Space is a powerful tool to foster engagement, inspire innovation, and drive productivity. But what exactly does an optimal space look like? In the Science of Space, we explore how the science of intentional design can turn any work environment into a holistic experience.
Terraces may seem like the ultimate workplace amenities, but they actually benefit employers as much as they do employees. Research shows that having access to outdoor spaces during the workday can help employees be more productive and creative.
One body of research is around biophilia, which relates to how humans crave connections to nature and other living things. A recent survey found that people who work in spaces with natural features reported 15 percent higher levels of overall wellbeing, and feeling 6 percent more productive, and 15 percent more creative. Another study in the U.K. and the Netherlands saw a 15 percent increase in employee productivity after sprucing up sparse offices with plants.
Other experiments found benefits in increasing employees’ exposure to natural lighting. A Cornell University study found that just sitting within 10 feet of a window resulted in an 84 percent decrease in eyestrain, headaches, and blurred-vision symptoms.
In addition, companies are increasingly embracing activity-based working; 45 percent of real estate executives anticipate migrating to an activity-based workspace curated for employee effectiveness and future design flexibility, according to the CBRE Americas Occupier Survey 2018. This means providing employees with space types that suit a variety of tasks and working styles—indoors and out.
Take all the research together, and it’s clear that there’s a business case for giving employees access to outdoor terraces. These spaces offer inspiring settings for collaborating and brainstorming and can provide impressive venues for client meetings.
Many WeWork locations around the world provide such outdoor spaces. Take a tour of some of WeWork’s most inviting terraces:
Mexico City, Mexico
A variety of space types welcome employees of all working styles at WeWork Insurgentes Sur 601. There are high-top tables for collaborating, various seating arrangements for informal meetings, and individual hammocks for taking phone calls, reading, or head-down work.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
With views of mountains and lush plants around the perimeter, the terrace at WeWork Helios Seelinger 155 is an ideal place for employees to take a break. The hammock-style seating also offers an informal meeting place for one-on-ones.
Shanghai, China
The bleacher-style seating at WeWork One ITC is perfect for large meetings or presentations. The green wall even has a projection screen.
Buenos Aires, Argentina
If you are looking to get some fresh air the terrace at WeWork Av. Libertador 1000, which boasts a beautiful coastline view, is perfect.
Miami, FL
Cushioned seating with vines running through the bright white pergola creates a soothing blend of nature and backyard-style relaxation at WeWork 2222 Ponce De Leon Blvd.
Barcelona, Spain
With game tables, hanging string lights, and a mix of high-top and casual seating, this terrace at WeWork Glories can double as an event space. The mini-palm plants add the perfect touch of green.
Medellín, Colombia
Astroturf, bucket chairs, and the gorgeous skyscape make this terrace at WeWork Carrera 42 #5 Sur-145 a prime spot for midday meditation.
Bogota, Colombia
There’s no doubt what this outdoor terrace at WeWork Carrera 7 #116-50 was designed for: relaxation. The mini-golf course encourages employees to take a break between meetings. Bonus: The mountains serve as an inspiring backdrop.
Yokohama, Japan
Land meets sea at WeWork Ocean Gate Minatomirai. The terrace’s glass perimeter offers an endless view of the blue waters, while eye-level greenery and bench seating add to the calming vibe. It’s an impressive place to bring visiting clients.
Austin, Texas
Fresh air, blue skies, and modern furnishings offer a great spot for quiet work at WeWork Westview. Green touches add an extra pop of nature.
Vancouver, Canada
Catch city views and cool breezes on the outdoor patio at WeWork Marine Gateway. Employees can walk around the building terrace to get the creative juices flowing.
This article was originally published on August 22, 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.
