As we are submerged in the Christmas spirit, it seems cruel to list the reasons employees might not be feeling great about their jobs, the economy or the world.
We all know how to solve our problems: cuddle.
What if there’s no humanoid to cuddle with (remembering the newly passed Worker Protection Act 2023 at all times)?
Employers who are dog-friendly have become quite popular in recent years, but designing a building with the mutts as a priority is the next step.
Surveys show that 70% prefer working for companies that permit pets, according to Thirdway Commercial Interior Design. The firm recently designed a new office that “puts dogs at the center of its design in order to help humans thrive”.
The trend isn’t just about cuddling; it has been proven that pets in the workplace boost morale and productivity.
Businesses are taking note of the fact that younger generations prioritize pet-friendly environments. In just the last few years, 5% have introduced such policies.
Thirdway helped Butternut Box to design new offices for a subscription service that sells fresh dog food in London’s White City. The office will boost morale and reduce stress while enhancing teamwork, productivity, and collaboration.
The thought of it brought much needed cheer to Personnel Today. Finally, something else to write about, discuss, or complain about than the national insurance rates of employers.
We’ll tell you more about Butternut Box’s designed-for dogs office. “Inspired from the joy of taking a canine for a stroll in the park the office features vibrant, bold engagement areas alongside serene collaboration spaces.
The office is inspired by the joy of walking a dog in a park. It features vibrant, bold areas for engagement and serene collaboration zones”
This thoughtful design promotes well-being and productivity, with natural finishes and curves throughout the space that mimic an organic flow in a park. It claims that the integration of dog-friendly elements enhances workspace for everyone, even those without pets.
The use of acoustic glass creates a quiet working environment.
In meeting rooms, there are “obscured-glass partitions”, which prevent dogs from interacting.
The “integrated dog spaces” feature places to rest dog beds and dog bowls. This is important for “making furry friends feel comfortable”. The design also includes lead hooks and circular seating areas that have foliage to encourage a sense of community.
Christy McCormick is the brand and creative director of Butternut Box. She tells us that “dogs are at heart of all our decisions.”
Caitlin W. Westgate, Thirdway’s head of creative, says: “We were inspired by the client’s vision to create the ‘greatest place you’ve ever been’ and we have created a space that can bring out all users’ best qualities, two-legged or four-legged.”
This resounding approach to business certainly gave us “paws for thought.” (Drum roll, hi-hat.)