With the post-pandemic push to bring employees back to the office, companies understand that the traditional office space is a thing of the past and are looking to differentiate themselves with amenities that promote employee wellbeing.
The challenge is to create a space where employees want to come to work rather than have to.
Real estate management experts agree. In an article on how facility managers need to shift their thinking on workplace wellbeing, G.S. Tyagi of Colliers states, “In the ever-evolving landscape of commercial real estate, tenants are no longer content with conventional office spaces.”
Part of this trend is creating more green spaces in our workspaces.
The Science Behind Green Spaces and Wellbeing
Numerous studies have highlighted the positive effects of green spaces on mental and physical health. Exposure to nature, even in small doses, can significantly reduce stress, improve mood, and increase overall satisfaction with life. For employees, these benefits translate into a more engaged, motivated, and resilient workforce.
Research from the University of Exeter found that employees who have access to green spaces are not only happier but also more productive. The presence of plants, trees, and natural landscapes can help reduce mental fatigue, leading to better concentration and creativity. In a world where burnout is increasingly common, green spaces provide a much-needed respite, allowing employees to recharge and return to their tasks with renewed energy.
The Business Case for Green Spaces
A lack of green spaces is taking its toll on people - and that creates consequences for businesses and property managers.
Companies that prioritize employee wellbeing through initiatives like green spaces often see lower turnover rates, reduced absenteeism, and higher levels of employee satisfaction. Moreover, a healthy and happy workforce is more productive, innovative, and capable of driving business success.
In today’s competitive talent market, offering a workplace that prioritizes employee wellbeing can also be a key differentiator. Prospective employees are increasingly looking for employers who value work-life balance and provide environments that support their overall health and happiness.
The Shift is Beginning
We can see the change starting. From outdoor break areas to gardening programs, companies are investing in creating green spaces that give employees the opportunity to breathe a little easier during a high stress workday.
Strathmore has played a role in helping forward-thinking companies and real-estate managers create innovative outdoor spaces that not only provide respite to employees but also generate benefits for the community.
Working with Red Bull, we created and continue to manage a rooftop garden and terrace in the heart of Liberty Village in Toronto. Employees can take advantage of a second-floor rooftop greenspace area for breaks, lunches and team building activities.
Similarly, Strathmore transformed the grounds at Consilium Place, one of Toronto’s preeminent office complexes. Over the last three years, we have nurtured a vegetable garden that surrounds an employee terrace. Employees are free to add fresh herbs, lettuce and tomatoes to their snack or lunch.
“The grounds at Consilium are spectacular and vibrant with colours throughout the three seasons. The tenants love the transformation of the gardens since Strathmore has taken over the contract. They feel they are working at a resort. All potential new tenants that arrive are in awe and look forward to working here if the deal goes well. Many tenant employees walk the grounds each day just to see the change in the scenery,” said Peter Lentinello of Colliers.
More to Come
As companies continue to navigate the challenges of the modern workplace, the importance of employee wellbeing cannot be overstated. Green spaces offer a simple yet powerful way to enhance the physical and mental health of employees, fostering a more positive, productive, and sustainable workplace culture.
And, allow their employees to bring their best and be their best.
Jessica Milligan
President of Strathmore
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