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Over the past few years, we’ve seen an arms race in commercial office buildings, with landlords and companies pouring money into extravagant amenities. Golf simulators, cafés, bocce ball courts, “work resorts,” and more trendy additions have popped up in offices worldwide, all aimed at attracting tenants or luring employees back to the workplace.
On paper, the idea makes sense. People want to work in an exciting, engaging environment, right? But in practice, many of these over-the-top office amenities end up collecting dust. Sure, they make for great brochure photos, but beyond the first tours and novelty factor, how often does the average employee really use a bocce ball court or a golf simulator? The result is wasted resources on perks that fail to improve how people actually experience their workday.
The Pendulum Problem: Too Sterile vs. Too Distracting
When it comes to office design, many companies swing to extremes. On one end, you find hyper-corporate, sterile spaces that prioritize utility but lack soul. These environments often discourage interaction, limit creativity, and can feel bleak or uninspiring.
On the other end, the overly “fun” workplace is stocked with pool tables, ping pong, and even slides. While these spaces look modern and quirky, they can be more of a distraction than a place to focus and collaborate.
Neither extreme solves the real challenge offices face today. The goal shouldn’t be to dazzle with gimmicks or strip everything down to the bare minimum. Instead, it’s about creating balance.
Designing Spaces That Work
An ideal workspace is one designed with intention. It’s not about chasing trends or filling every corner with something flashy; it’s about enhancing the work experience. What makes spaces truly effective isn’t excessive office amenities but thoughtful design choices that consider the needs of the people working there.
Here’s what these balanced environments prioritize:
- Natural Light
Countless studies show the benefits of natural light on mood, productivity, and health. Spaces designed to make the most of sunlight create better environments for focused work. - Ergonomic, Comfortable Furniture
People shouldn’t have to choose between form and function. Comfortable, ergonomic chairs and workstations support long-term wellbeing while making hours at a desk more productive. - Intentional Layouts
A balance of open areas and private nooks creates flexibility. Team brainstorming sessions need communal spaces, while focused individual work benefits from quieter, more secluded zones. - Community and Connection
Offices that foster casual conversations, regular collaborations, and effortless connections create a sense of belonging, not through gimmicks but by encouraging natural interactions.
The best perk a workplace can offer isn’t a ping pong table or a smoothie bar. It’s a space where people feel inspired, supported, and productive.
Where Thoughtful Design Meets Purpose
We’ve taken this philosophy to heart. Our downtown coworking spaces are designed with balance in mind, offering an environment that feels purposeful, welcoming, and productive. From flexible office solutions to carefully considered communal areas, every decision is centered around how people work best.
We’ve skipped the gimmicks, recognizing that professionals don’t come to work for distractions; they come to work for progress. Instead of flashy office amenities, we focus on the essentials that matter most:
- Bright, naturally lit spaces that energize.
- Comfortable, modern furniture designed for all-day use.
- Flexible layouts that accommodate both focused work and team collaboration.
- A professional, connected environment where community thrives.
Our shared workspaces offer a true alternative to overly corporate offices or too-playful environments. Coco coworking isn’t about doing more for show; it’s about delivering spaces that just work.
See What Balanced Design Looks Like
If you’ve been looking for a better way to work, we invite you to experience Coco coworking for yourself. Whether you need a productivity boost, a refreshing change of scenery, or a professional community to be part of, Coco offers it all without the noise of unnecessary extras.
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