In a competitive and demanding job market, organizations must offer more than a competitive salary and traditional benefits to recruit and retain top talent. Unique and thoughtful employee amenities play a critical role in enhancing workplace satisfaction, productivity, and loyalty. At NewGround, we understand the transformative power of these amenities and how they can create a thriving and attractive workplace culture. Our work with CFG Bank serves as a prime example of how prioritizing employee amenities can lead to significant organizational benefits.
Our Work: CFG Bank
Employee Amenities: Optional or Critical?
The modern workforce values a holistic work experience that supports physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Offering unique amenities can significantly impact an organization’s ability to speak to those needs. Features like natural lighting, ergonomic furniture, on-site gyms, and wellness rooms contribute to a positive workplace culture and demonstrate an employer’s commitment to employee welfare.
Benefits of Prioritizing Employee Amenities:
Enhanced Well-Being and Productivity: Amenities that promote health and well-being, such as ergonomic furniture and on-site gyms, help reduce workplace-related health issues and increase productivity.
Improved Recruitment and Retention: A workplace full of amenities is a powerful tool for attracting new talent and retaining existing employees, as it reflects an organization’s commitment to creating a supportive and engaging work environment.
Increased Employee Satisfaction: Providing amenities that cater to employees’ needs and preferences leads to higher job satisfaction, which in turn reduces turnover rates and fosters loyalty.
Elements of Effective Employee Amenities
Natural Lighting
Natural lighting is a critical feature in workplace design, as it significantly impacts employees’ mood and productivity. Properly designed lighting systems that maximize natural light can create a vibrant and energetic workplace. Studies have shown that natural light improves sleep, mood, and reduces fatigue, creating a more vibrant and energetic workplace.
Ergonomic Furniture and Design
Ergonomic furniture is essential for preventing workplace-related health issues, such as back pain and repetitive strain injuries. Adjustable desks, comfortable chairs, and footrests are just a few examples of how ergonomic design can create a more comfortable and healthy work environment.
On-Site Gym and Wellness Rooms
Recognizing the importance of physical and mental health, many organizations are incorporating on-site gyms and wellness rooms. These amenities encourage employees to engage in regular physical activity and take breaks for relaxation, thereby reducing stress and boosting overall well-being.
Social and Collaborative Spaces
Social and collaborative spaces foster a sense of community and teamwork. These areas allow employees to connect informally, share ideas, and collaborate effectively, enhancing both creativity and productivity. Break rooms, lounges, and open-plan meeting areas are examples of such spaces.
Unique Engaging Spaces
Incorporating unique and engaging spaces into the workplace can significantly boost employee morale and satisfaction. Game rooms, meditation areas, and even unconventional elements like golf simulators can provide employees with fun and relaxing environments to take breaks from their work.
Flexible and Customizable Spaces
Flexible and customizable office spaces allow employees to adapt their work environment to their personal preferences and needs. Modular wall systems and multi-use spaces can accommodate future growth and changes in the organization, ensuring that the workplace remains functional and relevant.
Hidden Lounges and Specialty Areas
Specialty areas like hidden lounges can add a unique touch to the workplace. Concealed behind artwork or other creative elements, these lounges provide employees with a private and relaxing space to unwind and socialize, contributing to a modern and engaging work environment.
Case Study: CFG Bank
Our collaboration with CFG Bank is a testament to the power of unique amenities in creating an exceptional workplace environment.
The Challenge
NewGround started with a strategy and a Discovery Session with CFG Bank executives and key decision makers. Initially, space projections revealed a cramped environment contrary to CFG Bank’s desire for a spacious, collaborative workspace. We pushed back, encouraging CFG Bank to embrace innovative ideas and fully realize their vision of a Groundbreaking space.
The Solution
After several brainstorming sessions, we crafted a plan incorporating modern technology, employee amenities, and a fun atmosphere. A furniture tour in Chicago showcased the MillerKnoll options, inspiring CFG Bank to create the best possible space for their employees.
Virtual Design and Collaborative Efforts
Using virtual headset technology, CFG Bank could visualize and adjust design options throughout the process. They settled on an industrial yet cozy design, leveraging our retail experience to create a welcoming atmosphere akin to a coffee shop.
Community and Flexibility
Our designers, environmental graphic specialists, and interior design experts worked together to include details reflecting the Baltimore community and employee interests. The space featured modular wall systems, multi-use areas, and local artist graphics. Natural light was carefully integrated, connecting high-traffic areas and illuminating individual workstations.
Unique Employee Engagement
CFG Bank aimed to engage employees on both professional and personal levels. We designed collaborative spaces, break rooms, game rooms, and even a golf simulator. These areas doubled as meeting spaces equipped with advanced technology. A hidden lounge behind a piece of artwork provided a unique, relaxing space for employees, highlighting CFG Bank’s modern approach to style and branding.
Customization and Personalization
By involving staff in customizing their workstations and contributing ideas during the Discovery Session, CFG Bank created an innovative and personalized workspace. This approach fostered both focused work and engaging breaks, resulting in a space that is the envy of the region and a powerful tool for employee retention and recruitment.
For a more detailed look at our work with CFG Bank, please read the full case study here.
Are You Ready for an Office Evolution?
Unique and thoughtful employee amenities are essential for creating a workplace that attracts and retains top talent. By prioritizing elements such as natural lighting, ergonomic furniture, on-site gyms, social and collaborative spaces, and unique engaging areas, organizations can foster a positive and productive workplace culture. At NewGround, we are committed to helping organizations create dynamic and engaging work environments that support employee well-being and professional growth.
About NewGround
NewGround is a leading design and build firm specializing in creating innovative workplace environments. With a focus on employee well-being and productivity, we help organizations transform their spaces into dynamic and engaging workplaces that attract and retain top talent.
For more information on how NewGround can help your organization enhance its workplace amenities, contact us directly.
