In the world of work, visionary companies are realising the profound impact of well designed offices on employee happiness, productivity and mental health. Gone are the days of sterile cubicles; these companies are embracing new designs to create work environments that put employee wellness first. In this post we look at the success stories of companies that have set the benchmark for office design, and a holistic approach to growth and development.

Employee Happiness and Well-being

Employee happiness and well-being are the foundation of a thriving business. Happy and fulfilled employees are more engaged, motivated and committed to their work. This state of mind translates into higher job satisfaction, lower turnover rates and increased productivity. Happy employees also provide better customer service which in turn leads to higher customer satisfaction and loyalty. So it’s imperative for organisations to put employee happiness and well-being first by creating a positive and supportive work environment. By doing so companies not only benefit their employees but themselves.

Work-Life Balance

Supporting balance in your work-life is key to employee happiness and well-being. When employees have greater work-life balance they are more productive, motivated and engaged in their role. Organizations can support this by offering flexible working, telecommuting or flexible hours and encouraging employees to take regular breaks and use their paid time off. Providing resources like employee assistance programs (EAPs) and health promotion programs can help employees manage their work and personal responsibilities more effectively. By putting work-life balance first organizations can boost employee happiness and well-being and increased productivity and job satisfaction. Create a positive organizational culture where employee's feel valued, respected and empowered.

Google: A Playground of Creativity:

Google is famous for its offices that feel more like playgrounds than workplaces. With bright colours, flexible spaces and whimsical themed rooms Google’s offices are designed to stimulate creativity and innovation. From relaxation pods to on-site gyms Google takes a holistic approach, knowing a happy and healthy employee is a more productive one. Google’s office designs also play a big part in employee engagement leading to higher levels of creativity and productivity.

Salesforce: Balancing Work and Wellness Programs:

Salesforce are committed to employee wellness with their HQ designed to balance work and wellness. The Ohana Floor, a space for employees, has meditation rooms, health clinics and a fully stocked kitchen to encourage healthy eating. Salesforce knows a healthy mind makes for a productive workforce.

Airbnb: Workspaces as Unique as Its Listings:

Airbnb’s offices are a reflection of the company’s philosophy of unique and personal experiences. Their workspaces around the world are designed to resemble local Airbnb listings, making employees feel at home. By embracing diversity in design Airbnb recognizes the importance of individual preferences and workstyles in happiness and productivity. By doing so Airbnb ensures the diverse needs of its employees are met, creating a supportive work environment.

Microsoft: A Nature-Inspired Oasis:

Microsoft’s Redmond, Washington HQ is nature inspired. Surrounded by greenery and with outdoor spaces, walking trails and even treehouse meeting rooms Microsoft’s offices are a refreshing change from corporate environments. Nature inspired design has been shown to reduce stress and increase creativity contributing to a positive work atmosphere. Nature inspired design also reduces stress and promotes physical health contributing to a holistic approach to staff well-being.

Zappos: Embracing Quirkiness and Employee Engagement:

Zappos, the online retailer known for its funny company culture, has offices that mirror its quirky brand. Bright colours, themed meeting rooms and employee autonomy contribute to a workplace where individuality is celebrated. Zappos knows a happy employee is a motivated and engaged one. Zappos’ office design is a reflection of its company culture which values individuality and employee happiness.

Etsy: Sustainable and Community-Centric:

Etsy’s Brooklyn, New York HQ is a testament to its commitment to sustainability and community. The office uses eco-friendly materials and design to create a space that reflects Etsy’s values. By putting sustainable practices and community centric design first Etsy creates a positive work environment that resonates with its employees. Etsy’s approach to office design supports the whole person, acknowledging the diverse needs of its employees.

Mental Health

Mental health is key to staff wellness and high productivity. Mental health impacts an employee’s ability to work, interact with colleagues and deliver great customer service. Organizations can prioritize mental health by offering access to mental health resources such as EAPs and mental health days and by promoting a culture of openness and support. Training and education on mental health awareness and reducing the stigma around mental health issues are also important steps. As a company you need to provide employees with all types of options so they can have a decision making process in place and figure out what options works for them.

Conclusion:

As these companies show, a well designed office is more than a physical space; it’s an investment in employee happiness, productivity and mental health. From Google’s playrooms to Salesforce’s work-life balance, these companies know that prioritizing employee health through office design leads to overall well-being and productivity. By rethinking traditional office spaces they are setting new standards for workplaces that put the holistic growth and happiness of their most important asset – their people.

Elevate your workplace and employee wellness with Simplova, a forward thinking company based in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Simplova specializes in modern and ergonomic office furniture that aligns with the values of companies that prioritize staff happiness and productivity. Whether you’re looking for vibrant and collaborative workspaces inspired by tech giants or nature inspired designs reminiscent of industry leaders Simplova has a diverse range of furniture solutions. By incorporating Simplova’s modern and ergonomic designs your business can create a workspace that mirrors the values of employee’s wellness and a positive inspiring environment. Let Simplova be your partner in transforming your office into a space that reflects the progressive values of workplace design today.