Blueprint for a Better Office

Research reveals four high-impact workplace design improvements

A workplace can look great. But what really defines a good day is whether it helps people get work done. Most U.S. leaders (96%) say they’re making changes — or plan to — in the next few years for better workplace design and to support for their teams. But new Steelcase research in nine countries reveals those efforts aren’t landing where they matter most.

The obligation office

Globally the number one reason to go into the office isn’t to do their best work- it’s because they are required to.

The office needs improved workplace design to support what matters

One likely reason why: across the board, people are not happy with how their spaces support what they think is most important. Gaps are sizable and have a real impact. An Improved workplace design is needed.

Employees identify four critical gaps holding the office back- wellbeing, focus, screentime and privacy. Workplace improvements, in these areas, even subtly at first can make a meaningful difference.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              

1. Address wellbeing: The biggest need

When asked what they most want improved in the office, employees overwhelmingly cite wellbeing as their #1 request. Data show the biggest boosts to wellbeing come from improving a range of spaces for focus, collaboration and connection.

2. Improve the workplace design through better privacy.

On average, people spend two-thirds of their day working alone, yet they are not happy with the spaces they have available for focus work.

3. Build environments in workplace design to manage the screen effect

Screens now dominate the workday, with people reporting 71% of their screen time is spent alone. And too much screen time leads to lower engagement.

As AI accelerates and reshapes work in ways we’re only beginning to understand, these patterns signal a growing need to rethink how people connect, collaborate and find meaning in their day.

Spaces need to support screen-based work well, but also should encourage people to step away from screens with places for rejuvenation and human connection. This includes designing environments that restore attention and invite people to do what AI can’t – be fully present with others.

4. Create workplace solutions for more privacy

Privacy is key to addressing wellbeing, focus and screen time.

So what’s the issue?

Employees point to a range of privacy needs beyond being able to just shut a door.

Privacy isn’t one thing but a spectrum of needs. Workplaces that offer a range of solutions, from simple, easily added elements to more immersive settings, allow people to get the right level of privacy when they need it.

Improvements that People Need

Early signals point to a powerful lever most people don’t have — access to a variety of spaces (three or more) that support different kinds of work. And those who do, report:

+14% Higher engagement

+16% Stronger sense of community

+13% Improved wellbeing

The message is clear. When improved workplaces support how people actually work in different ways throughout the day, people perform better and feel better. And that’s what turns the office into a place people want to be.

Find out how LOTH can help your workplace.

Data Source: Steelcase Global Employee Research December 2023