The world of workplace pods is vast – from ultra-acoustic focus booths to agile phone units that move as fast as teams do. Before jumping into specs or purchases, it’s crucial to understand what your client or your coworking space really needs from these flexible, enclosed spaces.

Below are five expert-level considerations that ensure you’re recommending the right pod — one that aligns with the project’s goals, budget, and brand story.

Plus we share some of our favorite pods on the market from:

 

 

Mind the Airflow

Pods can feel stuffy fast. Confirm whether ventilation is active (fans) or passive (vents), and align with HVAC teams to maintain comfort standards.

Check the Decibel Data

Go beyond “soundproof” labels. On certified acoustic reports, look for dB(A) reduction ratings.

Don’t Forget ADA & Clearance Requirements

Ensure door widths, turning radii, and threshold heights meet code before finalizing layouts and purchases.

Finish Coordination Matters

Select finishes that complement your palette; pods should integrate seamlessly, not stand apart.

Think Beyond Installation Day

Clarify maintenance, warranty, and tech servicing responsibilities and resources upfront – especially for pods with lighting or ventilation systems.

Leading Pods in the Market

ROOM Phone Booth by ROOM

The ROOM Phone Booth, along with the full suite of ROOM’s modular office products, has received a certified autism resource badge from the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) supporting neurodiversity in the workspace. The Phone Booth is designed to reduce sensory overload, providing a calm, controlled environment perfect for neurodiverse individuals, facilitating concentration and reducing stress in dynamic workplace settings.

Sustainability Highlights

All ROOM products are built out of recycled materials and replace multiple cycles of construction. We’ve saved tens of millions of plastic bottles from reaching a landfill. By thinking cyclically, we’re helping to reduce the near 600 million tons of construction and demolition waste created each year. Plus, our products have been tested for over 10k chemicals, and have met rigorous low-emissions standards supporting healthy office environments.

Key Features

• Exterior Dimensions: W 41.5” x D 43.8” x H 88.8”  
• Installation time: 60 minutes or less. One tool. Two team members.
• Acoustic rating in dB: Three layers of sound insulation made from recycled materials, including 100% natural breathable wool and no-dye-added acoustic felt, reduce noise by 30 decibels.
• Lighting details: An overhead LED light strip powered by a motion-activated smart sensor ensures bright ideas don’t stay in the dark.
• Air ventilation details: Each booth comes equipped with two ultra-quiet fans that wholly replenish air every 60 seconds. Discreet airflow inlet constantly pulls in fresh air while two ceiling fans push warm air out, keeping the air inside fresh at all times.

Top 3 Customizable Options

• Choice of a crisp White Phone Booth exterior with an off-white powder coated metal or sleek Black Grey powder coated metal exterior. Both “Light” and “Dark” Phone Booths come with oak accents.
• Each Phone Booth is flat-packed for seamless delivery and assembly. Your choice of DIY or professional assembly available. No hardwiring required. All it takes is one tool, one hour, and two team members.
• Available with Expedited Delivery options for quick shipping.

*Pricing depends on location. Contact ROOM for pricing.

LEARN MORE

hushFree.S.Hybrid Pod by Hushoffice

The hushFree.S.Hybrid acoustic pod is designed for longer video conferences, meetings and online presentations. The booth comes standard with a comfortable free-standing sofa and ergonomic desk. It allows for longer individual work or video meetings. The aesthetically designed LED side lighting of the user’s face ensures that he or she is even more visible during video meetings. HushAssistant – touchscreen module for changing to the color and intensity of the light (2200-6500 K), the speed of the fans, and gives the possibility to manage the reservations.

Sustainability Highlights

Lightweight cardboard boxes that can be easily recycled; environmentally conscious component suppliers; wood-based components with an Environmental Product Declaration (ISO 14025), PEFC Certified (PEFC/04-31-2920).

Key Features

• Exterior Dimensions (W x D x H): 48.97 x 35.43 x 90.53 in
• Installation time: about 2 hours by two persons
• Acoustic rating in dB: 30,2 dB according to ISO 23351-1:2020
• Lighting details: LED ceiling light 20W / 4000 K, lm – 2300; lux – min. 300 / medium 500 / max. 700. Adjusted in the range of 2200 – 6500K. Integrated 3.5W LED strips x2 (adjustable, 4000k).
• Air ventilation details: 2 fans x 80 m3/h with a maximum airflow 94 CFM. Total air exchange 39 seconds, 92 l/s.

Top 3 Customizable Options

• Inside panels available in 8 timeless colors, and body color available in two options
• Screen  brackets
• Occupancy sign

*Pricing is individualized and depends on region and product configuration.

LEARN MORE

CALL-1 by JUUNOO

Whether you need privacy for a call or a moment to recharge, the Call 1 booth provides a secure, quiet space for clear and uninterrupted conversations and video meetings. With a streamlined design and minimal silhouette, JUUNOO Pods blend naturally into any workspace.

Sustainability Highlights

Designed with circularity in mind, every booth is built to be reused or reconfigured, helping create a truly sustainable workspace. Our materials are sourced in Belgium and selected for durability, recyclability, and a low environmental impact.

Key Features

• Exterior Dimensions (W x D x H): 44” × 43 3/4” × 89 3/8”
• Installation time: 45 minutes
• Acoustic rating: 30 db
• Lighting details: Adjustable light dimmer up to 700 lm
• Air ventilation details: Multiple fans fully refresh air every 60 seconds

Top Customizable Options

Our standard exterior finishes come in black or white, with full customization available by request.

*Starting Price 5495 USD

LEARN MORE

Om Pod by National

Kolo 1 Pod by National

Designed to offer a choice for privacy in open settings, Kolo Pods are an ideal solution for working, learning, and healing spaces. Employees and guests appreciate spaces that can flex to support focus as well as collaboration. Kolo Pods give your team control over their environment, with no contractor required. Every pod (except our ADA-compliant model) is equipped with easy-to-use rollers, so you can move them anywhere in your office, even after installation.

Closing Thoughts

As offices evolve into ecosystems of focus, collaboration, and choice, pods are becoming an essential design tool — but not all pods are created equal. Taking into account the right considerations upfront ensures that your solution delivers on comfort, compliance, and culture – not just square footage.

The post Specifying Pods Like a Pro appeared first on Work Design Magazine.

Meet Tango

With hundreds of customers across more than 140 countries, Tango enables the future makers in workplace and retail, by providing solutions across four strategic areas: workplace, energy & sustainability, real estate, and projects & maintenance.

TANGO WORKPLACE delivers the power of knowing and the impact of acting — enabling data-driven decisions that align real estate with business goals.

Who Tango is Built For

Industries: Tango is an ideal solution for financial services, tech, pharmaceuticals, professional services — where space is expensive, and talent experience is critical.​

​Key Personas​:

• VP/Head/Director of Corporate Real Estate​
• Director of Workplace Strategy​
• Workplace Ops / Space Planning Leads

Within organizations that:​

• Have large, complex, or global real estate portfolios​
• Struggle with fragmented tools and lack visibility into real-time space use​
• Are actively navigating hybrid work and portfolio right-sizing​
• Need to make strategic workplace decisions quickly and at scale​
• Have a mandate to improve both space efficiency and employee experience​

Inspiration for the Solution

Our team has been in your shoes. We know that mastering the rhythm of workplace transformation requires more than just the right steps – it takes experience, intuition, and a deep understanding of how people move through spaces. With years of hands-on expertise, we help organizations choreograph seamless workplace management strategies that blend technology with the human element. Because success isn’t just about solutions and platforms – it’s about knowing when to lead, when to follow, and how to create an environment where everyone moves in sync.

Standout Features

• Native Occupancy Intelligence: built-in, real-time occupancy analytics
• Unified Suite: integrated tools across space planning, workplace operations, and analytics​
• Strategic and Operational: designed for both high-level decision-making and day-to-day execution​
• Actionable Insights: Enables data-driven actions, not just reporting​
• Deep Expertise in Workplace: A team that has been in their shoes, plus a decade of AI and workplace-focused innovation

Key Benefits

Tango Workplace empowers organizations to make faster, smarter decisions about space and portfolio strategy by providing real-time insights and actionable data. It helps identify inefficiencies and opportunities as they arise, enabling proactive management of the workplace. With agile tools that enhance flexibility, the platform supports a better employee experience while ensuring that real estate investments are aligned with actual business needs and goals.

What Clients Love Most About Tango Workplace

Clients value Tango Workplace for its ability to help them create high-demand space types with measurable performance, rightsize their portfolios for cost savings, avoid unnecessary expenses, and densify effectively—without sacrificing employee satisfaction.

Want to Learn More?

Contact Us | Request a Demo | Download the Factsheet | Read our Blog | Workplace | Real Estate | Energy & Sustainability | Projects & Maintenance  | Follow Us on LinkedIn |

Meet us in-person at IFMA World Workplace and CoreNet in the Fall!

This article was made in partnership with Tango. 

The post Tango Workplace: Move Seamlessly from Insight to Action with Meaningful Data appeared first on Work Design Magazine.

Inspired at NeoCon 2025 by their sample home office, executive office, kitchen and library settings to better show solutions as they would be used in real life, we engaged interior designers and specifiers from Arcadis to shop all of Mockett’s current offerings. Here’s what they would include in their next projects!

Completing the Workplace Experience

Tab Drawer Pull

A timeless and distinctive drawer pull design that’s easy to apply and goes well with all furniture and cabinetry, DP3 is our most popular series. Custom tab pull lengths are easy and economical to manufacture so you can have the perfect size for your application.

What Designers Are Saying: 

I enjoy the slim profile and finish selections offered in this line.

Always love a sleek and minimal tab pull! We typically use this at all our millwork cabinets. Have always wished for this to come in an ADA option.

Y-Table Leg

Folded steel creates the outer half of a traditional square leg, then splits in different directions at the top to make a Y-shape to connect to the outer edges of the top plate, hence the name Y-Leg. All the allure of a basic square tube leg design with only a fraction of the material cost. Its hollowed center leaves the rest to the imagination to complete the square, giving it an interesting design twist and a fresh new take on a traditional style.

What Designers Are Saying: 

I was not aware Mockett offered table legs, so I would be mindful for my next project to consider this as an option for a custom coffee/side table!

Round Top Drawer Pull

Classic design? Contemporary design? You decide…this exciting pull will go with either style. Use with traditional designs for a bold striking accent or use with modern or eclectic interiors for an understated pop that really stands out. That unmatched versatility is what makes this gorgeous handle the go-to resource for any design.

What Designers Are Saying: 

Good, simple pull for when a project must have ADA pulls

Ridged Door Stop

Elevate your space with a tastefully understated doorstop, chic yet incredibly functional. This compact hardware accessory enhances a traditionally practical piece by featuring intricate ridged detailing, adding a touch of modern flair to its robust design.

What Designers Are Saying: 

I like a simple, low-profile door stop and this one looks nice. The ridges add a nice texture.

Powering Up: Charging Solutions

Medium Flip-up Power Grommet

Wireless Charging has grown exponentially in the past few years. This versatile power grommet has two electrical outlets rated that flip up with a simple touch to the cover and then hide away when finished. Flange sits nearly flush with the surface. Easy to install into any type of furniture for convenient power and data access on demand.

What Designers Are Saying: 

Always looking for ways to disguise power under the desk, and I like the flexibility of being able to select which inputs you can add to this system.

Undermount Power Unit

With our world today, our smartphones is a must so this invisible under desk wireless charger is such a neat way to incorporate a seamless integration into any furniture. Not only does it allow for a clean work surface, it’s extremely convenient and a cool feature to have in the work space.

What Designers Are Saying: 

We usually have power integrated in the furniture from the manufacturer when we do the furniture package, but this is a great option for undermount power that needs to be added at a later time.

New in Grommets

Deep Trash Grommet

Trash Management Grommet Liners are easy to install, easy to remove and clean, and protect your furniture from messy spills. Line your trash drops with commercial grade stainless steel grommets to dress up the opening with a beautiful complementary trash ring that will add a sophisticated charm to your furniture and extend the life of your counter top or receptacle housing.

What Designers Are Saying: 

I could see myself using this trash grommet for my projects as an equipment requires an 8” opening for coffee beans to be dropped in the trash below.

Conference AV Power Pop-Up Grommet

The motorized, pop-up power tower features a glass wireless charging plate that lifts at the push of a button to reveal a power station. Access wireless charging capabilities at any time. A small gap surrounding the glass plate lets users plug their devices into the recessed power center and keep cables hidden and tucked away when the unit is closed. Store your cords within the unit and keep them out of sight. Perfect for conference room tables or office workstations.

What Designers Are Saying: 

I could see myself using this on a project with a larger conference table as it can accommodate all the outlets & inputs a conference room would need for AV.

Solid Brass Desk Grommet

Solid brass grommets are ideal for fine executive desks and credenzas, conference tables and computer stations. Why brass? Unlike cheaper and shoddier metals, brass polishes and plates much better than steel, resulting in a far superior finish.

What Designers Are Saying: 

I like how this grommet is a sleek option for any table top power needs. The metal finish makes it feel more sophisticated compared to plastic. I would use this at a reception desk.

Organization Tools

Single Hook Coat Hook

Simple and functional, just a single hook with good style. A sleek wall‑mounted hook with a minimalist design. Crafted from sturdy metal, it projects 1½″ and features a 2⅜″ diameter base. With a welded threaded screw for easy self-installation (no extra hardware needed) and a 30 lb weight capacity (with anchor), it’s ideal for hanging coats, hats, bags, and more.

What Designers Are Saying: 

I have spec’d this on projects before on the back of office doors. It’s a plus that it comes in chrome and matte black to match any adjacent hardware or demountable systems.

Robe Hook

Combine traditional elegance with contemporary flair. This fine hook with bold, geometric forms brings structure and strength to every design space. With refined hints of industrial style, the Modernist Robe Hook sets the standard for quality, innovation, and timeless appeal.

What Designers Are Saying: 

I like the simplicity of this hook to use as a coat hanger on the back of office doors or even on a toilet partition.

Want More?

Follow the Mockett for the latest New Product Introductions:

Website | Facebook | Pinterest | YouTube | Instagram | Contact Us

Special thanks to Arcadis’ Lisa Ferguson & Morgan Sandberg

This roundup is sponsored by Mockett.

The post Top Architectural Hardware Products by Mockett appeared first on Work Design Magazine.

These leading office space management solutions are built to help you cut costs, right-size real estate, and increase employee engagement—backed by real-time data and powerful automation. Whether you’re optimizing underused space, coordinating fluctuating hybrid schedules, striving to enhance the employee experience (in physical or virtual spaces) or creating a more collaborative environment, these platforms deliver the insights and tools you need to take decisive, measurable action.

We’re taking a close look at the following brand solutions:

Tango Workplace

Tango’s workplace solution meets the dynamic needs of the hybrid workplace. Trusted by global enterprises, their workplace solution supports portfolio strategy, space management, lease accounting & administration, and sustainability management. With hybrid work becoming the norm, Tango’s office reservation and visitor management tools are now essential in modern, flexible work environments.

Key Features:

• Improve access to shared office resources with a comprehensive reservation system that accounts of all types of reservable spaces & assets.
• Leverage reliable, accurate data to cut unnecessary costs and create an optimal workplace experience.
• Plan, monitor, analyze, and allocate your space using best-in-class space management software.
• Register, track, and report on everything coming into your facilities with a cutting-edge visitor management solution.

Bonus Resource: Guide to Hybrid Work in 2025

Modo Workplace

Modo Workplace transforms office management by streamlining space utilization, enhancing collaboration, and creating a seamless hybrid work experience. With intelligent booking, real-time insights, and automated resource management, it ensures offices are dynamic, efficient, and employee-centric. By reducing friction and maximizing engagement, Modo empowers organizations to make the workplace a destination—not an obligation.

Key Features 

• Empowers Flexible & Intentional Office Attendance
  Employees can seamlessly book their preferred workspaces in seconds—whether for a single day or weeks in advance—ensuring they have the flexibility to plan their in-office time around collaboration and productivity.
• Boosts Collaboration & Team Connection
  With My CircleTM, employees can see when and where their colleagues are working, book spaces near teammates, and sync schedules for better in-person collaboration—maximizing productivity while strengthening workplace relationships.
• Simplifies Space Management & Optimization
  Organizations can easily customize office layouts, manage bookings, and gain valuable insights into space utilization trends—ensuring an efficient, well-optimized workplace that evolves with employees’ needs.
• Enhances Employee Experience & Productivity
  By reducing friction in space reservations, providing automated reminders, and enabling easy modifications, Modo’s solution ensures employees spend less time managing logistics and more time focusing on meaningful work.
• Creates a Seamless, Tech-Enabled Workplace
  With integrations for IT support, facility management, and digital access, Modo unifies the hybrid workplace experience—allowing employees to navigate, book, and engage with office resources effortlessly from one centralized platform.

Modo Workplace takes the hassle out of managing office spaces—bringing everything into one app for a smoother, smarter, and more seamless workplace experience!

Bonus Resource: Elevating Employee Experience in the Workplace EGUIDE

Eptura

Eptura connects people, places, and assets in one integrated worktech platform, so your organization can drive more value. Their tools give you unparalleled visibility over your work environment, so you can better understand how people are using your space while overseeing the management of your facilities and assets.

Key Features

• Digital Twins
  Make an interactive floorplan of every office so you can plot out all work areas, resources, and amenities in your building — from emergency equipment and signage to furniture and shared technology.
• Strategic Space Planning
  Use drag-and-drop tools to visualize moves and dashboards to understand how teams will fit into new or reconfigured spaces.
• Move Management
  Plan and manage moves for individuals or teams, within a space or to new locations. Create and track move tickets, see move schedules, set up moving labels, and automatically notify employees when their space is ready.
• Usage Monitoring
  identify space occupancy patterns with peak utilization and frequency trends to receive an accurate overview about how employees are interacting with the space.
• Real Estate Planning
  Track, manage, and evaluate your global commercial real estate portfolio. Utilize our easy-to-view dashboards or reports to better understand lease costs, expiration dates, and more.

Bonus Resource: Workplace Innovator Podcast

HubStar Connect

HubStar Connect improves space management by making hybrid workplaces more intentional and data-driven. This workplace experience software helps organizations optimize space utilization while boosting purposeful collaboration through intelligent desk booking, room scheduling, and team coordination capabilities, creating environments where employees actively want to be, backed by real-time occupancy insights.

5 Key Features

• Intelligent Desk Booking: Employees can always find and reserve ideal workspaces based on team attendance, neighborhood assignments and work preferences
• Purposeful Attendance Coordination: Shows when teammates will be in the office, making it easier to coordinate schedules, reduce wasted space and create vibrant, well-utilized work environments.
• Office Event Advertising: Promote company gatherings, team meet-ups, and social activities directly within the booking interface, driving intentional space usage and creating a community-centered workplace culture.
• Real-Time Space Utilization Data: Provides workplace managers with accurate occupancy metrics to identify underutilized areas, consolidate space on quieter days and make data-driven decisions about space allocation.
• AI-Powered Space Recommendations: Connect’s virtual assistant mathces employees with the right spaces, whether for collaboration, focus work, or social connection

Bonus Resource: HubStar Webinars On Demand

OpenBlue Workplace

OpenBlue Workplace, formerly FMS:Workplace, is a modular, flexible, easy-to use Integrated Workplace Management Solution (IWMS) that enables organizations to manage, analyze and report on facilities and real estate operation and maintenance (O&M) information. Access to accurate data means facilities and real estate professionals can deliver better customer service, reduce costs and improve the performance of their facilities portfolio-wide.

5 Key Features

• Efficiently allocate, utilize, and optimize physical spaces, meeting rooms, and workstations.
• Maintain and manage the upkeep of facilities, assets, and equipment.
• Effectively allocate and manage resources such as furniture, equipment, and amenities.
• Gather and analyze data related to space utilization, occupancy patterns, and resource allocation.
• Monitor and manage energy consumption, track sustainability initiatives, and reduce environmental impact.

Bonus Resource: The Hybrid Hangout Podcast

The post Smarter Workplace Decisions Start with Smarter Space Management Tools appeared first on Work Design Magazine.

Stylio Padfolio/Resume Portfolio Folder

A sleek faux leather organizer ideal for interviews and meetings, featuring a refillable writing pad, pen holder, and multiple pockets for documents.

• Price: Under $25
• Buy on Amazon: Stylio Padfolio

Clever Fox Planner

This planner doubles as a productivity journal, helping users manage time effectively with weekly/monthly scheduling, goal setting, and 150 colorful stickers.

• Price: Under $25
• Buy on Amazon: Clever Fox Planner

Portable Handheld Fabric and Garment Steamer with Lint Remover & Fabric Brush

A compact steamer to keep clothes lint and wrinkle-free, essential for maintaining a professional appearance without the need for an ironing board.

• Price: Approximately $55
• Buy on Amazon: Electrolux Steamer

Adjustable Laptop Stand

An ergonomic stand that elevates the laptop to eye level, reducing neck strain and improving posture during long work hours.

• Price: Approximately $27
• Buy on Amazon: Adjustable Laptop Stand

Nextmug – Self-Heating Coffee Mug

A temperature-controlled mug that keeps beverages warm for hours, perfect for coffee or tea lovers during work sessions.

• Price: Approximately $100
• Buy on Amazon: Nextmug Self-Heating Mug

Sony WH-1000XM5 Noise-Canceling Headphones

Top-tier headphones offering exceptional sound quality and noise cancellation, ideal for focusing in both office and home environments.

• Price: Approximately $348
• Buy on Amazon: Sony WH-1000XM5

LapGear Home Office Lap Desk

A portable lap desk with a built-in mouse pad and phone holder, enabling comfortable work from couches or beds.

• Price: Approximately $33
• Buy on Amazon: LapGear Home Office Lap Desk

MATEIN Laptop Backpack

This backpack is TSA friendly with a USB charging port, anti theft carryon Flight approved staple that is perfect when traveling for work.

• Price: Approximately $18
• Buy on Amazon: Laptop Backpack

Echo Dot (5th Gen) with Eero Mesh Wi-Fi Router

A smart speaker that also functions as a Wi-Fi extender, enhancing connectivity and providing voice-controlled assistance.

• Price: Approximately $90
• Buy on Amazon: Echo Dot with Eero

reMarkable Note-Taking Tablet

Sort your notes and documents with folders and tags, write directly on PDFs, and convert handwritten notes to typed text.

• Price: Approximately $449
• Buy on Amazon: reMarkable Tablet

GUNNAR Campbell Blue Light Blocking Glasses

Premium Blue Light Blocking Computer Glasses that feature patented lens technology blocks harmful blue light and 100% UV.

• Price: Approximately $67
• Buy on Amazon: GUNNAR Campbell Glasses

Price suggestions listed above are as of time of publication 5/2/25. The list above is curated from the Work Design team. Any purchases made through the links may earn Work Design a commission.

The post Top Gifts for College Grads Entering the Workforce in 2025 appeared first on Work Design Magazine.

In today’s evolving work environment, prioritizing employee wellness is no longer optional—it’s a necessity. Companies recognize the benefits of fostering a healthier, more engaged workforce, but not all have the luxury of a dedicated wellness room. Below are creative ways to integrate wellness and rejuvenation spaces into offices that lack separate rooms for these purposes.

Creating a wellness-focused environment in a space-constrained office requires strategic planning. Here are essential considerations for getting started.

Identify Underutilized Spaces

• Look for areas that can be temporarily or permanently repurposed, such as:
  • Quiet corners
  • Unused meeting rooms
  • Hallway nooks
  • Lounge areas
  • Rooftops or balconies

Prioritize Acoustic Privacy

• Use noise-canceling partitions, sound-absorbing panels, or strategic placement to minimize disruptions.
• Consider white noise machines or calming background music to enhance relaxation.

Incorporate Biophilic Design

• Bring in natural elements such as plants, moss walls, and water features to create a calming atmosphere.
• Maximize access to natural light or use full-spectrum LED lighting to mimic daylight.

Flexible & Modular Furniture

• Use movable screens, lightweight chairs, and modular seating that can be easily reconfigured.
• Integrate comfortable, ergonomic seating options such as reclining or rocking chairs or cushioned floor seating.

Multisensory Elements

• Consider elements that engage multiple senses for a holistic wellness experience:
  • Sight: Soft lighting, nature-inspired art, or digital aquariums
  • Sound: Gentle music, nature sounds, or meditation apps
  • Touch: Textured fabrics, heated seating, or massage chairs
  • Scent: Essential oil diffusers with calming scents like lavender or eucalyptus

Technology Integration for Wellness

• Provide access to meditation and mindfulness apps via tablets or digital kiosks.
• Include charging stations to encourage device-free relaxation while ensuring connectivity when needed.
• Offer guided breathing exercises or VR relaxation experiences for an immersive retreat.
• Have tech free spaces altogether!

Encourage Movement & Mindfulness

• Designate areas for yoga, stretching, or guided meditation.
• Use standing desks with integrated footrests for passive movement.
• Provide balance boards or wobble stools to encourage active sitting.

Hydration & Healthy Snacking

• Set up hydration stations with infused water, herbal teas, and fresh fruit.
• Include a small pantry stocked with healthy snacks like nuts, dried fruit, and protein bars.

Aromatherapy & Air Quality Enhancements

• Use air purifiers to maintain fresh, clean air.
• Introduce aromatherapy diffusers to promote relaxation and mental clarity.
• Consider integrating a small indoor garden with air-purifying plants.

Implementation Pro Tips

• Pilot Test: Start with a small pop-up wellness space and gather employee feedback before scaling up.
• Lead By Example: Invite the internal influencers to a preview of the space and learn from their feedback.
• Regular Maintenance: Keep the area clean and well-stocked with necessary wellness items.

• Scheduling & Access: Use a reservation system or signage to maintain order and ensure fair usage.
• Employee Engagement: Encourage employees to participate in wellness activities and provide incentives for usage.

Want more inspiration?

Check out these project profiles which feature special spaces.

Energizing and Engaging Employees at Bessemer Venture Partners

Brining the Outside in at Anadolu Agency in Istanbul 

Celebrating and Supporting Employees at Indeed in Austin, TX

The post 9 Key Strategies for PopUp Wellness & Rejuvenation Spaces appeared first on Work Design Magazine.

Fringe 2.0 by National

The latest evolution of Fringe 2.0 brings even more versatility, with newly developed two- and three-seat units, elegant curved options, and multiple back heights—all with a standard clean-out for effortless maintenance.

LEARN MORE

Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman by Herman Miller

We’re loving the fresh twist on an icon—now available with bamboo-based upholstery. This highly renewable material maintains the luxurious feel worthy of the Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman while reducing its carbon footprint by up to 35%. Sustainable style has never looked so good.

BUY NOW

Jasper Sofa by King Living

It’s no surprise that Jasper is a two-time Good Design Award winner. With a steel frame that flexes to support endless configurations and a Postureflex® Seating System inspired by the precision of European automotive suspension, this lounge delivers next-level comfort with effortless style.

LEARN MORE

The Acoustic Lounge – Duo

From the brand that redefined phone booths, ROOM introduces Duo—a two-seater sofa designed for focus. Wrapped in 100% custom-dyed polyester with built-in acoustic insulation, it’s a stylish sanctuary for distraction-free work sessions.

LEARN MORE

Avalon Chaise by KFI Studios

The sculpted curves of the Avalon chaise invite full-body relaxation while keeping your head comfortably engaged—perfect for a moment of repose between meetings. And now, with a new Lounge Chair version, the invitation just got even better.

LEARN MORE

Rambler by Global

Rambler is a playful series of ottomans designed for collaborative and community spaces in workplace, education and select healthcare environments. Plus, an optional moisture barrier enhances durability and supports advanced cleaning protocols—because style and sanitation should always go hand in hand.

LEARN MORE

Vooom by Via Seating

LEARN MORE

Matic Sofa by Knoll

This sculptural sofa is more than just a statement piece—it’s a masterclass in flexibility. With a uniquely curved back and an internal mechanism that adjusts for customized comfort, Matic effortlessly shifts between relaxation and conversation. Each side of the backrest bends into two additional positions, offering dynamic support with effortless style.

LEARN MORE

Which Lounge collections are you loving? Tell michelle.weiss@workdesign.com who we should feature next.

The post Love at First Sit: 8 Swoon-Worthy Lounge Pieces appeared first on Work Design Magazine.

In an era that values adaptability and wellbeing, the workplace is constantly evolving toward a more user-centric environment. Prioritizing the wellness of workers in the workplace can help attract employees, improve retention rates, and enhance the quality of work. As companies face the challenge of incentivizing employees to return to the office, the design community is one step ahead in a key design strategy. Inclusive Design ensures that the workplace is both functional and supportive of every individual’s physical and cognitive needs. An inclusive workplace environment helps prioritize wellbeing, empowers employees, and enables the best work. However, achieving an inclusive workplace does not have one universal solution. 

As a soon-to-be graduate, I have one suggestion that may enhance the quality of our inclusive environments. Upon researching active seating for students for a recent K-12 studio project, it was interesting to learn that children had increased attention spans and performed better when fidgeting in class. Studies show that when fidgets are used as a tool, students with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism, anxiety, or other conditions can relieve stress and enhance focus.

These findings led me to ask the question: What about adults with ADHD?  

Self-regulating as an adult with ADHD, ADD, OCD, or Autism in the workplace is far from normalized. Stagnant office seating has been linked to a lack of productivity, stress, and poor health, like heart disease and diabetes. However, active furniture in the workplace can help relieve anxiety, improve concentration, memory, and physical health, and help adults with ADHD improve their performance at work. Active seating and movement-friendly furniture, for example, ball seats, height-adjustable desks, swings, and rocking chairs, have many physical and cognitive benefits that we are missing out on. 

The ‘fidget factor’ can affect any adult, child, or person with a cognitive disorder. With 20% – 37% of adults with ADHD, movement-friendly furniture may be a solution to prioritizing worker health and enabling the best work. By encouraging movement in a static work environment, we can incentivize the return to the office and harness workers’ full potential. 

So, I ask the design community: Why limit inclusive Design?

Haley also joined the WDM team in rounding up fidget-friendly and mobile minded furniture solutions that are ready for specification now. Enjoy our roundup below.

Willow by KFI Studios

No need to be confined to working at traditional desks and cubicles. Willow is a pull-up table, formed from bent plywood, with a C-shaped design that allows you to use it while working on sofas, modular seating, chairs, and benches.

LEARN MORE

Rock by Allsteel

Designed with Motion in Mind: Celebrating fidget behavior, Rock’s unique shape supports an upright posture preferred for work with a rocking base that encourages action and motion.

 LEARN MORE

BuzziBalance Board by Buzzispace

Move your body, move your mind. While standing, BuzziBalance Board becomes a muscle activator. As you balance on the wooden-carved rocking board for a few moments, your mind and body are awakened.

LEARN MORE

Basketball by Thinkspace

Basketball is an ergonomic seating furniture that activates the abdominal, side and back muscles. It can help anyone who has back problems and is a good complement to the office chair. PRO TIP: It even returns to center when you get up!

LEARN MORE

Passport Work Table by Herman Miller

Passport (with wheels) combines mobility and adjustability to support an individual’s unique needs to accomplish work in any situation, whether serving as a quick place for touchdown work, offering a surface that can encourage movement throughout the day or even being pulled up for a small group discussion.

LEARN MORE

Rokkitt Active Perch Stool by HPFi

Rokkitt is an adjustable, pivot and swivel perch providing active, rocking motion. Designed to offer the ideal height active seat to accompany most table and desk heights and perfect for sit-to-stand work areas. PRO TIP: The swivel seat enables rocking motion side to side or front to back.

LEARN MORE

Astro by Via Seating

Astro delivers a unique, interactive sitting experience. The comfortable, nest like seat is ideal for some quiet reflection or simply taking some time out. Plus you can even sit criss-cross apple sauce in it. PRO TIP: Play with its rock, swivel and sway motion.

LEARN MORE

Wilder Rocker by Interwoven

We found this product in the healthcare category! Wilder brings a sense of warmth and sophistication to community spaces, while keeping the rigorous needs of the workplace in mind.

LEARN MORE

Swing Tables by Duffy London

Bring the movement of being on a playground into the boardroom, breakout spaces, or even outdoors with the original Duffy London Swing Table. Seating options for 8, 10 and 12 guests available. Bonus Tip: It’s easy to vaccum underneath the seats!

LEARN MORE

The post Fidget to Focus: Unlocking Workplace Potential with Inclusive Furniture appeared first on Work Design Magazine.

With employees on varying schedules, it’s more important than ever to understand how they are interacting with your spaces. Space occupancy technology will support your workplace with data-informed answers to critical planning questions. When used correctly, this technology can inform new space and design decisions, collect information crucial to energy savings, analyze how amenities are being used, inform cleaning schedules, enhance the overall employee experience, and more.

Below we’ve outlined the top space occupancy technology on the market so you can find the tool that’s best for your organization.

Robin

Robin is the workplace management platform that streamlines workplace processes for enhanced in-office productivity. With industry-leading desk and room booking software, alongside intelligent workplace automation and analytics, our platform empowers your employees to reserve anything they need at the office. Since 2014, thousands of global organizations have trusted Robin for sustainable and scalable workplace optimization.

Get to Know the Technology

• Automatic desk check-in via WiFi
• QR code stickers for desk check-ins
• QR codes on room displays
• Software for conference room displays for on-the-spot booking, check-in and abandoned room protection
• Ability to join the office to signal intent of going to the office (with or without booking a desk or conference room) via both mobile and desktop
• Comprehensive workplace analytics, including:
  • Floor usage trends and predictions
  • Desk and space usage, including check-in % vs. reservations made v. total availability
  • Recaptured time information, which is the total time released when nobody checks into their reserved space
  • Customizable data exports, including visitor logs and in-office policy reporting
  • Custom report and dashboard building
• Custom API integrations with sensors and badge systems
• Coming soon: Check-ins validated via badge or sensor integrations, scenario planning, department resource allocation support, AI-driven space recommendations

Additional Resource

• [REPORT] Office Space Report

CXApp, The Workplace SuperApp^TM

The Workplace Analytics Dashboard of CXApp, the Workplace SuperApp^TM  gives you a complete view of occupancy across all your campuses at granular and global levels. Gain deeper insights on how your employees are using your spaces and identify trends within regions, individual campuses and buildings. Use our Workplace Analytics Dashboard to discover which spaces provide the best ROI, so you can maximize the usage of your corporate real estate (CRE) portfolio and budget.

Get to Know the Technology

• Company Dashboard: Get a centralized view of your occupancy metrics at the global and regional level.
• Campus Dashboard: Explore a more focused view of occupancy for each campus, by each building, floor, room and desk.
• App Data Dashboard: Visualize the digital footprint of your employees via data from your workplace experience app.
• Comparative Analysis: Make side-by-side and historical comparisons between occupancy metrics for different entities and timeframes, such as geographic location and year over year.
• Recency and Frequency: View precise data on the recency and frequency of occupancy for every space in your real estate portfolio.

Additional Resource:

• Read the Workplace Analytics Brochure to find out how you can use our Workplace Analytics Dashboard to boost the ROI of your CRE portfolio.

Joan Workplace Management System

With Joan Workplace Management System, you can easily improve your space occupancy.

With Joan Room Booking and proprietary ePaper room schedulers, employees can easily book and manage meeting rooms, reducing scheduling conflicts and ensuring that the rooms are being used efficiently.

The Joan Desk Booking app, allows employees to book desks as needed. By that, you can ensure that your office space is used effectively, without leaving any desks empty or underutilized.

The Joan Visitor provides automated visitor registration. By that, you can improve the efficiency and accuracy of the visitor sign-in process, reduce wait times and administrative burdens on reception staff, and increase compliance with regulations.

Joan Analytics brings insights into how your office space is being used, allowing you to identify patterns and trends, optimize the use of resources, and make data-driven decisions about how to improve the workspace experience. With customizable dashboards, Joan Analytics offers a wide range of reporting options for room booking, desk booking, and visitor registration.

With the Joan Workplace Management System, you can ensure that your office space is being used to its full potential, improving efficiency, reducing costs, and creating a more pleasant workplace experience.

Get to Know the Technology

• Joan Room Booking lets you easily book any room or space from anywhere.
• Joan Room schedulers help you manage meeting rooms in an easy, cable-free, and extremely energy-efficient way.
• Joan Desk Booking app enables you to book desks, parking spaces, and equipment with just a few clicks.
• Joan Visitor Registration provides automated visitor registration.
• Joan Analytics helps you identify your workspace behaviors and to take data-driven decisions.

Additional Resource

• [2 page PDF] How to Pitch to Your Boss with Success: “The ROI is phenomenal and it helped us achieve a lasting peace of mind”

Eptura

Eptura is the only software platform bringing workplace and asset management together, empowering you to work your world. Our single-platform solution allows you to optimize your use of time and workspace, create effective ways of working, and build an empowered worker experience — all in one trusted worktech ecosystem.

With Eptura Workplace, you get the tools you need to support hybrid work, manage visitors, and make better use of your space. And because it’s backed by powerful analytics, you can rest assured that you’re making data-driven decisions that propel your business forward. However your teams prefer to work, you can bring them together and help everyone perform at their best with workspace booking, planned collaboration, simplified service requests, and easy wayfinding, ensuring employees get the most of their time in the office. And with streamlined visitor and guest check-ins, you can keep everyone safe and secure while you’re at it.

Whether you’re facing the challenge of retooling your existing footprint or identifying new locations to eliminate unnecessary real estate costs, Eptura’s intuitive space planning tools and smart analytics help you reimagine your facilities in detail on a global, local, or floor plan level.

Get to Know the Technology

Space-Planning Tools

• Digital twins
• Strategic space planning
• Move management
• Usage monitoring
• Real estate planning
• Occupancy sensors
• Mobile app
• Analytics data dashboard
• Floorplan portal

Additional Resource

• [Downloadable Guide] 2023 workplace predictions – 5 worktech trends to watch

Modo Workplace

Engage, empower, and excite employees about returning to work with a digital engagement platform built to support people-centric workplaces. Trusted by the world’s leading brands, like Goldman Sachs, HSBC, Morgan Stanley, Schneider Electric, and more, the Modo Workplace low-code/no-code platform allows you to integrate enterprise systems, build custom modules, and add personalized elements to a branded, cross-device workplace app.

Modo Workplace unifies the entire workplace experience in one seamless app – there’s no need to download different tools, learn multiple interfaces, or log into multiple systems. It’s all in one place.

Get to Know the Technology

• Enable self-serve reservations of desks, rooms, or an entire floor for one or multiple people in one or multiple locations, for one or multiple days.
• Receive notifications and reminders about the reservation to nudge employees’ behaviors.
• Use the room/desk’s QR code to quickly book it.
• Sync in-office schedules and seating with colleagues and friends.
• Use out-of-the-box integrations for FM:System, Condeco, Office365, Slack, EMS, and more.
• Automatically release no-show booking to optimize space.
• Manage settings for advance availability by week, day, and weekends assign or remove site admins.
• Gather feedback with in-app surveys and polls.
• Streamline management of staff staggering and service provisioning.
• Add interactive wayfinding and virtual tours.

Additional Resources

• [Blog Post] Improving Accessibility in the Workplace With a Workplace App
• [Webinar] Elevate your in-office experience

The post A Round Up Of The Leading Space Occupancy Technology appeared first on Work Design Magazine.

Is your home office becoming a permanent part of your worklife? Did you love your sit-stand desk at the office and the health benefits it offers? Good news! Many of those same manufacturers have applied their workplace knowledge to create some outstanding home office sit-stand desk options that are available for purchase today. All of the following options come with robust warranties and commercial durability that sets you up for years of healthy, hybrid work from home. The WDM team tried them out over the course of a month and we are sharing what we love most.

hiSpace by Teknion

For the frequent position changer, this super sturdy sit to stand desk from Teknion is the perfect choice. Wires are nicely tucked away with the vertical wire carrier located near the platinum frame. hiSpace by Teknion comes in two thoughtfully packed boxes and took about 30 minutes to assemble. It’s currently shipping for free!

The Rundown

• Lead Time: Typically ships within 5 business days
• Weight limit: Lifting capacity of 200 lbs. (91 kg)
• Assembly: Requires simple do-it-yourself calibration when assembled
• Adjustability: Electric height adjustable desk has a wide range of heights
• Options: For modern office vibes choose from three frame colors and five work surface colors

What We Loved Most

This sit stand desk is super sturdy and relatively quiet as it moves through it’s extensive range of heights. The pre-programmed display worked great out of the box and making changes has been a breeze. The gyroscope-based collision detection system passed all of our (intentional and unintentional) tests too!

Most Popular Accessories

• Wire Management Hammock
• Power Station, Desk-Edge Mount

Passport by Herman Miller

Just this month, Herman Miller introduced Passport which offers up an ideal, adaptable work surface solution perfect for all of the areas of your home where you might choose to work including couches and tight spaces. One of the best parts is that it doesn’t require a plug or access to power. We are always on the move, so we opted for the glides instead of casters. This table also offers plenty of variability with height adjustment ranges from 12″ to 18″ depending upon the model.

The Rundown

• Lead Time: It’s in stock! Ships vis FedEx
• Weight limit: Up to 22 lbs (for larger version)
• Assembly: Some assembly required.
• Adjustability: Raise or lower the table with the lift of a lever, and without needing to plug into an electrical outlet.
• Options: Plenty of options to match your decor. Choice of size, top material, and base color.

What We Loved Most

The portability, pneumatic lift, and fact that its untethered, helped our reviewer (and her laptop + favorite drink) log lots of stand up time. There’s plenty of space for your laptop plus drink, mouse, and notebook. The larger worksurface is securely anchored by a very sturdy and weighted base. This mobile sit to stand desk came with her everywhere throughout the day and is super popular with guests during non-work hours. The Passport (with wheels) it the perfect for the remote worker who likes moving to different spots during their workday.

Most Popular Accessories

• Privacy Screen
• Bag Hook

Switchback by SitOnIt

We knew we found our fit with the Switchback sit to stand desk as it supports a dual monitor work from home set up. While we are strongly eyeing the additional cord management add-on, a docking station, chargers, and anti-collision technology lend a feeling of extra security as our set up was close to a window. With an expansive height range, it fit all three of the workers of varying heights in this reviewer’s home. From opening the box to fully operational, it only took five minutes to get set up!

The Rundown

• Lead Time: Usually two business days, transit times might vary.
• Weight limit: 220 lbs including the worksurface
• Assembly: With one hex key tool, in 5 steps plus a handy video this desk was up in 5 minutes flat!
• Adjustability: The hand set has the most memory keys we have found to date and the display offers 20 potential messages (with solutions).
• Customization options:

What We Loved Most

The incredibly easy assembly of this sit stand desk set the stage for a great first impression. The hand control offers up to 20 messages to let you know the health of your desk and how to troubleshoot any unexpected code messages should they arise. Accessories like the hook come standard and can be positioned based on preference. The eco-friendly bamboo surface with rounded corners is an extra aesthetic bonus.

Most Popular Accessories

• Mobio Monitor Arm Home Edition
• EON Power Home Edition
• Mobile Pedestal Home Edition

Raise Adjustable Height Desk by Poppin

The Poppin Raise Adjustable Height Single Desk is live from New York! Fitting in even the smallest New York studio apartments, this desk can go from 25” to 50.5” to accommodate any work style. Our reviewer preferred to leave hers at standing height to have her coffee in the morning while checking emails, then bring it to sitting height in the afternoon when she had editing and writing to get into. It also served double duty to support her studies at night she is also a student. Setting up and using the desk is easy, breezy, will make you feel like a work-from-home pro!

The Rundown

• Lead Time: In stock + ready to ship! Expect the desk within 10 business days – it came in 7 days during the holidays!
• Weight limit: Desk bases can support and lift up to 300 pounds
• Assembly: 10 minute assembly or less. You will need a buddy to help you flip the desk, it’s sturdy. No extra tools needed! We captured the set up here on TikTok.
• Adjustability: LED leaver handset under the desk controls the up and down motion. The leaver can be switched to either the left or right side of the desk.
• Options: Desktop color (choose between: White, Walnut or Natural Oak), white or black legs, casters added, pinnable privacy shield, power points outlet, power strip, cable hideaway and cable management column.

What We Loved Most

Our reviewer loved being able to stand up while working. The sound the desk makes when it goes up and down is also quite lovely (noise level below 50dB). You can easily take apart the desk without tools if you wanted to move it. It is easy to clean with a laminate top.

Most Popular Accessories

• White Slim Stow
• Maxwell Task Chair
• Monitor Riser

Looking for a seating option for when you’re not in the mood to stand at your desk? Be sure to check out our Chair of the Month! Learn more about our February Chair of the Month, Eager By Kimball International here.

The post From Office to Home: WDM Reviews Sit-Stand Desks appeared first on Work Design Magazine.