Job seekers appreciate choices and want options as to how and where they can work. According to Gensler, a global architecture and design firm, companies that offer a variety of settings are viewed as more innovative and creative. And, providing choice and flexibility conveys a sense of autonomy for employees, an attribute which contributes to trust and employee engagement.


Offering choice and variety means providing a balance of spaces to formally and informally collaborate as well as quiet areas for independent thinking and reflection. Providing collaborative spaces sends the message that an organization values teamwork, social connections and the sharing of information while allocating sufficient quiet zones communicates support for focus and the fundamental need for privacy. And, for companies that do encourage choice of where to work, make sure to address personal storage needs whether that’s with centralized storage lockers or mobile storage solutions. This shows you understand people’s need for security.

Workplace ergonomics used to be primarily addressed by providing employees with adjustable task chairs. While that’s still as critical as ever, enhancing worker performance and health these days also means offering sit-to-stand furniture options and different settings to encourage postural variety and movement. Consideration should be given to task lighting and adjustable monitor arms to prevent eye strain and headaches. Workplace design also can address sedentary behavior through the thoughtful placement of shared amenities, such as hospitality stations, which can entice employees to get up and move around.

There is substantial research which suggests that human beings benefit from exposure to nature and daylight. A 2018 study published in the Harvard Business Review found that access to natural light and outdoor views was the most desired workplace environment perk, outranking other on-site amenities such as cafeterias or fitness centers. Implementing design strategies that better connect your employees to natural light and natural elements such as plants and waterfeatures can have a significant effect on health and productivity in the workplace and communicates a commitment to their wellbeing.

Integrated community spaces, such as cafés and lounges, provide places to unwind, informally socialize and casually collaborate with others. You can further communicate a culture of transparency and interconnectedness by encouraging leadership to visit the spaces as well. When employees feel more connected to each other, they also feel more connected to their work and to the mission of the organization. By including “resimercial” touches— think sofas, lounge chairs, and ottomans—community spaces can feel more relaxed and like home, which not only makes employees more comfortable but also attracts talent who’ve become used to working from home or in co-working spaces.