Gone are the days of employees being excited about their offices having ping pong tables and a beer tap in the kitchen. Office spaces have become more than a place to work – they foster community and spark innovation. To achieve this, modern office spaces are incorporating a wide array of amenities that go beyond traditional desks and chairs. These amenities are designed to enhance the work experience, promote collaboration, and address the diverse needs of today’s workforce. Here are some of the most popular amenities we are seeing in offices.
Outdoor Spaces
Access to nature and fresh air is increasingly important in office design. Rooftop gardens, terraces, and green spaces offer employees a tranquil escape from their desks and a chance to recharge. These areas can also be used for informal meetings and events, adding versatility to the office environment. Additionally, these spaces can help boost team member wellness by exposing them to natural sunlight.
Google’s new location at St. John’s Terminal in NYC has “1.5 acres of vegetation at street level, in rail bed gardens, and on terraces,” enhancing “the experience for occupants but also benefitting the local ecology.” With a variety of outdoor meeting spaces, their office is setting a standard for how we can bring our work outside.
On-Site + Subsidized Childcare
For working parents, on-site childcare facilities offer a significant convenience and peace of mind. With costs for childcare in the US averaging $321 per week, having on-site care, back up childcare and subsidized options can be of tremendous help to working families. By providing this amenity, companies can support their employees’ work-life balance and demonstrate a commitment to family-friendly policies.
At the headquarters of many large companies, such as Goldman Sachs, Home Depot, Johnson + Johnson, and Publix. Many more offer childcare or subsidize childcare costs in locations throughout the country.
The “New” Game Rooms 
To promote a healthy work-life balance and reduce stress, many companies are incorporating game areas into their office designs. While this idea isn’t new, what they are putting in these rooms are the next generation of gaming. These spaces often have technology integrated into them with video games, or as one recent client shared with us, a golf simulator. Having a place for some respite during breaks, while also allowing the team to tap into their hobbies and competitive sides can lead to happier employees.
Conclusion
The addition of these trendy perks shows a shift towards crafting workplaces that truly care about employee happiness, flexibility, and overall joy. As companies ride the wave of changing work environments, splurging on clever and fun office goodies is key to luring in and keeping the cream of the crop. These snazzy features don’t just jazz up the workday; they sprinkle a little magic into the company culture, making it a happy and productive place to be!
