Tag: Serviced Offices

Whilst an office should always serve as a practical and professional space, there are ways to create a comfortable, cosy, and inviting environment- reminiscent of how we feel at home. After all, the office can be perceived as a home away from home.

Making the office feel like an approachable space isn’t just about the furnishings that soften the aesthetic; it’s also about the culture of the team working in it. We’ve compiled a list of ways to create a sense of belonging for the staff in your office.

Physical touches to warm an office environment

1. Furniture

Utilising soft furnishings is a great way to create more relaxed settings within your office, think a cosy ready nook for lunch breaks or research sessions. Sofas with cushions in your brand colour palette, and wall art that brings life to the walls in the space.

When utilising art or furniture, try to draw design elements that create a sensory experience with your brand. Doing it through colours, materials, textures, and styles. This creates cohesion in your design, and it allows your environment to reflect your brand in subtle ways. 

Using practical storage solutions like coat hooks, bag nooks, and umbrella stands allows staff to comfortably settle into the work environment. Also, keeping their desk space and additional office areas clutter-free.

The environment we work in is vital in shaping our experience, inspiring a sense of togetherness through considered interior design.

2. Plants

Utilising decorative elements in a considered manner that feels professional, yet welcoming, helps create the feeling of an inviting space. Incorporating plants into the room offers mental and physical health benefits, along with brightening the space and injecting energy into the atmosphere.

3. Fragrance

Sensory experiences often play a big role in the day-to-day comforts of our lives, from scented candles to incense. Whilst these aren’t practical or safe in a commercial setting, utilising diffusers is a great way to incorporate scents into the environment.

4. Lighting

Lighting can influence our experience of an environment, so it’s important to utilise lighting to create experiences that serve different purposes. For instance, lamps being used in more informal breakout areas can help soften the aesthetic and make it feel cosier.

Whilst a bright, white overhead light can help replicate the feeling of sunlight in darker corners of an office during the winter months, when daylight hours are much shorter. Where possible, however, we recommend utilising every bit of natural sunlight to illuminate the room.

Creating a workplace culture that feels like home

Workplace culture is everything; think of it as the feeling your business creates for employees working there. This includes making staff feel like they belong there, that they are encouraged to be their best, improving well-being and creating experiences that improve the well-being of belongings.

Creating a sense of purpose is a big draw for employees to feel comfortable and part of a community. As such, it’s a key part of making the office have a warm and open atmosphere.

If you’re looking for an office environment that balances out warm and welcoming design with a professional and clean aesthetic, we might be the right choice for you. We can work with you to ensure your office feels effortlessly inviting so it fits perfectly for you and your team.

For workforces adopting the hybrid work approach, flexibility is a key advantage, giving employees the choice of when they work in the office and remotely. Whilst flexibility is valued, there’s real value in creating an environment that employees prefer to work from.

The focus is no longer on creating office days, but on creating environments that naturally attract staff.

How to attract teams using hybrid work models

Managed office spaces offer many perks. For the hybrid workforce, it can enhance the work experience.

1.      Office design and activity-based working

The design of the working environment plays a crucial role in motivating and encouraging employees to work in an office. A major benefit of managed office spaces is the various work zones allocated for different styles of working. Whether that be open-plan collaboration areas, quiet spaces like Zoom pods for solo sessions, or social spaces like outdoor seating and communal kitchens, where connection is made tangible.

Different spaces and services can cater to the evolving needs of a business and the individual preferences of employees. Each space is carefully designed to maximise ease and function for users. Ergonomic furniture improves the experience of staff, ensuring they’re comfortable whilst working.

Design is incredibly influential on employee wellbeing; a naturally well-lit office can help create work environments that keep members enthused. Utilising plants is another great design method for improving staff wellbeing through thoughtful environment design.

2.      Collaboration

Creating opportunities for collaboration is another driving factor in attracting employees. Working together can strengthen rapport, promote innovation and improve efficiencies. Some of the ways you can do this are by:

• Utilising co-working spaces
• Hosting workshops
• Mentoring opportunities
• Team days
• Set collaborative goals
• Networking opportunities

3.      Culture & socialisation

One of the biggest draws of attracting employees is to create a culture that people want to be a part of. One aspect of that is creating opportunities to socialise. Work takes up a great portion of our lives, so being able to enjoy it is crucial to making people want to work in the office rather than remotely.

Culture starts by setting out the company values and behaviours which will shape the experience of workers. Some values we believe are essential for attracting staff are:

1. Ensure there’s inclusion and diversity
2.  Create opportunities to build trust
3. Find opportunities to inspire, and share them
4. Encourage feedback
5. Reward positives, whether that be achievements or behaviours
6. A problem shared is often a problem halved. Don’t be afraid to find solutions as a team

Ultimately, a team that is confident and comfortable communicating and that wants to present indicates a strong workplace culture.

Why WorkWell is the ideal solution to office-first hybrid models

WorkWells offices are designed to make the days in the office a rewarding experience, from the modern design and comfortable furnishings to our prime locations and vibrant community. We provide an adaptable environment, designed to serve the members using it, and guaranteed to promote productivity and reduce, if not eliminate, inefficiencies.

If your hybrid workforce is looking for an environment that attracts employees to work in the office, don’t hesitate to contact us to explore your options and create a bespoke contract.

Serviced offices, by design, offer far greater flexibility than leased spaces, with shorter terms and ease of moving and simpler contract setups. At WorkWell, we ensure our serviced office comes with flexibility, allowing our members to adapt to change in real time whilst avoiding being locked into a rigid contract.

What makes a flexible contract valuable for a business?

Flexibility is ideal when seeking out an office contract. It affords businesses the agility to adapt, pivot, and scale your environment to their business needs, ultimately giving them a competitive edge in a consistently evolving landscape.

A flexible contract can be useful for reducing costs by limiting overhead spending by merging all the costs into one flat fee. This not only saves budget but can make the set-up process efficient as there aren’t lots of contracts needing to be set up.

Those opting for a managed office space are able to tap into an already established community, which in turn increases networking opportunities. This is something that rivals the traditional office, as it makes the process of connection easier.

This type of contract empowers businesses to make decisions based on their current needs, rather than being locked into long-term contracts that don’t serve them. Gone are the days of being trapped in an environment that isn’t conducive to success.

Which contract features should you look for to stay agile?

What makes a great contact? Well, the key is a lot of things when there’s a balance struck. Your contract must meet your basic requirements, i.e.:

• The cost
• The duration of the lease
• The notice period
• The breadth of the services you can use
• If business rates are included

The key to getting a contract that allows your business to stay agile in such a competitive market is to look for the following in your managed office contract:

• How flexible the contract is, i.e. can it be changed during the contract or are you locked in
• Benefits/perks of the space, i.e., WorkWell members can use all communal space indoor and outdoor with access to Zoom Pods, sound-insulated booths, refreshments and free parking.
• If there are penalties for early contract termination

How does WorkWell make flexibility functional?

Most serviced office providers will give their members some flexibility, but at WorkWell we go beyond that. With the unique advantage of being able to scale mid-contract, we ensure our members’ workspaces serve them.

We accommodate these needs by adjusting the environment to the growth or reduction of the business, when necessary, providing smaller or larger office spaces to ensure the space is practical for the member.

Our fees are all inclusive, meaning only one bill goes out of the business account each month. All bills are streamlined at WorkWell, which means one flat cost for the rent, utilities, maintenance, and security is included within the leasing fee.

The approach we take is low commitment for the member, so whether it’s leasing a day office for a day or using our co-working spaces for a week. We make it easy to flex the contract, so you get the most out of the space and your money.

Could flexible contracts be the key to long-term success?

Absolutely, serviced office spaces with flexible contracts, like ours, are the bedrock of success. An adaptable contract flexes with your business, rather than restricting its capabilities. A major benefit, for instance, is the reduction in spending for leased office space. With members only paying what they need, they’re able to allocate more budget to their business, which can be a factor in creating success.

There’s a lot of value in picking a provider that caters to your business’s needs not only in the present, but for the future too. Real-time adaptability is fundamental when offering flexible contracts.

If you think a managed office could be the right solution for you, don’t hesitate to contact us to find out whether WorkWell is suited to you and your business needs.

Most people spend about 90,000 hours of their lives at work. That’s nearly 45 years. It makes sense that the workplace can play a big role in our health. When designed badly, an office can add to stress, leading to burnout and making people feel worse, not better. That’s a problem for both employees and employers.

Investing in your employees

The good news is that investing in a high-quality workplace yields significant benefits. When companies prioritise employee well-being, encompassing not only physical health but also mental and social well-being, the benefits are substantial. People feel better, and they take fewer sick days. They’re more engaged and productive, which means companies perform better as well.

Research by the McKinsey Health Institute shows that investing in employee health could create between $3.7 trillion and $11.7 trillion in economic value worldwide. That’s around $1,100 to $3,500 of value per person, or up to 55% of average annual pay. Most of that value, up to 77%, comes from improved productivity and reduced presenteeism. That’s when people are at work but not able to work at their best.

Too often, businesses focus solely on visible costs, such as absenteeism. But those account for just a fraction of the opportunity. The hidden cost of people not working to their full potential is far higher. And that’s where a better workplace can make the biggest difference.

A healthier workforce benefits the business and lifts entire communities. Healthier workers are more likely to be involved in their local area, help others and lead fulfilling lives outside of work. That’s why better workplaces are not only good business, they’re also good for society.

The pitfalls of employee health

Unfortunately, the current state of employee health is not where it should be. A global survey of more than 30,000 employees found that only 57% reported good overall health. Just under half, 49%, were ‘faring well’, meaning they had good holistic health and no symptoms of burnout. One in five reported signs of burnout.

Burnout is not the same as being tired after a long week. It includes exhaustion, feeling mentally distant from work, and a sense of being unable to cope. It affects people across every industry, although some are more severely impacted than others. Employees in accounting, retail, agriculture, shipping and the arts reported the lowest health and highest burnout levels. Even in the best-performing industries, fewer than three in four workers reported being in good health.

The situation is worse for certain groups, with women, LGBTQ+ individuals, younger employees, people with lower income or education levels, and those who are neurodivergent all reporting worse outcomes. These groups made up 80% of the survey respondents.

Designing office spaces for success

The design of the physical workplace plays a huge role in supporting wellbeing. At WorkWell, we have emphasised the proven value of natural light, indoor plants, quiet zones, and access to fitness facilities. Workspaces filled with sunlight and biophilic elements, such as greenery or nature-inspired textures, have been shown to reduce stress and boost cognitive performance. Employees who sit near windows get better sleep and report higher productivity. Plants not only purify the air but also create a more calming and restorative environment.

Equally important are quiet spaces and on-site fitness facilities. In open-plan offices, having a designated space to retreat to for focus or rest can significantly reduce stress. Physical activity, whether it’s a lunchtime yoga class or a treadmill in the office gym, is directly linked to sharper thinking and an improved mood. When companies design environments that promote movement, reflection, and calm, they’re not just building offices—they’re investing in human potential.

A high-quality workspace isn’t just about better chairs or healthy snacks. It’s about the full work experience. That includes feeling safe, supported and respected. It means having leaders who genuinely care, clear roles and expectations, and a culture that fosters a sense of belonging and purpose.

The most successful employers take a systematic approach. They measure how people are doing. They test solutions and adapt based on data. They train managers to support wellbeing. They look beyond quick fixes and instead build a culture that supports long-term health.

There are plenty of examples to learn from. At the sportswear company On, an employee health programme led to a 30% drop in staff turnover, a 5% boost in productivity, and a $2.9 million a year savings, an 11.6x return on investment. At Ikea Canada, adding ‘Wellness Days’ helped reduce employee turnover from 35% to 24.5%. At Audi, voluntary health checkups led to high employee participation and long-term health benefits.

Final thoughts

Even small changes can have big results. Encouraging movement breaks, promoting mental health awareness or improving access to coaching can all help. What matters most is that health becomes a core part of how the workplace functions, not just an add-on or an afterthought. When work supports wellbeing, everyone wins. Employees are healthier and happier. Companies perform better. And society as a whole benefits.

Work shouldn’t be something people have to recover from. It should be a place where they thrive. Investing in high-quality workspaces is one of the smartest things any business can do.

When creating or picking out your office environment, it’s clear that a one-size-fits-all approach rarely works. Actually, having various thoughtful amenities for yourself and staff to utilise can enhance productivity, increase motivation and create a working environment conducive to success.

Consider, for instance, the impact of ergonomic and purpose-driven furniture. Whether it’s a supportive chair, an adjustable standing desk, or specialised sound-proofed pods, perfect for privacy and productivity. Integrating the right furnishings can transform the space into an inspiring and desirable work environment.

Furniture for employee-centric work environments

Zoom Pods (Solo Pods)  

Zoom or solo pods are sound-insulated booths which provide an enclosed space with a seat and desk. Solo pods provide a quiet space for staff to work independently or to utilise for privacy on professional calls. This style of furnishing is fantastic for open-plan offices, providing a modern solution to distractions in the workplace.

Desk Exercise Apparatus

To combat the effects of a sedentary workday, consider under-desk or desktop fitness equipment. The additions to stay active whilst working, ensuring both a healthy body and mental alertness for employees.

Ergonomic Furniture

Ergonomic furnishings are designed to fit the natural configuration of the body; they are designed to play on these comfortable positionings in order to prevent strains. A great example of ergonomic furniture includes standing desks, which allow a person to oscillate between being seated and standing, encouraging circulation and energy levels.

Quiet environments & collaborative zones

Beyond the solo pods, you can work to create quieter environments with breakout rooms and soundproofed seated booths. These dedicated zones introduce variety into the workday, which allows a team to convene in a private and calm space which can spark creativity and encourage collaboration.

Considerations to make

When considering the best way to set up or select an office, consider different aspects of the working environment. Spotting an inefficient office environment pre-emptively allows you to tailor and adjust the space to suit the varying needs of your business.

• Comfort
• Organisation
• Acoustics
• Aesthetic
• Lighting
• Space
• Flexibility

Striking a balance between these different aspects of the environment allows you to craft an environment that works for you. By proactively addressing inefficiencies and aligning your environment with your goals, you produce a space that drives promising outcomes.

An office that has been properly conceptualised and designed fosters inspiration, motivation and most importantly, a sense of belonging. When staff feel valued and comfortable in their work environment, it reflects in the quality of their work and overall engagement.

Should I use plants in my office?

Introducing plants into your office design is a fantastic way to enhance the space. Not only do they offer a range of benefits, but they also bring a natural beauty that can elevate even the dullest work environment. We utilise plants in our communal spaces to offer additional energy and colour to the space. Here are just a few proven advantages that plants can offer:

Certain plants can improve the air quality within the space –

Plants, like trees, have the capability of removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Certain plants are known to be great at stripping the air of toxins; these include:

• Peace Lily’s
• Aloe Vera plants
• Spider plants
• Rubber plants

Plants can elevate the appearance of a space –

Life and vibrancy can be brought into otherwise sterile office spaces through the use of plants. Their rich greens and occasional floral bursts add a pop of colour, making them excellent decorative elements for grey or white work environments. As an added bonus, some plants can introduce fresh, natural scents—just be mindful of any allergy sensitivities among your team.

Improving staff mental health with green hues –

Improving mental health via plants has been a topic of contention for a while, with many studies being conducted around the concept. It has since been proven that exposure to green environments can help reduce stress and improve the mood of individuals.

Plants help us feel connected to nature and can, therefore, transport us mentally outside of the office environment into a space that is beneficial to our mental health. Taking care of live plants allows us to offload some of the stressors whilst boosting our physical

Increasing productivity and creativity that is felt within the space –

The mental health benefits of plants extend naturally into enhanced productivity and creativity. When we feel better, we think better. A well-placed plant can help create a more inspiring and motivating workspace that encourages fresh thinking and higher engagement.

The best placements for your office plants

This is a given, but make sure your live plants have access to plenty of sunlight; positioning them by a window will ensure they’re able to grow and that they thrive. Consider placing plants on desks that have plenty of light reaching them, this ensures they won’t die and counteract all the benefits provided.

Faux plants offer a slight bit more flexibility, with the ability to be placed in the darkest corner of the room without dying. Just remember, these false plants will need to be dusted and will not need to be watered.

Greenery – whether it’s real or artificial – can be simple yet effective at introducing warmth and life into your workspace. For those who’d like to include living plants but worry about upkeep, we also offer a maintenance option to keep them and your space thriving.

At WorkWell, we understand that no two businesses are the same—nor are their workspace requirements. That’s why we specialise in providing flexible and adaptable office environments designed to evolve alongside your team.

With the ability to adjust layouts, modify furnishings, and create a workspace that truly works for your business, we give you the autonomy to shape your ideal office environment. At WorkWell, your office isn’t just a place to work—it’s a space built around your needs, growing and adapting with you.

The Power of Office Customisation (Benefits)

Creating a space that works for you is essential. A well-designed workspace enhances productivity by fostering an environment that inspires, attracts, and promotes happiness. These elements make day-to-day work more enjoyable and help create an appealing office atmosphere that people genuinely want to be in.

Key Considerations for Office Design

When planning your office setup, you need to consider both what you want and what you need. Key factors include the size of your team, the available office space, and the location.

Furnishings

Choosing the right furniture can be a challenge, but at WorkWell, we make it simple. You don’t need to worry about costs, assembly, or logistics—we handle everything, so you can move straight into your fully serviced office. We work closely with you to ensure your workspace is the perfect fit for your business.

Standard inclusions: Ergonomic chairs, desks, and storage solutions.

Customisable add-ons: Additional storage, greenery (both real and artificial), and brand manifestations—typically on windows, but other branded elements can be arranged upon request.

Layouts

The layout of your office is just as crucial as its size and location. Some layouts promote productivity, while others can hinder workflow. That’s why it’s important to consider how your business operates and what type of setup will best support your team.

During the setup process, we collaborate with you to discuss layout preferences, ensuring that your space is designed to meet your business requirements.

Office Space

Unlike most serviced office providers, we offer true flexibility when it comes to office space. Whether your team is growing or downsizing, we can adapt to your needs, allowing you to tailor your environment as your business evolves.

We also provide a variety of workspaces to support the dynamic needs of your team, including breakout areas, Zoom pods, co-working spaces, meeting rooms, and boardrooms. This flexibility ensures that your office remains functional and efficient, regardless of how your business changes.

Technology

Setting up an office from scratch can be time-consuming, especially when it comes to technology. That’s where we come in. We streamline the process by providing full tech support, eliminating the hassle of finding reliable internet providers, securing server space, or setting up phone systems.

Each of our meeting room spaces and Zoom pods is fitted with video conferencing capabilities, allowing members to host video-based meetings without needing to worry about setting up cameras or forgetting necessary connecting wires.

Additionally, we offer optional add-ons, such as call handling services, which can be particularly beneficial for business owners looking to optimise their time and resources. Another add-on we can provide is the inclusion of additional screens in an office.

Final Thoughts

Moving into a serviced office can offer your business all the benefits of a professional, ready-to-go workspace without the stress of setting everything up yourself. If you’d like to learn more about serviced offices at WorkWell, get in touch with our team—we’d be happy to discuss how we can support your business.