SSDG Blog

Fun Workspaces: Good or Bad for Business? Tips for office space design

Is there such a thing as being too comfortable at work? Some employers worry about too much fun and relaxation in the workplace. They worry that incorporating games rooms, gyms, cozy couches and the like will lower productivity or send a message that this isn’t a ‘serious’ business.

Release those concerns if you have them. This hasn’t been our experience. In fact, the opposite is true. Giving employees a chance to blow off steam, socialize, and incorporate healthy breaks into their day is far more likely to increase productivity, creativity and staff retention. It could also be a strong hiring advantage when the employee market is tight.

The culture of your workplace and your brand itself is influenced profoundly by how the management team views ‘fun’ (i.e. ‘okay, but only in small doses’, or ‘where’s the party?!’ or ‘fun is just a normal part of our everyday life’).

If you would say that ‘innovation’ or ‘balance’ or ‘creativity’ are important brand values for your company, ask yourself if those are truly a part of your employee experience today.

Here are some thoughts for you to consider:

•    Think of your workplace as a community. Then ask yourself: how can I make this community function in the most healthy, productive way?
•    We advise: allow for fun. People are social beings. Productivity is not best delivered in a regimented environment.
•    Create spaces that encourage informal discussions and interaction. Really. Some genius business ideas occur over a latte.