Offices are meant to be a place of productivity. Times have changed, however, and the use of rigid cubicles and harsh lighting is no longer the norm. Managers have started to realize that they can improve productivity by providing employees with a relaxed work environment that is designed to meet their needs. 

The renovations you make to your workspaces should encourage connectivity and cohesiveness while maintaining privacy and personal places. Talk to your employees and give them a chance to weigh in on what renovations would be most beneficial. 

Hybrid Workspaces 

Everyone is different when it comes to what type of workspace is best. Some work better at home. Others are more productive in a conventional office setting. Many professionals thrive in hybrid workspaces. A hybrid workspace often includes a combination of both remote access and in-office work. Hybrid workspaces provide areas where employees can collaborate with one another and hold virtual meetings. There are also quiet places where employees can go for privacy and solitude. 

Biophilic Design 

Biophilic design brings the outside in and allows employees to reap all the benefits. Indoor gardens, walls made of foliage, water fountains/falls, and natural lighting can boost productivity by creating a relaxing work environment. It has been proven time and again that being surrounded by plants and other natural elements increases productivity and helps to maintain focus. Biophilic design also improves air quality in the office which also makes it more inviting. 

Employee Wellness Features 

Employee wellness has become one of the top concerns for members of management. Creating wellness rooms and offering ergonomic office furniture can help employees focus better. They feel more comfortable and will be able to pay more attention to what they are doing. Wellness rooms and relaxation areas give employees a safe space to go to when they begin to feel overwhelmed. Including a gym or fitness center is also beneficial and will give employees a workout area where they feel comfortable. 

Maximize Natural Lighting 

If you want to improve productivity and give your employees’ moods a boost, add more natural lighting. Add larger windows and put in a few skylights. Fluorescent lighting that is found in most offices can be hard on the eyes and make it difficult to maintain focus. Natural lighting is easy on the eyes and actually helps your employees get the Vitamin D they need in small amounts. Having larger windows will also open up a room making it seem much larger and more spacious. 

Create Outdoor Workspaces 

Turning an outdoor patio or picnic area into an outside workspace allows your employees a chance to work outside the box, literally. They have access to fresh air and natural lighting and also have the space to move around freely. Providing an outdoor work area that has everything they need to perform their tasks and achieve their productivity goals gives your employees a chance to move past any boundaries they may feel when confined to an office space. 

Community Spaces That Encourage Engagement 

Community spaces are common areas where employees can gather when they are not actually working. They are able to engage with one another and build long-lasting relationships that may extend outside the workplace. Although gathering around the water cooler is no longer a thing, sharing ideas and supporting one another during their lunch period does wonders for helping to create a team that enjoys working together. Employees have a chance to get to know one another and learn about what each one brings to the table. 

Taking the initiative to renovate your office space can open the door to many new opportunities for your employees. Offer them a work environment where they can grow and thrive. By including these elements, your employees will not only feel valued, they will also feel supported and appreciated. The options that can be included when renovating your office space are endless. Be creative and ask your employees to share their thoughts. Make sure to include them in the planning process!