In September, the largest worldwide trial for a 4 day work week occurred in the United Kingdom. That means that thousands of workers across the UK worked 4 days (32 hours) while maintaining the same pay.

The data from the UK program is in. Four Day Week Global, an advocacy group, has released a report summarizing the findings from companies that adopted 4 day work weeks in the September trial. 

We understand that studies like these provide helpful numbers when evaluating the many pros and cons of adopting a similar approach, so we’re distilling everything you need to know about the 4 day work week data. 

Primary Takeaways From the 4 Day Work Week Report

• 92% of organizations and companies are continuing their 4 day weeks.

• Productivity, business performance, and revenue were positively impacted.

• 71% of employees had reduced levels of burnout at the end of the trial.

• Attrition reduced. 

4 Day Wins

The report data for the 4 day work week is overwhelmingly positive. Here is the high-level executive summary of what you need to know about the key wins for companies and organizations that participated in the 4 day work week pilot program. 

Employer-Centric Data From the 4 Day Work Week Trial

• Revenue rose by 1.4% on average over the trial. 

• Business performance and productivity scored 7.5/10 on 2 different scales. 

• Companies rated their overall experience of the trial an 8.3/10. 

• Compared to a period from similar years, organizations reported a 35%+ increase in revenue. 

• Organizations experienced a -57% reduction in the number of employees leaving. 

Employee-Centric Data From the 4 Day Work Week Trial

• 90% of employees said they “definitely want to continue” the 4 day work week.

• 55% of employees reported an increase in their ability at work.

• 15% said “no amount of money” would make them accept a 5 day schedule at their next job.

Remaining Questions for the 4 Day Work Week

While the results from  4 Day Week Global’s report are overwhelmingly positive, there are still some remaining questions that business leaders need to consider before we all go hog wild adopting a 4 day work week. 

How much of the positive data is due to novelty?

The UK’s pilot program lasted only 90 days. It is possible that initial gains could be due to employee excitement over the novelty of the project. Long-term data is still needed to determine if the gains will be sustained. 

How much of a role did culture play in the program’s success?

What works for one culture may not work for another. Researchers need to consider what role culture plays in the success of the UK’s 4 day work week trials. To date, 4 Day Work Week Global has only conducted tests in English-speaking countries.

Is there variation in results by industry?

One of the main questions we’ve found ourselves asking is, “how does the data look when you break participating companies down by industry?” Does tech look the same as government? Does the effect of knowledge worker performance look the same as employees whose work is more hourly-focused (like factory and customer service workers)?

What Was the UK’s 4 Day Work Week Program?

Sixty-one (61) companies in the UK participated in a pilot program, adopting a 4 day work week. The test program took place from September through December 2022. In the 4 day program, employees maintained the same salary but adopted a 4 day (32 hour) work schedule each week. 

The program was organized and run by 4 Day Week Global in partnership with the UK’s 4 Day Week Campaign and Autonomy, a think tank. 

Who Led the UK’s 4 Day Week Research?

Professors Juliet Schor and Wen Fan of Boston College and Dr. David Frayne and Prof. Brendan Burchell of Cambridge University led the research. 

What Countries Have a 4 Day Work Week?

Countries that have participated in 4 day work week trials include the United Kingdom, Ireland, the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. 

What’s Next?

One report does not make for a mandate. Instead, this data will likely be one of many consideration points that business leaders grapple with as we continue to imagine the future of work. Every business needs to make decisions based on its specific situation—its goals, its challenges, its culture, and its workforce. 

One thing is for sure: the amount of time that employees spend in the office impacts how you should plan the space. As more teams transition to long-term hybrid work, we’re seeing an increase in collaboration spaces. 

Looking for inspiration for how to plan your space in 2023? Check out these resources. 

• The Power of Spaces

• What’s the Point of the Office in 2023?

• How to Design for Introverts and Extroverts

Need planning guides? Measurement guides? Furniture guides? We’ve got you covered on the blog. 

Gen Z has arrived, bringing a pragmatic, inclusive, and collaborative future focus to the workplace. Business leaders will need to understand many things about this unique generation in order to implement strategic changes that attract and retain Gen Z talent.

Who Is Gen Z?

Gen Z refers to anyone born between 1997 and 2012. They are also known as the Homeland generation or Gen Edge. Gen Z is the youngest generation currently in the workforce, a number that grows by roughly 4.5 million each year. By 2030, Gen Z will make up one-third of all workers. 

This group of resourceful problem solvers has much to offer employers due to their generationally unique experiences, traits, and values. They are realistic and resilient. As speaker Amy Lynch describes them, “Zs are builders and fixers, a generation adept at hacking life. If they don't have a solution, they find one. If they can't find one, they make one.”

Gen Z is an adaptive generation, like the Silent Generation born between 1925 and 1942, and is known to value the act of making something. What their great-grandparents referred to as tinkering, Zs may now know as hacking. Their respect for creating has helped grow the hands-on Maker or DIY movement and aesthetic trends like Cottagecore that lift up staples of simple living such as gardening, baking bread, and textile making.

9 Things to Know About Gen Z in the Workplace:

1. Gen Z Expects Quality DEI: Diversity, Equity, And Inclusion

Diversity, equity, and inclusion are no longer a workplace preference for Gen Z. DEI has become a baseline requirement for those entering the workforce. Gen Z holds the most intrinsic diversity within any American generation.

With 49% of zoomers (members of Gen Z) identifying as non-white and 22% identifying as LGBTQ+, Gen Z has grown up recognizing their identities as deeply intersectional. That recognition continues to grow. Over the past few years, nearly half of Gen Z felt their race, gender, and/or sexuality had become an increasingly important part of their identity. Gen Z expects workplace conversations around diversity, equity, and inclusion to be nuanced and thoughtful.

2. Gen Z Has a Future Impact Focus

Gen Z is significantly future-focused, with a top-ranking attitude that sets them apart from all previous generations. The majority actively consider what their future will hold. Their future focus is both individual and global, resulting in the climate crisis weighing heavily on Gen Z. Climate change is a core concern of this generation, and 9 out of 10 take measures to lower their environmental impact.

The vast majority (85–89%) of Gen Z say they want to work for a company with a mission that actively includes them. Dave MacLeod, ThoughtExchange's CEO and founder, believes, “Leaders who fail to rapidly shift their organizations into a force for good or include their people in figuring out just how to do that will end up becoming the Blockbusters of the business world.”

3. Compensation Is an Issue of Survival for Gen Z

Cost of living is at the very top of Gen Z’s list of concerns. Nearly half (46%) of Gen Z live paycheck to paycheck. They worry they won't be able to cover their expenses based on their primary job, resulting in 43% taking on a second job.

“They’re a really realistic generation,” Farah Mohiuddin, Forage customer success manager and early talent expert, says. “They grew up with a lot of economic uncertainty, and they’ve seen what millennials have gone through with the student debt crisis. They realize that they need to make money. They’re not talking about buying a house—they just want to survive.”

4. Work/Life Balance Is Imperative to Gen Z

Data collected by Deloitte revealed that 46% of Gen Z feel nearly constant stress, while almost half feel burned out due to their workload. Most respondents believe that employers are not doing enough to address these concerns and take preventative steps, resulting in burnout being a large contributor to employers’ struggle to retain Gen Z employees. 

Gen Z demographics collected by Collage Group explored the pressure they feel, finding 52% feel overwhelmed by meeting the expectations of others, and 49% feel their success is contingent on sacrificing areas of their life that are important to them.

5. Gen Z Lives at the Intersection of Autonomy and Socialization

Gen Z was raised with digital platforms that created abundant access to discourse and collaboration. This normalization of access to discourse has led Gen Z to consider being heard a fundamental right instead of a reward to be earned. Many entered the workforce able to engage in debate with individuals on all levels of the corporate structure hierarchy instead of starting out as quiet observers.

Gen Z approaches growth by prioritizing self-reliant problem solving yet still appreciates the opportunity to personally connect with coworkers. While they are comfortable communicating primarily through digital forums and applications, it is also important to plan opportunities for social interactions and/or strategy conversations to foster face-to-face interaction.

Conflict management, communication, and resolution are key areas for mentorship and increasing people skills. In-person meetings are especially important when handling difficult conversations, yet many in Gen Z are accustomed to primarily engaging in conflict through text messaging. 

6. Gen Z Needs Their Mentors to Provide Authentic, Holistic, and Practical Value

Gen Z values mentors and managers who respect their autonomy while taking a genuine interest in their personal and professional development. They want to feel included, valued, and empowered. Managing Gen Z workers requires clear communication of expectations to give them the independence needed for project ownership. Gallup’s employee engagement research links 70% of the variance in team engagement solely to the manager, meaning investments in personable and effective managers committed to the growth and success of the whole person will likely have noticeable impacts. 

7. Gen Z Prioritizes the Development of Varied Skills Over Specialization

This generation of makers appreciates the opportunity to grow a variety of skill sets over a singular expertise. Gen Z is also less motivated by job titles—they prefer to have a real stake in the company’s success by owning projects from start to finish. Multipart project ownership allows Gen Z to explore and expand several areas of expertise concurrently.

8. Design Aesthetic in the Workplace Matters to Gen Z

Gen Z has grown up with curated images on social media in an era when workspaces such as Apple stores and tech startups present themselves as an experience. The Gen Z desire for work/life balance extends to design aesthetics, including amenities such as workplace meditation spaces and access to healthy food. 

You can also address Gen Z’s commitment to mental health in part through workplace outdoor spaces and opportunities for fresh air as well as indoor plants. The Journal of Experimental Psychology found that the presence of indoor plants can increase feelings of well-being by 40%. Biophilic design elements are also correlated with higher productivity and lower absenteeism.

9. Technology Is Fully Integrated Into the Lives of Gen Z

For Gen Z, technology isn’t just a tool to be used. Gen Z wants technology that is current, relevant, and aesthetically pleasing. They are unique from other generations in that they have never known a time without the internet. As the first generation known as digital natives, Gen Z is wired to turn to technology to solve problems. Top priorities for Gen Z workplace technology include ease of mobility and the freedom to choose technology that matches their preferences.

Ah, the private office. It’s one of the work perks many of us love most—a place to focus without distraction or disruption. And—let’s be real—a private office feels like an upgrade: There’s none of that drab cubicle lighting, and you can shut your door when Jessica from Accounting microwaves fish again. 

But how should you set up your space so it meets your needs? Here’s a quick guide to measuring, selecting furniture, and planning so you can design your ideal private office.

1. Measure Your Private Office the Right Way

Before you can plan your space, you’ve got to know what you’re working with. And estimating square footage isn’t enough: If you don’t measure correctly, you may end up choosing ill-fitting furniture or arranging your space in a way that feels cramped and uncomfortable.

Here’s how to make sure you’ve got all the measurements and notes you need to plan your ideal private office:

1. Make sure you’ve got a drawing of the floor plan. You can obtain this from your leasing office, create one yourself, or use a tool like RoomSketcher. Don’t forget to include doorways and windows.

2. Next, measure the perimeter of the room, noting the exact width of each wall on the floor plan. 

3. Measure the length and width of doors and windows, then note your findings on the floor plan. 

4. Record other elements you may need to consider when planning your space. This includes electrical outlets, columns, breaker boxes, and HVAC control pads or vents. 

5. Finally, measure the ceiling height and note it on your floor plan. 

That’s it—you’re done measuring and you’ve created a thorough floor plan to guide you through planning your space.

2. Choose Furniture That Fits Your Needs

You’ve got a clear understanding of your private office space. Now it’s time to determine how you’ll fill it. 

Start with your desk and chair since you’ll use these 2 pieces of furniture the most. Think about your needs and preferences to narrow down your options and make shopping feel manageable. For example, do you want the additional surface area an L-shaped desk can give you, or do you want to make a statement with a bold executive desk? Are you interested in a more classic ergonomic chair, or do you have your sights set on a kneeling chair? 

Consider whether you need a bookcase or file cabinet for storage, a whiteboard for important notes and brainstorming, or a lamp to provide more comfortable lighting than standard fluorescent fixtures. And don’t forget about visitors: If you have meetings in your office, you’ll want a few chairs or a small sofa and perhaps a side table. 

Check out our digital catalogs or buying guides to find all the furniture and fixtures you need.

3. Plan Your Space for Optimum Comfort and Performance

The ideal private office is comfortable, easy to work in, and easy to navigate. Here are some helpful pointers for planning your space.

Overall, aim to arrange your office in a way that supports your daily routines and activities. If you often work on confidential documents, make sure your computer monitor isn’t easily visible to passersby. If you have lots of visitors in your office, guest seating should be easily accessible. And so on…

Build in convenience while you’re planning: Keep the items you use most within arm’s reach so you’re not forced to move around the room to complete tasks. Placing your printer on a return or housing your files in an under-desk file cabinet can prevent unnecessary hassle and protect your focus.

It’s not all about logistics, though—physical comfort is crucial for maintaining your health, productivity, and overall job satisfaction. If you’ve got a window, arrange your desk so you can look out the window. This allows you to enjoy the view, relax your eyes periodically, and take advantage of natural light. Speaking of light, ensure your computer monitor is located away from glares or harsh lighting, which often cause eye strain and headaches. 

One of the benefits of a private office is making it your own. Add artwork, a cozy rug, your favorite plants, family photos, or other decorative elements to leave your personal touch. 

Finally, make sure your space is safe: Avoid tripping hazards by tacking down rugs and using extension cords instead of dragging cords across walkways. Ensure tall, heavy furniture items are secured against the wall. And don’t block breaker boxes or HVAC control pads and vents.

Short on Time? Let the Pros Plan Your Private Office

Measuring, planning, and furnishing your private office is easy when you’ve got our guide—but it can take a little time. If you don’t want to add anything else to your to-do list, we can help. 

Quick, think about your favorite chair. It’s probably pretty comfortable, right? Does it make your body feel supported? Can you happily sit in it for hours without fidgeting?

Chances are, your favorite chair isn’t your desk chair. That’s because most of us will spend a considerable amount of time shopping around for a comfortable couch or armchair yet completely overlook the importance of a good desk chair, which we spend a full 40 hours a week in.

The problem is: A crummy desk chair isn’t just uncomfortable—it’s also bad for your health.

That Uncomfortable Desk Chair Is Hurting Your Health

A desk chair that doesn’t fit your body does much more than give you a flat, sore rear end. Sitting incorrectly or slouching causes fatigue, back pain, neck pain, joint issues, abdominal cramps, digestive issues, and blood clots. 

Musculoskeletal disorders are responsible for 1/3 of work injuries or illnesses, many of which are due to poor ergonomics. These health complications result in recurring physical strain, additional mental stress, higher healthcare costs, and even lower job performance. 

In Washington, neck, back, and upper-extremity issues make up 27% of all workers’ compensation claims, and “36% of the claims result in 4 or more lost work days and more than 43% of all costs.” And a small study of Iranian workers found that discomfort or pain in the neck, lower back, and thighs resulted in fatigue and correlated with decreased concentration and productivity.

It’s time for a new chair. 

3 Ways Ergonomic Chairs Support Better Health

Ergonomic chairs are designed to support the natural alignment of your body, remove pressure from your joints, and improve your posture—all benefits that enable you to work comfortably and stay healthy. 

Here are 3 big benefits you get when you switch to an ergonomic desk chair:

1. Reducing Back Pain and Injuries

Sitting correctly is a crucial factor in preventing or reducing the back pain experienced by 50–80% of Americans. 

Your pelvis should be flat when seated, tilting neither forward nor back. When seated correctly, this creates a small arch in your lower back. 

But it’s common for desk workers to engage in “sacral sitting,” which is sitting with the pelvis tilted backward. This puts weight on the sacrum and causes the lumbar spine to flex, which in turn puts pressure on the lumbar discs and strains the lower back muscles, resulting in lower back pain and sometimes compressed or bulging discs.

Ergonomic chairs safeguard you from tilting your pelvis so you sit comfortably and correctly with both pelvis and spine aligned. Typically, the lower back of an ergonomic chair curves forward slightly to keep your lumbar spine supported while you work, even if you’re in the chair for several hours.

2. Reducing Neck and Shoulder Pain

Another effect of sacral sitting is the hunched, C-shaped posture we’re all familiar with: shoulders slumped in front of the body and neck jutting forward. 

This is because tilting the pelvis back—especially while peering at a monitor in front of us—causes the shoulders to roll forward and the shoulder blades to slide away from the thoracic spine, pushing the head forward into a protracted position and jutting the chin upward.

Did you know the average 12-pound head jutting forward can put as much as 40 pounds of pressure on the neck and spine? No wonder desk workers get neck pain! This misalignment of the upper body can also lessen respiratory muscle strength, reducing lung capacity by up to 30%. Other common effects include shoulder pain, arm fatigue, headaches, and, over time, a permanent hunchback-like posture. 

Ergonomic chairs combat all this slouching by offering lumbar support to keep the pelvis and spine in place, adjustable armrests to keep the shoulders better aligned, and headrests to reduce pressure on the neck. Let your chair hold up that 12-pound head. 

3. Improving Core Muscle Strength

Kneeling chairs are quickly gaining popularity, and for good reason. 

Originally called a Balans (Dutch for “balance”) chair, a kneeling chair shifts the body forward so weight is resting on the shins in a kneeling position, which removes substantial pressure from the back, hips, and rear end. 

Since there’s no back piece on most kneeling chairs, the core and back muscles are forced to activate to maintain posture throughout the workday, which gradually strengthens them and reinforces stronger body alignment.

But even kneeling chairs with back pieces have ergonomic perks: Since the hips and torso are held at a more open angle (roughly 110°) than traditional sitting (90°), the reduced pressure in these areas lessens the occurrence of stiffness, pain, and long-term weakness. 

What to Look for in an Ergonomic Chair

Ready to upgrade your crummy desk chair to a healthier seating situation? Make sure you choose an ergonomic chair that offers everything you need to maintain correct posture, avoid aches and pains, and ward off long-term injuries and illnesses. 

Here are 5 crucial features to look for when shopping for an ergonomic chair: 

1. Lumbar support to help you maintain alignment while sitting

2. A seat that tilts so you can find comfortable pelvic positioning

3. An adjustable-height seat so you can rest your feet flat on the floor

4. Adjustable-height chair arms so you can reduce shoulder strain and arm fatigue

5. A headrest that will support your neck

A successful group meeting begins with a successful group space in which to meet. When people are uncomfortable, they are prone to making quicker decisions in order to end their discomfort. This reasoning is a large part of why our judicial system goes to great lengths to avoid sequestering juries. Feeling trapped in a crowded room is a poor use of valuable meeting time with your organization's key players.

Knowing how to measure, space, and choose the right table size for the room is essential when designing a conference room. Additional creature comforts relating to temperature and amenities can help prepare a conference room for any meeting.

How to Measure a Conference Room: 

• Sketch a floor plan of the room. The drawing does not have to be perfectly scaled. However, the more accurate it is, the more useful for planning the space. Include all windows, doorways, and areas involved in your project. 

• Measure the room. You will need to measure each individual side of the room’s perimeter. Work your way around the room’s perimeter with a measuring tape, recording the length of each side of the room.

• Measure the length and width of doors, fixtures, and windows. Record the length and width of any doors or windows on your drawing, as well as any clearance needed for doors and windows to open fully. When measuring, first measure the width of the door or window. Then measure from the edge of the window to a perpendicular wall.

• Add electrical outlets. Mark your outlets for the space on the floor plan. For outlets located in places other than a wall, measure from the nearest perpendicular wall to the outlet and record the measurement on the floor plan. Add measurements for breaker boxes, columns, or any other unmovable objects to the floor plan.

• Measure the height of the ceiling. Record this measurement in the margin of the floor plan.

Design Standards for Conference Room Spacing:

Conference Table Seating:

• 30″ side-to-side minimum of personal space per chair

• 36” minimum of personal space per chair if participants are expected to have computers or other personal materials

• 42” minimum of personal space per chair when social distancing protocols are in place

Visual Displays:

• 56″ between the table and visual display board

  • TV or monitor viewing at 30 to 45 degrees from the center of the screen

  • 24″ to 30″ minimum clearance for presenting material on a wall while standing

Cabinets and Storage:

• 36″ minimum clearance for lower cabinets, shelves, bookcases, and other furniture that require bending to access

• 72″ between table and wall for 24″-deep storage towers and credenzas

Conference Room Design Standards for Table-to-Room Size Ratio

Accessible Table-to-Room Size Ratio: 

• 68” of space to allow a wheelchair to pass between the wall and back of the chairs 

• 32″ of space to allow someone to stand up from the table 

• 36” of space for a wheelchair-accessible path between the chair back and the wall

Comfortable Table-to-Room Size Ratio:

• 56″ of space to walk between the wall and chair back

• 32″ of space to allow someone to stand up from the table

• 24″ walking path between the chair back and the wall

Minimum Table-to-Room Size Ratio: 

• Minimum 48″ to walk sideways between wall and chair back

• 32″ of space to allow someone to stand up from the table

• 16″ sideways walking path between the chair back and the wall

Choose a Conference Table to Fit Your Room:

4–6 Seats

• Table Size: 72″ (6′) L x 48″ (4’) W

  • Accessible Room Size: 17’ 4” x 15’ 4” 

  • Comfortable Room Size: 15′ 4″ x 13′ 4″

  • Minimum Room Size: 14′ x 12′

• Table Size: 84″ (7′) L x 48″ (4’) W

  • Accessible Room Size: 18’ 4” x 15’ 4”

  • Comfortable Room Size: 16′ 4″ x 13′ 4″

  • Minimum Room Size: 15′ x 12′

6–8 Seats

• Table Size: 96″ (8′) L x 48″ (4’) W

  • Accessible Room Size: 19’ 4” x 15’ 4”

  • Comfortable Room Size: 17′ 4″ x 13′ 4″

  • Minimum Room Size: 16′ x 12′

8–10 Seats

• Table Size: 120″ (10′) L x 48″ (4’) W

  • Accessible Room Size: 21’ 4” x 15’ 4”

  • Comfortable Room Size: 19′ 4″ x 13′ 4″

  • Minimum Room Size: 18′ x 12′

• Table Size: 120″ (10′) L x 58″ W

  • Accessible Room Size: 21’.4” x 16’ 2”

  • Comfortable Room Size: 19′ 4″ x 14′ 2″

  • Minimum Room Size: 18′ x 12′ 10″

10–12 Seats

• Table Size: 144″ (12′) L x 48″ W

  • Accessible Room Size: 23’ 4” x 15’ 4”

  • Comfortable Room Size: 21′ 4″ x 13′ 4″

  • Minimum Room Size: 20′ x 12′

• Table Size: 150″ (12.5′) L x 48″ W

  • Accessible Room Size: 23’ 10” x 15’ 4”

  • Comfortable Room Size: 21′ 10″ x 13′ 4″

  • Minimum Room Size: 21′ x 12′

• Table Size: 144″ (12′) L x 58″ W

  • Accessible Room Size: 23’ 4” x 16’ 2”

  • Comfortable Room Size: 21′ 4″ x 14′ 2″

  • Minimum Room Size: 20′ x 12′ 10″

• Table Size: 150″ (12.5′) L x 58″ W

  • Accessible Room Size: 25’ 4” x 16’ 2”

  • Comfortable Room Size: 22′ 4″ x 14′ 2″

  • Minimum Room Size: 21′ x 12′ 10″

12–14 Seats

• Table Size: 168″ (14′) L x 48″ W

  • Accessible Room Size: 25’ 4” x 15’ 4”

  • Comfortable Room Size: 23′ 4″ x 13′ 4″

  • Minimum Room Size: 22′ x 12

• Table Size: 168″ (14′) L x 58″ W

  • Accessible Room Size: 25’ 4” x 16’ 2”

  • Comfortable Room Size: 23′ 4″ x 14′ 2″

  • Minimum Room Size: 22 x 12′ 10″

• Table Size: 180″ (15′) L x 58″ W

  • Accessible Room Size: 26’ 4” x 16’ 2”

  • Comfortable Room Size: 24′ 4″ x 14′ 2″

  • Minimum Room Size: 23′ x 12′ 10″

14–16 Seats

• Table Size: 192″ (16′) L x 58″ W

  • Accessible Room Size: 27’ 4” x 16’ 2”

  • Comfortable Room Size: 25′ 4″ x 14′ 2″

  • Minimum Room Size: 24′ x 12′ 10″

18–20 Seats

• Table Size: 240″ (20′) L x 58″ W

  • Accessible Room Size: 31’ 4” x 16’ 2”

  • Comfortable Room Size: 29′ 4″ x 14′ 2″

  • Minimum Room Size: 28′ x 12′ 10″

22–24 Seats

• Table Size: 288″ (24′) L x 58″ W

  • Accessible Room Size: 35’ 4” x 16’ 2”

  • Comfortable Room Size: 33′ 4″ x 14′ 2″

  • Minimum Room Size: 32′ x 12′ 10″

Temperature and Amenities

Each human added to your conference room will raise the temperature in the room by some amount. Large windows can also account for temperature swings from morning to afternoon. Having temperature-regulating window coverings can be very beneficial. 

Having ice water, coffee, and tea on hand in the conference room can help people regulate their internal temperatures when the room temperature fluctuates. Having hand sanitizer, lotion, tissues, allergy-free snacks, and headache medications easily accessible in the conference room can also help keep your guests comfortable and ready to tackle anything.

Growth is a hallmark of success. Reaching our full potential requires us to stretch outside our comfort zones, comprehend new concepts, leverage new skills, and overcome countless challenges. 

Easier said than done—but having a growth mindset can bolster your success. In fact, if you don’t have a growth mindset, your mind may be your biggest obstacle.

Here’s a look at how the growth mindset contributes to achievement and how you can start cultivating your own.

What Is a Growth Mindset?

A growth mindset is the perspective that skills, knowledge, and intelligence can be learned or improved through effort. Therefore, our capabilities are malleable rather than static.

Carol Dweck, a Stanford psychologist and researcher who was the first to coin the term, noted how a growth mindset reinforces a sense of possibility: “Although people may differ in every which way in their initial talents and aptitudes, interests, or temperaments, everyone can change and grow through application and experience.”

Since Dweck pioneered modern conversations about growth mindset more than 20 years ago, the concept has been embraced by therapists, leaders, coaches, and athletes around the world. Acclaimed CEO Satya Nadella has spent the past few years instilling a “learn-it-all” culture at Microsoft because he believes a growth mindset is critical to high performance.

Understanding a Growth Mindset vs. a Fixed Mindset

A fixed mindset is the perspective that traits are “inherently stable and unchangeable over time.” 

This line of thinking can be limiting: When we believe our efforts are futile and there’s little we can do to improve, we often aren’t motivated to learn new information, try our hand at new activities, or take on more challenging tasks. 

And so the fixed mindset creates a self-fulfilling prophecy of sorts: We don’t put in effort, so we don’t see results. As Henry Ford famously said, “Whether you think you can or think you can’t, you’re right.”

5 Ways You Can Develop a Growth Mindset 

What if you don’t have a growth mindset? Not to worry—the growth mindset hinges on the very idea that you can develop one. 

Here are 5 tactics that will help you cultivate a growth mindset:

1. Get Comfortable Being Uncomfortable

We often cling to the fixed mindset because playing it safe lets us avoid discomfort: If we don’t push the limits of our capabilities, we don’t risk feelings of vulnerability or failure. 

Growth, on the other hand, is inherently uncomfortable. Learning something new requires us to push past our limits to grapple with the novel and unfamiliar. This discomfort is why many of us avoid challenges. But if we want to grow, we’ve got to challenge ourselves.

Reframing challenges can make it easier to embrace them. Focus on the positive outcomes of taking on a challenge, viewing it as an opportunity to try something new, expand your knowledge, or advance your skill set. Over time, each challenge will feel less like a hurdle and more like a step forward.

As you successfully overcome challenges, you’ll gain more confidence in your abilities and experience less fear of failure. Eventually, you’ll equate a sense of discomfort with learning rather than fumbling or failing—an important distinction.

2. Celebrate Your Progress

The growth mindset isn’t just about change and challenge—it also provides us with plenty of reasons to celebrate our hard-won accomplishments. Each new fact learned, skill mastered, or feat overcome is a reason to extol our progress. 

Take time to reward your efforts by celebrating milestones, big and small. 

Acknowledging how far you’ve come is a wonderful way to positively reinforce your growth mindset. This also prevents you from fixating on the outcome, which commonly causes frustration or impatience when pursuing long-term goals because the endpoint feels so far away. Learning to enjoy the journey helps you appreciate the present and enjoy the process.

3. Engage in Positive Self-Talk

Believing in our ability to learn and improve is a cornerstone of the growth mindset. If you tend to have a pessimistic outlook or engage in negative self-talk, break the habit by shifting your perspective to more positive thought and speech patterns. 

One easy way to do this is adding the word “yet” to your statements, which serves as a reminder that your efforts can create a future reality that’s different from your current state. 

A few examples: 

Negative                 Positive  

“I’m not good at this.”            “I’m not good at this yet.” 

“I don’t know the answer.”        “I don’t know the answer yet.”

4. Dwell on Solutions, Not Problems

Complement your positive self-talk with a solution-oriented approach to problems, which can help you maintain a can-do mindset during challenging situations.

When faced with hardship, don’t spend too much time dwelling on the problem itself. Instead, consider all the skills and resources you have at your disposal and how you can leverage them to create a strong outcome. Make a list, if necessary. Keep the focus on possible solutions and how you might implement them. Chances are, this practice will help you pinpoint a path forward and put your solution in motion. 

Remembering how capable you are can help you approach challenges with a clear head and confident energy, which will typically yield better results. 

5. Be Patient With Yourself and the Process

A growth mindset must be balanced with this simple fact: We can make great strides, but we can never be perfect. We’ll have imperfections no matter how much we improve. 

So give yourself permission to fumble and fail. Remember that it’s OK to feel frustrated or disappointed—as long as you don’t let your failures stop you. Take a breath, take a break, then keep going. 

If you falter in your growth mindset here and there, don’t worry. Dweck notes that “nobody has a growth mindset in everything all the time.” 

Mindset Over Matter

If you’re reading this article, congratulations—you’re already showing commitment to your growth and success. 

Developing a growth mindset is a crucial step in achieving more for yourself, so do everything you can to practice the tactics we outlined above. And remember to keep the focus on possibility, positivity, and progress. You’ve got this.

Ah, the open office. High ceilings and expansive shared work areas have become a hallmark of modern office design, especially in the tech industry. 

But is the open office right for your business? Will it spark collaboration or create distraction? Will it save money or hamper efficiency?

Before you ask your contractor to start knocking down walls, let’s take a tour of the open office. There are 7 crucial factors to consider when determining whether an open office layout is right for your team:

1. Cost

2. Health

3. Communication

4. Distraction

5. Privacy

6. Equitability

7. Aesthetics

Here comes the tour.

7 Crucial Factors to Consider Before Choosing an Open Office

1. Open offices can be more cost-effective.

Money talks, especially when it comes to an open office. If your budget is tight, an open office layout can save you money in 2 significant ways: 

1. Minimal internal infrastructure can reduce up-front construction costs by thousands.

2. Shared office areas require less square footage than closed offices, enabling you to secure an overall smaller and, thus, less expensive space. This can save you tens of thousands over the life of your lease.

The flexibility of an open office is also a perk: You can easily reconfigure an open office to accommodate business growth so you can stay in your current space longer before needing to expand into a larger space or relocate. 

2. Germs spread more easily in open offices.

While workplaces have long been vehicles for widespread illness during cold and flu seasons, COVID-19 has magnified concerns about protecting employee health in the office. 

The bright, expansive feel of an open office can be energizing, especially during the dark, cold winter months. But this is misleading: Walls and partitions work wonders to prevent the spread of germs—so open offices become hotbeds of illness within hours of viruses or bacteria being introduced, especially for airborne illnesses like COVID-19. 

Consider the following note about germ spread from an Inc.com article: “An uncovered cough or sneeze creates a spray of up to 4,00 disease-ridden droplets that travel at up to 200 mph to a distance of up to 26 feet and stay suspended in the air for 10 minutes.” (Ewww.)

So what you save on office construction and square footage may be spent in lost productivity, more sick days, and higher healthcare costs.

3. Communication patterns may change in open offices.

Open office enthusiasts are quick to cite increased collaboration as the biggest perk of an open office. Fewer walls mean more opportunities to chat, brainstorm, share ideas, and engage with coworkers we otherwise may not encounter.

But the jury’s still out on whether employees pursue these additional opportunities for collaboration, at least when it comes to face-to-face communication. A study of 2 Fortune 500 companies published in Harvard Business Review found that “face-to-face interactions dropped by roughly 70% after the firms transitioned to open offices, while electronic interactions increased to compensate.” 

Other studies have found similar results, and many point out that employees simply aren’t as comfortable communicating while several colleagues are within earshot. 

Ask your employees about their workplace preferences and encourage them to share any concerns they may have about working in an open office. Then you can ensure the open office layout you choose helps your team feel comfortable, supported, and motivated. 

4. You need to be mindful of noise in open offices.

Noise and visual distractions can be more pronounced in open offices since there are fewer walls and partitions to act as buffers. This can lessen productivity and efficiency—and increase frustration—for employees whose focus is interrupted. 

Luckily, thoughtful office design can help. Include decor that reduces sound travel, like plants, rugs, tapestries, acoustic panels, and small dividers or decorative screens. Glass walls are another smart choice: They visually extend a space while cutting down on noise and providing some privacy. 

Reduce disruptive cross-talk by grouping a few couches or chairs with a whiteboard and activity table to create communal areas. Invite teammates to collaborate in these spaces rather than in hallways or at individual workstations, which may be more distracting to employees who are working autonomously.

5. Some teams may need more privacy than an open office provides.

Tech and creative workers who work on cross-departmental projects or do lots of collaborating often favor open offices—but the highly transparent nature of an open office may not be suitable for work that requires more privacy.

Employees who work in human resources, for example, will be working with confidential documents and often need to have confidential conversations with employees. The same goes for team members handling sensitive financial, legal, or medical information. If the nature of your business requires more buttoned-up security, an open office may pose additional challenges for you.

And remember that protecting privacy isn’t just about preventing sound from carrying. Computer monitors or documents laid out on desks are much more visible in open offices, making it easy for employees to even inadvertently become privy to information that was meant to be confidential. 

6. Open offices can feel more equitable.

An upside of the open office is its more egalitarian feel—eliminating physical barriers gives new meaning to the open-door policy. 

Supervisors work alongside their teams all day, reinforcing the idea that they’re available to guide and support their teams in a more hands-on way rather than simply manage from afar. Newer or junior employees feel more comfortable approaching teammates or leaders to share ideas or make suggestions. 

And working side-by-side all day bolsters a sense of unity and partnership. Teammates are, quite literally, in it together.

7. Open office aesthetics are hard to beat.

If you ever spent a few years or your early career crammed inside a dark cubicle, you know open office aesthetics are hard to beat. 

The combination of high ceilings, clean lines, and elongated spaces make an open office feel large and airy. Since there are fewer walls, natural light often extends throughout an open office, reducing the need for the harsh fluorescent lighting found in so many traditional office spaces. 

An open office can also offer a wow factor: A few well-placed sofas and glass walls can highlight the large scale of the space and impress your visitors. 

But beware of clutter and messes, which are often harder to hide in an open office environment. If you want to protect the sleek aesthetic, you’ll want to ensure your employees have plenty of storage to stow belongings and supplies. 

Is the Open Office Right for Your Business?

Thoughtful office design transcends decor and considers how the space will impact comfort, motivation, and performance. Ultimately, the office layout you choose should support the needs of your business and employees. 

If the open office feels like the right fit, our team can help you get started with your design and decor plans. We offer complimentary design services to help you with everything from seating arrangements to furniture selection. Talk with our team today to get started.

The Ever-Changing Workplace

The workplace is changing. Most of these changes aim to improve employee life and, in turn, their productivity. Here’s a look at the changes taking shape and how they will affect workers as more companies take note.

Balance of Private and Public Working Spaces

After a huge migration toward open-plan spaces in order to ditch the cubicle, many companies have found that this setup isn’t as desirable as they were led to believe. While open-plan designs allow for more collaboration, other downfalls include a lack of privacy and more distractions. 

Today, many workplaces aim to find a balance in their working environments. Most of the research supports that most employees, especially those of an introverted nature, prefer to have a balance and, more importantly, a choice where they perform certain work tasks. While completing some work tasks in a large collaborative space may be better, other independent tasks require more privacy and quiet to allow full concentration. Having the autonomy to choose has been shown to increase workers’ productivity. Turns out, employees might just know best when it comes to where they work most effectively. More companies are entrusting them to make that decision.

More Flexibility and Better Work-Life Balance

As more millennials flood the workforce, companies recognize a shift in workers’ priorities. For example, millennials place a larger emphasis on flexibility compared to other generations. Many millennials say they would sacrifice salary if it meant having a more flexible work schedule. 

With more of the workforce looking for flexible positions that promise better work-life balance, more employers are likely to respond due to the worry of missing out on top talent. Technology also allows for more flexible working schedules as it grows better and more reliable. Many companies are offering the option to work from home.

Greater Concern About Health and Wellness

The Guide to Big and Tall Chairs

If you’re of a larger stature, then a big and tall office chair will keep you much more comfortable while you work than a standard-size seating option. Big and tall chairs are designed to hold more than 250 pounds of evenly distributed weight, and they’re the ideal choice for users taller than 6 feet. Check out our top picks for big and tall chairs.

The Stamford Faux Leather Big and Tall Chair 

This faux leather executive chair supports larger users without sacrificing style. The faux leather upholstery is soft to the touch for a rich feel, and the hardwood framework artfully complements it. These features work together to create a look that is regal and professional.

The Space Big and Tall Mesh Chair 

If you’re looking for a big and tall chair that will breathe, this is the one. With a mesh back and padded mesh seat, this chair allows airflow that prevents the user from becoming overheated after multiple seated hours. This chair also comes with adjustable seat height, lumbar support, arm height, arm width, tilt lock, tilt tension, and knee tilt controls to help you locate the best possible position for your body.

The Executive 24/7 Intensive Use Genuine Leather Chair 

This is the Cadillac of big and tall chairs. 

With a 550-pound weight capacity and an extra-sturdy 7-leg base, it was designed to stand up to use 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Due to its intensive use construction, this chair is ideal for settings such as dispatch centers where a single chair gets used by multiple people across shifts all day long. Myriad ergonomic adjustments and genuine leather upholstery make it one of the most comfortable chairs we offer.

The Linear Big and Tall Memory Foam Stool 

Whether you’re an artist working at a drafting table or want to switch from standing to sitting easily at your standing-height desk, stools also come in big and tall varieties. This NBF Signature Series stool features a mesh back for breathable comfort and adjustable armrests for support. The foot ring is also adjustable so users of different heights can rest their feet comfortably.

The Omega Faux Leather Guest Chair 

What Size Office Chair Should I Get?

It’s a common misconception that office chairs come in a one-size-fits-all size. On the contrary, task seating is designed to accommodate people of specific body types. Every individual is unique, so finding the correct chair for your body type is essential. Read on to determine what size chair will be best for you.

Standard-Size Office Chairs

Most people will feel comfortable using a standard-size office chair. Commercial-grade office chairs are designed to support up to 250 pounds and are usually comfortable for people between 5’ 5” and 6’ 0” tall. Although standard-size office chairs are ideal for most individuals, there are many other factors to consider when selecting which chair to purchase. Look at the height of the back of the chair and the ergonomic adjustments available when determining whether an option will work for you. Proper ergonomics are important not only in standard-size office chairs but in all office chairs.

Petite Office Chairs

Most petite office chairs can still support up to 250 pounds, but these seating options are designed with a shorter cylinder and a smaller seat pan to accommodate individuals who are 5’ 4” or shorter. For petite people, a standard-size seat pan will often hit the back of the knee uncomfortably, while a too-tall cylinder will leave the feet dangling off the ground without help from a footrest. Petite chairs scale everything down, allowing shorter users to experience the same level of support as standard chair users.

Big and Tall Office Chairs

Wire Management for Your Conference Room

Keeping cables at bay is an oft-overlooked part of creating a beautiful conference room or meeting space. While it may be an aesthetic choice, it's also a safety measure. Great cable management keeps workspaces clean and pathways clear so you can stay focused on the big ideas. 

Tech-Ready Designs

When purchasing conference tables and credenzas, look for pieces designed with tech in mind. Grommets are a no-brainer for keeping conference phone cords out of sight, allowing power adapters and connectors to run beneath the table instead of out in the open.

Keep your devices powered thanks to tables with integrated plugs and USB ports. Self-storing, out-of-the-way power modules may be built into the surface of the table or along the sides so laptops, phones, and tablets can stay up and running during marathon meetings and brainstorming sessions.

Safe and Streamlined 

Where there are cables, there are outlets, and sometimes they're not in the most convenient places. Avoid trip hazards and enhance workplace safety by keeping grounded cords out of the way and well-organized. If you're planning a renovation or refresh, consider installing additional outlets in areas beneath conference tables or behind credenzas.

On-the-ground cable covers are necessary for keeping data and power cables in line and are designed to be low-profile to reduce trips and falls. Consider adding baseboard or corner raceways to create smooth, out-of-the-way paths to outlets and data ports. When running cables through the walls isn't an option, keeping wires concealed is the second best choice for workplace safety.

Optional Additions 

As your technology needs change and grow, retrofit existing furniture pieces. Quick and inexpensive fixes, such as stick-on cable clips or Velcro closures, are easy to mount to smooth surfaces and offer semi-permanent solutions. Cable sleeves and spirals, as well as under-table baskets, make for easy ways to consolidate cords into a singular, streamlined run.

Use adhesives or screws to mount power strips beneath tables or behind credenzas for easy, expandable power that can accommodate any number of temporary or constant usage needs. Choose power strips rated as surge protectors to protect against unexpected electrical spikes.

Go Wireless 

There's no shortage of programs and apps that allow your computer to communicate with televisions and presentation screens. Skip the HDMI cable and share your screen during presentations or keep your computer on an out-of-the-way credenza and control the screen with a wireless keyboard and mouse.

Create a Comfortable, Productive, and Personalized WFH Space

Create a comfortable, productive, and personalized work-from-home workspace. A few quick changes can make all the difference:

• Level up your office organization by taking advantage of vertical space, allowing for more supply storage as well as a little decorative flair

• Make the most of your desktop with compact L-shaped desks that can fit snugly in a corner

• Create mixed-use spaces with furniture that can get the job done during the workday but move out of the way while the room serves a different purpose

• Use bins, baskets, and desktop organizers to DIY your storage in a way that's functional and fun

Work/Life Balance When Working From Home

When work makes its way into the living space, it starts to feel as if work is everywhere. Work/life balance has always been a challenge, but it’s especially difficult to conceptualize and enforce when working from home. 

While it might feel like work is everywhere and everywhere is work, that's just not the case. Acknowledging your needs, enforcing your boundaries, and remembering you're only human is the start of creating a healthy relationship with work, even when it's so close to everyday life.

NBF partnered with Kelton Global to survey more than 1,000 American workers. We examined how people feel about their work-from-home workspaces and what they need to make their days better and brighter using a combination of finding the right furniture, designing a beautiful workspace, and building behaviors that can create long-lasting workplace wellness.

Ergonomics Are Essential

At the office, your company chose desks, chairs, and supplies they thought were ideal for the entire company. At home, you might not have these workplace essentials ready to go. As you settle into your workspace, consider furniture that is a net benefit for physical health.

We found that 22% of those frustrated with their current space are using outdated furnishings or equipment that impact productivity. Meanwhile, 3 in 10 believe their workspace needs an upgrade. If you're part of either group, make sure that your new-and-improved setup is doing its best to help you stay on task.

Take a Seat

It's no surprise that seating is a constant struggle for work-from-home employees. As you look for the right seat, you aren't bound by traditional office options. Consider finding a task chair with the same support and features that are staples of workplace seating.

Size and Shape

Whether you're big and tall or petite and small, there's a chair that's suitable for your stature. Find a chair designed to fit your body type with as much or as little padding as you'd prefer.

Materials

While the colors and styles are endless, a few standard materials are used in office furniture. Polyurethane and other faux leathers are easy to clean and durable, while real leather is a luxurious option for an elevated office. Cooling mesh can make working a breeze, and fabric can add style without sticking to your skin.

Ergonomic Adjustments

The right combination of adjustments can make your workday experience feel like a dream. Mix and match the right tilt (synchro, knee, or center), lumbar support, arm movements, and seat depth that works for you.

Desk Decisions

From traditional tables to storage-rich setups, desks come in a wide array of configurations and features to help you customize your workspace. No matter what size space you're working with, there are endless options to fit every floor plan, design scheme, and budget.

Desk Height

Standard-height desks are the standard for a reason, but people are turning to standing-height solutions for an added ergonomic benefit. Height-adjustable options marry the best of both worlds for those who like to sit or stand at any stature.

Storage Options

Pedestal desks have a wealth of supply and file storage, while others are lighter on storage and encourage users to use mobile filing cabinets and other storage units to conceal their workday musts.

Tabletop Organizers

Coordinating hutches, both big and small, are there for your right-at-hand needs. These can occupy valuable vertical real estate to further enhance small space work areas.

Set (and Stick to) Boundaries

The boundaries you set with management, coworkers, and yourself will determine the success of your work/life balance. Likewise, leaving loopholes, creating exceptions, and relaxing boundaries can quickly erode any positive groundwork.

After determining reasonable boundaries, communicate them to managers and colleagues. Then? Stick to them. Calendar programs often can set available hours to establish a rough guideline that's visible to everybody, while other nuanced boundaries may need more direct communication.

• Determine what hours are available for meetings and reasonable for responding to emails, calls, and instant messages.

• Decide whether you will check incoming communication during nights or weekends. It's OK if you keep all work-related communication to working hours only.

• Select what applications you'd like to install on personal devices and set notifications to correlate with your available hours.

• Realize that it's OK to keep work time separate from personal time. If possible, determine who can take care of emergencies in your absence should you be unreachable.

Build a Routine

Thoughtful boundaries will naturally establish a workday and workweek routine. Once your working hours are defined, begin to schedule important activities at easy-to-anticipate times—and don’t forget to include what's important to you. These little rituals can have a big impact on workday happiness.

Start Strong

Find the right way to start your day on a positive note. Brew a great cup of coffee, tidy up your desk, or do a quick sweep of your mailbox while listening to your favorite podcast.

Take a Break

Real, scheduled breaks can feel like a luxury when working from home. Build in time for lunch, a quick walk, or any necessary appointments that might conflict with the workday. Even a 15-minute meditation session can make its way into the daily routine as a way to clear your mind and get ready for the next task.

Add a Little Personal Time

While it's ill-advised to blend your work life and personal life too much, it's OK to schedule some time to accomplish a household chore during the day. Use one of your breaks to run a recurring errand or quickly tidy part of your house without feeling guilty for wasting work time.

Make a Perfect Playlist

Everybody has a different ideal soundtrack for their workday. Find a great auto-generated playlist, explore curated collections on your favorite streaming service, or subscribe to a podcast you can play in the background. White noise apps are another great way to keep the room tone lively without adding distracting words or lyrics.

Wrap Up and Wind Down

Ease your way out of the workday mindset with a relaxing task that will leave you in tip-top shape for the next day. Take the last 15 minutes to leave your workspace organized, sterilized, and clean so that your early morning self can start the day off right.

Need a Helping Hand?

When you're alone at home, it's easy to forget that resources are available through your employer.

Employee Assistance Programs 

Employee assistance programs (EAPs) aren't all created equal, but look into what your company offers and keep these benefits in mind. Some EAPs offer free counseling for workplace and personal issues, which can be used as a singular solution or a stepping stone to additional help. Childcare support, legal advice, and gym discounts are commonly available in EAPs, but these programs differ from company to company.

Talk to Your Manager 

The pandemic presented a new set of challenges that impacted every employee differently. Discuss your needs with your manager, including how your personal needs intersect with and affect your work. Accommodations can be made to ensure that employees' professional success and mental health are all accounted for, but sometimes this takes input from one's supervisor or human resources.

The Design Guide for Painting Your Office

The shade of paint you choose can make or break a space. The all-around wrong color, clashing accents, mismatched lighting, and myriad reasons can create a disaster that's all-surrounding during the workday. As you choose your color palette for your home office or corporate workspace, consider the factors that go into a great color scheme that becomes the foundation for a great workspace.

Corporate Offices

It doesn't matter if you're a small business or a corporate giant—designing a professional office space is less about one's personal taste and more about what's best for everybody. Sure, this sounds like it might be a bit restrictive, but that doesn't make any of your choices any less meaningful.

Consult a Professional 

An educated and experienced interior designer will have a wealth of knowledge and recommendations for your space. There's no harm in reaching out to a person who's used to finding the right fit; in the long run, it's worth it. Especially if you're painting multiple rooms, a designer or planner will know how to tell a visual story that compliments your entire office.

Try Before You Buy

No matter who is calling the shots, paint samples are vital to better understand your choices. While conventional paint chips might help, if larger swatches are available, take advantage of them.

No-Brainer Neutrals 

Your primary color will probably be a variation of off-white, light gray, or a faint taupe, and that's not just OK—it's advisable. These no-nonsense colors are tried and true, though they're not as harsh as a bright white.

Agreeable and Accessible 

Be mindful of different employees' needs that may be applicable now or possibly down the road. For instance, colorblindness can affect the way a person perceives bolder accents. People with visual impairments may need an emphasis on bright spaces and proper lighting. Even if this doesn't apply to your current staff, looking toward the future is never ill-advised.

Different Space, Different Mood 

The open office isn't the only space worthy of consideration. Think about how your paint choices tell a story throughout the office, and aim for a cohesive experience that won't distract employees or guests. Be particularly mindful of your reception area. For workers, it's symbolic of the start of the business day, but for guests, it's necessary to make a great first impression with tasteful design.

Acceptable Accents

If you have a big room, it's a given that you have big walls. If you're trying to add an accent wall, avoid doing so on any wall close to employee desking. Entryways, nooks, or infrequently used spaces can benefit from an accent that doesn't overwhelm you. Especially in a main space, consider using your company's colors to offset the ubiquitous neutrals.

Consider Your Upholstery

Are you designing your color palette around your furniture, or are you designing your furniture around your palette? Make sure all choices are well-coordinated, and you're not pairing cool and warm tones that will clash and distract. Be mindful of upholstery on seating or even on cubicle panels.

Creative Conference Rooms

Especially if your business has a plethora of conference rooms, this is a great opportunity to get creative with your color schemes and furniture choices. While you'll certainly want to reserve one as a highly professional space, use smaller collaboration areas to choose interesting colors or out-of-the-box furniture without committing to a large space.

The VIP Treatment

Allow incoming leaders to personalize their private office. Use a wall that isn't completely occupied by large furniture as an accent wall. When one person leaves and another person moves in, ask them what color they'd like it painted. It's a personal touch that won't break the bank or take up too much time.

Home Offices

There's a big difference between an office designed by you, for you and a multiperson office that needs to appeal to all. While you have a lot less space but a lot more flexibility, several considerations can still improve productivity, increase energy, and promote workday wellness.

Push the Boundaries of Neutral

Eggshell, ivory, and alabaster are played out shades of off-white that can stay in the past. In the home and the home office, neutral color palettes can play with different shades of gray and taupe. More daringly, a pastel palette can create a peaceful atmosphere in your workspace that's far from drab.

Invigorate With Paint

If you're trying to create a high-energy space, ditch the neutrals and pastels and embrace bolder, more stimulating colors. If your space allows, use a combination of palatable neutrals and exciting hues for accent walls or details.

Dark Colors Aren’t Dull

For some, dark paint colors can make a room feel serious or studious, which may be what you're going for. If this fits your personality, don't shy away from working with deeper tones to get the right look. If you're working within a small space, try to mix dark and light colors on different walls to keep the space from feeling too cramped.

Avoid Antagonistic Colors 

As you work your way through the rainbow, there are a few less-advisable colors to avoid. For instance, reds are known to inspire anger and intensity. 

Add Accents

Accent colors aren't just reserved for accent walls. Baseboards, molding, fixtures, and other odds and ends are often painted. If you're going to deviate from your wall colors, make sure that you pay attention to these bonus colors so that they don't stand out negatively.

Let There Be Light

If you're lucky, your at-home workspace will benefit from natural light. Even when the sun goes down, there are still major considerations with what lighting you use. Whether overhead lighting or dedicated task lighting, choose light bulbs that fuel your mood. Some people enjoy brighter blue-toned bulbs while others benefit from softer, more docile tones. Not sure? Your smartphone can control many digital light bulbs to find the perfect balance.

Think Long-Term 

We perceive color differently as we age. If you're designing for the long haul, go with a color and design scheme that will be pleasing as you advance. This is particularly true if you're putting together an office for an elderly person. If you've got multiple occupants, collaborate on your palette to ensure it's pleasant for everyone.

Millennials in the Office: How to Adapt to Different Working Methods

Millennials are often said to work differently than the generations before them. If you need evidence of this, you don’t have to go too to find it. 

Consider the San Francisco 49ers. This football team consists almost exclusively of millennials—all talented athletes in their prime. According to an article published in The Wall Street Journal, the traditional ways of coaching were no longer working for the team. After consulting with Stanford University researchers, the 49ers coaching staff implemented a few changes to better suit these millennials' preferred working and learning habits. These changes are all aimed at helping millennials to train and perform better. 

Why is it important to note what this NFL team is doing? Soon, millennials will account for the majority of the workforce, and helping them to work at their best will be in the best interests of all employers. Here are a few strategies you can implement to help those with different preferred working and learning habits:

Make Meetings Shorter

One of the first changes the coaching staff made was to trim their standard 2-hour meetings into 4 30-minute meetings with breaks between each. Chances are, many workplaces could benefit from shorter meetings. In fact, too-long meetings are one of the most common grievances among employees, no matter what industry they work in. 

A good way to judge if meetings are too long or perhaps too frequent is to take stock of your meeting culture. Also, make sure your meetings end with each team member having targeted action items to complete. This ensures meetings will be productive and can also help keep team members on task and organized.

Give the Option for Breaks

Breaks have been proven to help with the productivity of all employees, not just millennials, so this change is bound to help everyone. Whether it’s having a coffee bar area set up for workers to take a break and refuel or encouraging employees to take a quick walk when they feel overwhelmed, having a space where taking a break is tolerated and not looked down on can really help employees feel more refreshed and be more productive. The 49ers saw better focus and performance by instituting more breaks—even if the athletes did not always take said breaks.

Allow Access to Information

The millennial generation has also been dubbed “the iPhone generation” for a reason—they like being connected and feel the need to access instant information. Allowing millennials to access cell phones and the internet can help them feel inspired and motivated. Constant access to information doesn’t have to be distracting when combined with the freedom to take a few short breaks here and there.

Now Trending: Driftwood Finishes

Neutral colors will always be in style, and gray has been a clear front-runner for modern offices that find black depressingly dark and white blindingly bright. The trend toward gray has moved from being just a shade you paint on the walls to being a color you can use as a base anywhere, from the upholstery on chairs to the finish on your desk. In fact, we’ve seen more gray ash desks and tables over the last couple of years that have a weathered, driftwood-like appearance. With this finish, you can still get the beautiful wood grain look you love but in a soft, neutral shade that will look good when paired with just about any other color.

In an Office

The rustic look of gray ash gives it a homelike appearance, making it a great choice in an office. Whether in an open-concept workstation or a private office, you probably spend a lot of time at work. In fact, many office employees spend more waking hours in the office than they do at their residences. Making your office feel a little more like home is a great way to boost your mood and, by extension, your productivity.

In a Waiting Room

In the same way that you want your office to feel like home, you want to give your guests a warm welcome as soon as they walk into your reception area, which is just what this finish helps achieve. Not only does the color give off a soft look, but it can also be paired with any accent color when you want to turn up the volume. Pair it with bright green accents for a bold look or subdued blue for a calm, serene appearance. No matter what look you’re going for, this color delivers.

In a Conference Room 

Conference tables and storage units in ashy gray tones are attractive but not overly distracting. This makes them a great choice for use in a conference room wherein the goal is to create a professional look without taking away from the importance of your meetings.

Similar Washed-out Wood Tones 

The Pros and Cons of Standing Meetings

It’s a fact of life—we sit, and we do a lot of it, especially at work. Unfortunately, our sedentary habits come with a cost—negative health effects. Research has shown us how much we can benefit by merely standing for short periods. In fact, research has shown that balance and moderation of both sitting and standing is the way to go to have healthy and effective working habits.

One way to incorporate more standing into your daily routine is to have standing meetings. These meetings have advantages and disadvantages. While attendees of standing meetings tend to be more focused on the task at hand, they are not always the most efficient. Occasionally, standing does not allow us to work in the ways we need to, such as when it comes to stooping over to take notes. Standing meetings help us get moving and ward off negative health effects, but they simply are not appropriate for all meetings.

Standing-Height Ergonomics

You’ve added a standing desk to your workspace to help ward off the negative health consequences of sitting all day. You’re now consistently moving and incorporating a balance of sitting and standing. But have you forgotten about ergonomics? While a balance of sitting and standing is the most important, you’ll also want to consider the height of your workstation, the position of your monitors and keyboard, and your ergonomic chair adjustments to make sure that your body is fully supported whether you’re taking a stand or sitting for a bit.

Set Your Workstation at the Proper Height

Your workstation should not cause you to strain to reach something high or low. If you are reaching to look up or down, it can cause a lot of strain on your shoulders, neck, and back. An adjustable-height desk allows you to move the workstation up or down to accommodate your height. You will want to position your workstation (including your keyboard) so your arms are parallel to the ground while typing (no stress on elbows or shoulders) and you're not looking up or down at monitors but instead straight ahead, keeping your shoulders and neck relaxed. It's recommended that your monitor is placed about arm’s length from your face.  

Stand Correctly

Standing at your desk for the recommended amount of time isn't enough—you'll need to be sure you are standing correctly. Otherwise, you may still experience those aches and pains you’ve been trying to avoid. Having your monitor at the right angle and your workstation at the right height will help, but remember to keep your back straight and shoulders relaxed. Avoid reaching above or behind the shoulder line. Avoid crossing your legs in any matter when standing and avoid locking your knees—both of these movements can disrupt blood flow. Instead, keep your feet pointed toward your workstation and your knees loose and comfortable.

Consider Your Feet

Even if you stand for short bursts throughout the day, you’ll want to consider how your feet are holding up. If they are sore or uncomfortable after standing, evaluate your footwear and add an anti-fatigue mat to your workspace. Switching to practical footwear for standing is ideal, and anti-fatigue mats can make a huge difference in supporting your feet and legs.

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