As companies implement return-to-office mandates or hybrid work policies, global design and engineering firm Gensler is challenging the industry to elevate amenities and increase workplace appeal. Gensler’s Chicago co-managing director Todd Heiser and principal/project director Eric Gannon emphasize the need for curated amenities that expand employees’ view of the workplace.
Drawing from a consumerist mindset, Heiser and Gannon suggest that delivering dynamic, layered environments is crucial. Typical offices often lack experience-driven design, but examples like FCA’s flexible and inspiring workspace demonstrate the potential for improvement. By incorporating configurable elements, restorative spaces, and social interaction areas, offices can provide a more engaging and supportive environment for employees.
Authenticity is also essential in redefining office amenities. Differentiation and incorporation of company values are crucial in establishing a visual connection between the company’s culture and employee experience. For instance, Dyer Brown’s design for NOBLE, a military and government agency supplier, successfully achieved this by creating a sophisticated yet welcoming environment that reflects the company’s values.
Furthermore, Gensler recommends adding thoughtful access to outdoor spaces to promote biophilic design, which provides numerous benefits to mental and physical well-being. By developing outdoor spaces adjacent to the office, employees can enjoy a “meditative escape” and reap the positive effects of fresh air, outdoor scenery, and exposure to daylight on cardiac health and stress hormone levels.
Image courtesy: iands.design
