Office Amenities that Top Employee Wish Lists

What do employees really want in their workspace? The answers might surprise you.

There have been numerous studies over the years that suggest that employees who are happy are more productive, take sick days less often, and have higher levels of creativity. One way to enhance your employee’s happiness levels is to provide them with a satisfying work environment. But what is it that today’s employees want from their workspace, especially as needs have shifted to accommodate a post-pandemic landscape? Read on to discover the top office amenities that employees in Kelowna and worldwide pine for.

Natural Light

Flickering fluorescent lights are not only unattractive, they can also cause headaches. When you combine that with eye strain from absorbing blue light emitted by computer screens, it’s no wonder that the number one thing employees want in a workspace is natural light. Even modest exposure to daylight through windows can vastly improve people’s health and well-being, from boosting the mood to increasing energy and promoting better sleep.

Attractive Break Areas

Where do your employees go when they want to escape from the bustle of the office or brainstorm with colleagues without bothering the rest of the team? An inviting break area can benefit employees in so many ways. For example, an attractive break area can be a peaceful spot for a moment of calm, a comfortable area to make and take calls, or a gathering place for coffee, lunch, and after-work drinks.

Dining Options

Great restaurants offer employees so much more than just fuel to get them through the day. They also encourage engagement, whether it’s collaboration over a working lunch or a place to celebrate a company milestone with good food and drinks. The ideal office building for most employees would either have dining options in the building or a number of eateries close by, if not both. Check out a list of the Best Places in Kelowna for a Working Lunch all within walking distance of The Block.

Green Spaces

When you’re cooped up in an office all day, nature can provide a much-needed breath of fresh air and do wonders for boosting the mood. Research also suggests that being in or around nature can improve concentration. If given the opportunity, most employees would jump at the chance to work in a building with a rooftop patio, open-air courtyard, or large windows that offer great views of nature.

Ergonomic Office Furniture

Sitting at a desk all day can lead to a variety of health issues including joint problems, bad posture, and stiff muscles. Ergonomically designed desks and chairs are a great investment in your employee’s health and well-being. Plus, the more comfortable your employees are, the better they will be able to focus on their work and the happier they will feel.

Work-Life Balance

One of the most common complaints that modern professionals have is that they don’t have a good balance between their work life and personal life. Juggling the demands of work while trying to pursue personal goals can lead to a lack of motivation and burnout. One way to address this is by promoting physical and emotional health in the workplace, for example, office towers like The Block offer amenities like bike storage, pet-friendly spaces, and on-site gyms.