Across all industries, employers are doubling down on their investments in office space. By providing a flexible, intentionally designed office that also includes amenities to make the workday more enjoyable and productive, companies can use their space as an asset to improve the employee experience.
While an outdoor terrace or a cool café area can’t fuel success on their own, office amenities can reinforce employee-first culture, increase engagement, and boost productivity. There’s a lot of research behind how taking breaks, participating in physical activity, and socializing can help staffers recharge, think more creatively, and build meaningful connections with one another.
For instance, providing opportunities to take active breaks (whether it’s getting a workout or putting a round of mini golf) can help stimulate blood flow, which in turn can help employees power through projects. One study found that the top 10 percent of productive employees work an average of 52 minutes and then take a 17-minute break.
Here’s a look at amenities at WeWork office locations around the world, which are designed to enhance the employee experience and help people do their best work.
An exercise room in Beijing
Because exercise results in so many benefits, including improving thinking skills while reducing stress and anxiety, many employers offer on-site fitness rooms, like this one at WeWork Baifu International Building where people can get in a quick burst of cardio.
A rock climbing wall in Seoul
The common area at WeWork Seolleung takes physical activity to the next level with its rock climbing wall.
A swimming pool in San Diego
At WeWork Aventine, employees can get in a few exercise laps before or after work. The poolside seating areas also offer an inspiring spot for informal meetings and employee get-togethers.
Valet parking in Monterrey
Some office amenities are simply about convenience. Valet parking adds a hospitable touch to the employee and visitor experience at WeWork Boulevard Antonio L. Rodríguez 1888.
Hammocks in São Paulo
Employees at WeWork Atílio Innocenti 165 can take a load off in these comfy hanging hammocks. Couch people are covered too, in this cozy corner of the office.
An outdoor terrace with mini golf in Bogota
The outdoor terrace—complete with mini golf course—at WeWork Carrera 7 #116-50 offers employees fresh air and a respite from their desks.
Dart games in Seoul
A little game of darts with coworkers can help employees at WeWork Samseong Station find their focus.
Bike racks in Tokyo
Biking to work can help employees start the workday full of energy. That’s why WeWork Nogizaka offers a bicycle rack wall for cycling commuters.
Ping pong in Busan
A game of ping pong at WeWork Seomyeon gives employees a welcome afternoon break.
A pool table in Mexico City
A little friendly competition can stimulate some employee bonding. WeWork Arcos Bosques features a pool table in the break area to cue up a bit of fun between projects.
This article was originally published on November 5, 2019, and has been updated throughout by the editors.
Dawn Papandrea is a freelance writer who covers work, personal finance, and higher education. Her writing has appeared in numerous publications, including Family Circle and monster.com. Follow her on Twitter.
