Sedus INSIGHTS No. 19 explores the question of how well thought-out workplace design promotes cognitive and collaborative work and ultimately improves the quality of life of employees. We are talking about hybrid spatial concepts, working environments for the age of diverse tasks in which people take centre stage. They transform offices into communal spaces, increase productivity and create meaningful work experiences. Hybrid working environments must not only be functional, but also flexible, and focused on the well-being of employees.
These seven examples and trends show what other possibilities there are for creating positive experiences:
1. Workplace with good friends: How strong social bonds can boost employee wellbeing and productivity
The pandemic has weakened social bonds, resulting in fewer people maintaining friendships at work. However, according to Gallup’s 2022 research, employees with friends at work are seven times more engaged. Randstad Employer Brand Research found that 94% of Singaporeans see strong workplace relationships as the most important non-monetary benefit. Organisations should therefore specifically encourage social interactions to boost the wellbeing and performance of their teams.
2. Sensory overload on the screen - a digital epidemic: "The Anxious Generation" by Jonathan Haidt
Constant screen use is increasingly affecting mental health, especially in children and young people. In "The Anxious Generation", Jonathan Haidt describes how digital media is causing an "epidemic of mental illness" and calls for radical restrictions. Some countries are already responding and considering bans on mobile phone use for children under a certain age and/or in certain environments such as schools.
3. Be fully involved: Coldplay concerts of a special kind
Many artists are encouraging their audiences to focus more intensively on live performances at concerts and avoid digital distractions. Coldplay singer Chris Martin therefore asks concertgoers to put their smartphones away before he plays "A Sky Full of Stars". This promotes a sense of community and increases the emotional connection between the artist and the audience.
4. Bridging the digital-analogue divide: The Internet of Senses
To make digital experiences seem more real, many technology companies are now focusing on sensory stimulation. The Internet of Senses Institute and start-ups such as Osmo are developing AI-driven technologies that enrich the online experience by integrating smells, e.g. to enhance brand experiences and for entertainment purposes by creating more immersive environments.
5. Revitalising outdated office spaces: the concept of midlife metamorphosis
With changing working models, many office buildings are becoming obsolete. The Midlife Metamorphosis framework, developed by architecture firm NBBJ and real estate company JLL, focuses on transforming obsolete office buildings by integrating services and communal spaces, creating rooftop areas and designing offices that focus on social connections. This creates attractive spaces for human interaction in urban environments.
6. Create a "brain-healthy" workplace: Designed workplaces increase the well-being of employees
A pilot project by consultancy HKS and the Center for Brain Health has investigated how place, process, policy and technology can promote mental health in the workplace. The report shows that factors such as managing distractions, creating diverse workspaces and fostering social relationships are key to a 'brain-healthy workplace' and increased well-being.
7. A human-centred view of office performance: Gensler favours new emotion-based measurement methods
In contrast, presence in the office has evolved to the point where intentionality and purpose-orientation determine office work and human relationships take centre stage. Gensler's "Global Workplace Survey 2024" shows that in addition to function, layout, availability and proximity, emotional reactions such as beauty, inspiration and a feeling of appreciation must also be included in a workplace assessment.
A meaningful combination of people, space and technology
The world of work is changing rapidly - from the importance of social connections and digital sensory overload to new concepts for office design and work culture. The examples and trends presented show that companies need to actively address these developments in order to create working environments that promote productivity, well-being and innovation. The future of work lies in a meaningful combination of people, space and technology.
Read more about human connections in Sedus INSIGHTS #19.
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