even in the most sociable office, workers also need spaces where they can work alone on tasks requiring optimal concentration, and de-stress by having occasional time alone. The good news is that many offices have managed to engage their teams by investing in the right layout and design features.
Providing a Home Away from Home
Employees spend numerous hours away from home, yet most would probably enjoy having the comforts of home when they are at their offices. As such, companies such as Microsoft are aiming to boost productivity by providing workers with many zones that allow team members to interact as though they were in a social gathering at home. Microsoft’s Amsterdam office, for instance, has an ample social space that encourages interaction between team members and visitors. It includes a coffee shop, cozy meeting areas, and sleep pods for employees requiring a power nap. Coffee zones are also peppered throughout the building, so team members can escape for a quick brainstorming session or enjoy a chat between work tasks.
Creating Sensorial Havens
Savvy offices are embracing the sensory design trend, which is focused on designing spaces that engage the full range of human experiences. Engaging employees’ senses of sight, sound, smell, touch, and taste can impact their thoughts, emotions, and overall well-being. The benefits of sensory design include increased concentration, better social interaction, greater relaxation, and enhanced exploration and creativity. As such, smart offices have breakout zones that are filled with elements that delight the senses—from soft customized sofas that can accommodate numerous people to pod-like seating that enables employees to rest in relative darkness, essential oil diffusers, and classical music. This trend also involves creating private spaces via soft furniture that rises above eye level and gently curves around dwellers, thus boosting privacy for those who need a break from the crowd.
Green Oases
The biophilic trend is one of the most important in the recent decade, with many stylish offices across the globe embracing this style both in recreational and transit areas. The fairlife Offices in Chicago, Illinois provide a perfect example of how restorative green breakout spaces can be. This company has common areas with plush leather chairs, coffee tables, and stunning natural wood features on the floor and ceiling. It also has living walls, which lend the effect of being in a botanical garden. Study after study has shown that greenery boosts workers’ productivity, improves focus and mood, and promotes greater relaxation. Including natural elements in a breakout space is a cost-effective way to benefit employees and companies. This design style also embraces natural light, nature-inspired shapes, sustainable materials, and design features that invite exploration.
Making It About Fun
All adults are kids at heart, and that explains why so many enjoy gaming, board games, table tennis, and other games as a means of letting off steam. Video tech company Pexip has brought entertainment to the fore in its breakout spaces, enticing employees with pool tables, darts boards, table tennis, and more ideas for distraction. This area connects to an outdoor decking area with barbecue facilities, which is perfect for getting a bit of fresh air or holding company events.
Smart companies are going the extra mile to create social spots for employees to connect and relax. Just a few trends holding sway include relaxation, sensorial, and green breakout rooms. Games are also a wonderful way to entice employees to gather for the kind of distraction that can make them feel restored and ready to give their all once they get back to work.
