Employee preferences for WFH means workplaces need to utilise office spaces as a tool to connect with staff. In Better Workplaces, AdNews looks at how agencies use office design to entice staff to come in and create a company culture worth staying for.
Adtech company Integral Ad Science (IAS) transformed a space in the historic South Eveleigh Locomotive Workshops in February.
The Eveleigh Locomotive Workshops served as a hub for the production, repair, assembly, and maintenance of locomotive steam engines, over the workshops' century-long history it now stands as an Australian Technology Park home to many industry offices such as Seven Network and Omnicom agencies.
Building exterior.
The IAS' office interiors and design, in partnership with construction company True Projects, were crafted to foster productivity and collaboration while eschewing the typical corporate audience.
Uniquely the office has a Victory bell dedicated to the revenue team, a ritual for the folks to ring after closing a deal.
Victory bell.
Prioritising employee comfort, productivity, and well-being, the open and flexible space fosters spontaneous discussions, brainstorming sessions, and informal meetings.
The main break-out area is situated prominently at the front rather than tucked away at the rear features recreational amenities such as a pool table, ping-pong table, PlayStation 5 as well as a golf putting green and weekly food offerings creating a homely atmosphere where employees can unwind and relax.
Break-out area.
Its innovative design reflects the company's dedication to creating a workspace that prioritises both environmental responsibility and employee satisfaction.
Breakout area.
The office also reflects the company's commitment to sustainability with Kombucha and Cold Brew kegs to reduce single-waste plastic and motion-sensitive lights on the floor to save energy.
The kitchen is stocked with a diverse selection of beverages and a tempting array of breakfast options, condiments, and snacks, the snack bar ensures there's something for everyone to enjoy, whether craving healthy bites or indulgent treats.
Kitchen.
Beyond the meeting rooms named after Australian beverages such as Milo and Bushells, the office also features two collaboration zones which are open and flexible, encouraging spontaneous discussions, brainstorming sessions, and informal meetings.
The Cottee’s collaboration area has comfortable seating and writable surfaces to fosters creativity and idea-sharing among team members.
And for moments when staff need to recharge or unwind or for the “me time” needs, we specifically designed a multipurpose room for staff privacy (i.e. can be used as a mother’s room, religious room, “ME” time).
Foyer.
With just over 20 employees each staff have a designed desk which features stand or sit adjustable tables, seating arrangements encourage interdepartmental collaboration and cross-functionality.
Staff desks.
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