With Pru beginning to roll out its new amenity upgrades, including an expanded rooftop terrace, state-of-the-art conference center, and reimagined ELEVEN, the role our physical working environment plays in our day-to-day lives has been top of mind. Our productivity, well-being, and the workplace culture as a whole are all deeply influenced by our surroundings — it’s part of the reason why Pru prioritizes the quality and design of its community spaces.  

Nobody understands the impact our workplace has better than Office Revolution, a contract furniture provider that furnishes workspaces where design, function, and business all work in harmony. Office Revolution has been a member of the Pru community since 2016, and we were lucky enough to talk to the office design experts in preparation for a lunch & learn event they’ll be hosting on ELEVEN on March 6th from 12-1 PM, titled “Reimagine Your Workspace: Ideas & Strategies for an Updated Office.”

“The impact of an organization’s environment on productivity, well-being, and culture is paramount,” says Jill Stewart, President of Office Revolution. “The space in which individuals work plays a crucial role in shaping their overall experience and performance.”  

These tangible benefits to office productivity can show up in big ways and small, from the broader layout of a workspace to the ergonomic furniture in it. “Employees are likely to be more focused and efficient when the physical space supports their workflow, minimizes distractions, and promotes ease of movement,” says Stewart. That productivity can get a further boost when the workplace is designed to encourage collaboration and connection. “Open, flexible spaces with collaborative furniture foster teamwork and idea-sharing,” continued Stewart. “By providing a variety of work settings, from formal meeting rooms to informal breakout areas, the environment can stimulate creativity and innovation.” 
 
It’s not just productivity either — the health and well-being of employees is highly correlated with the physical space they’re working in. Plenty of natural light, comfortable seating, and thoughtful spatial arrangements can help reduce stress and enhance morale. Office Revolution pays particular attention to its employees’ comfort and well-being in their workplace. “We consistently prioritize the assessment of employee engagement through regular surveys conducted multiple times throughout the year,” said Stewart. “These surveys serve as a crucial tool in gauging the satisfaction and well-being of our workforce.” (Pru’s rooftop area and state-of-the-art gym facilities are often cited as favorite perks amongst Office Revolution’s employees).  

But arguably the biggest benefit from a well-designed workplace is the strong organizational culture that can accompany it. In fact, Stewart describes an office’s physical environment as the tangible expression of its organization’s culture, from the colors used in the interior design to the choice of furniture. “A well-curated and thoughtfully designed workspace fosters a sense of community and belonging, reinforcing the organizational culture, and creating a positive impression on both employees and visitors,” says Stewart.  

The Office Revolution team will be expanding on these key insights during “Reimagine Your Workspace: Ideas & Strategies for an Updated Office,” held on ELEVEN on March 6th from 12-1 PM. Attendees can expect an overview of the relationship between design and employee engagement, including how a well-designed workspace can foster creativity, collaboration, and a sense of belonging. With specific case studies and examples, discussion, a Q&A session, and a light lunch provided, it’s an excellent opportunity to gain a broader understanding of you and your employees’ working environment. We hope to see you there!