Integrating outdoor spaces into commercial office properties is happening more and more. Gone are the days when a simple desk and a chair sufficed. Contemporary offices now seek to provide holistic environments that promote work and well-being.
This blog explores the benefits of these green additions, from improving employee morale and encouraging innovative collaboration to promoting recreation and physical health.
Greenery and employee morale
Nothing soothes the human mind quite like nature. The gentle rustling of leaves, the aroma of blooming flowers, and the verdant expanses have a calming effect. It’s no surprise, then, that introducing greenery into commercial properties has been linked to a surge in employee morale. Such landscaped areas provide the perfect escape from corporate life’s regular hustle and bustle, offering employees a niche to relax and recharge.
Take, for instance, the outdoor space of Winnersh Triangle. Its design is not an afterthought but a strategic implementation to ensure employees have a tranquil environment. Even a short break amidst this greenery can refresh the mind, helping employees tackle tasks with renewed vigour.
Outdoor meeting and collaboration zones
Who said meetings should be confined to four walls and a projector screen? Outdoor collaboration zones are increasingly finding favour in modern office designs. Such spaces are not only novel but can drastically change the dynamics of discussions. There’s something about fresh air that stimulates the brain, encouraging brainstorming sessions that might not be possible within the traditional confines of a meeting room.
Furthermore, nature has always been a muse for humanity. Surrounded by the sights and sounds of the outdoors, employees might just stumble upon their next big idea. When nature inspires creativity and innovation, the results are often beyond what one might achieve in a standard indoor setting.
Recreation and physical health
While mental well-being is vital, physical health isn’t far behind, especially when considering overall productivity. In understanding this, modern commercial spaces are often equipped with amenities that promote physical activity. Cycling zones, gym facilities, and walking paths encourage employees to incorporate fitness into their daily routines.
Winnersh Triangle, Reading, sets an example with its state-of-the-art gym, Move HQ. This isn’t just a space with a few weights and treadmills; it’s a comprehensive facility designed for a holistic fitness experience. Moreover, the introduction of the Ryde bike hire system is a nod towards promoting green commuting and ensuring employees can exercise even during their commutes.
The link between physical health and productivity is well-established. Active employees often have better stamina, fewer health issues, and a more positive outlook, all of which contribute to better work output.
Conclusion
Commercial properties are no longer just about providing a space to work; they’re about ensuring that work is conducted in an environment that promotes well-being, creativity, and productivity. Integrating outdoor spaces in office properties isn’t just a trend—it reflects an evolved understanding of what drives performance.
Whether it’s the calming effect of greenery, the inspiration from nature, or the focus on physical health, outdoor spaces have proven their immense value in commercial real estate. Winnersh is just one glowing example of this integration, and as more companies realise these benefits, the future of office spaces looks green and promising.
Grade-A office space in the perfect working environment
Winnersh Triangle is a 1.5 million sq ft mixed-use business park located in Reading, with a wide range of offerings, including major headquarter buildings, grade-A offices and start-up office suites. To learn more, get in touch with us today.
