Pages

Friday, April 04, 2014

12 Luxurious Office Facilities

We all know what a standard office looks like. Unfortunately many offices are extremely dull and not very inspiring. However, a few companies around the world have tried to shake up what we think of as an office. Companies such as Red Bull, Google, Facebook and Nike and other less well known brands have completely reinvented the traditional office space. If you could design the perfect office, what facilities would it have?

Many of us are used to the standard kitchen, meeting rooms and boring office furniture. However, there are lots of little luxuries that can really enhance an office and make it a nicer place to be. You probably won’t find an office with all of these things but you can probably campaign for at least one or two luxurious facilities. Some office spaces that you can rent come with some excellent added extras. Here are 12 luxurious that would make any office a better place to work.

1. Gym
One of the best ways to improve your concentration and give your body and mind a break is by doing exercise. A good workout can make you feel really refreshed and much more focused. For this reason, many companies try to either get a gym on their office premises or give staff free membership to a nearby gym. Having a gym at your office instantly makes it feel more luxurious. It will also encourage you to lead a fit and healthy lifestyle.

2. Open Space
According to office space specialists Pera Business Park "Open spaces may not sound like a luxury but when you are cooped up all day in an office they are essential." It’s important to have a space to go to where you can clear your head and get some space. Ideally this would be an outside space such as gardens or a courtyard, or simply an inside space where people can go for a break or some time to think.

3. Sofas And Beds
Some office chairs can be very uncomfortable. It’s nice to be able to crash on a sofa during your breaks and really sit back and relax. Sitting on a sofa in a different room also gives you a much needed break from your desk environment. A few companies have even gone to the effort to provide employees with beds for their breaks and when they need to work long hours.

4. Hot Drink Machines
Lots of offices have kitchens where staff can make their own drinks. However, having a hot drinks machine does makes things easier. If you haven’t got one just explain to your boss how much time everyone wastes making their own drinks throughout the day.

5. Games Room
After a really stressful day what better way to unwind than having a bit of fun in your office games room. Get a pool table, dart board and foosball table for your office. Having a laugh and playing games can also boost morale and it’s a good team building activity.

6. Ergonomic Furniture
Ergonomic furniture doesn’t exactly sound exciting but in reality it can really enhance your working day. Everyone gets aches and pains from sitting at a desk all day, and a lot of the time it’s because we don’t have the right equipment. Ergonomic furniture improves your posture by encouraging you to sit properly. It keeps you in the optimum position for working.

7. Refreshments
Having an enticing selection of refreshments handy is definitely a luxury in any office. It’s great to be able to have a few snacks and refreshing drinks available to keep you going through long meetings and challenging days. You will also stay healthier and have more energy if you eat properly and stay hydrated throughout the day.

8. Massage Chairs
There is nothing better than sitting on a soothing massage chair and taking a few moments to switch off. Let the massage chair eradicate your stresses and strains and leave you feeling much more relaxed. Lots of people would love to have a luxurious massage chair in their office.

9. Swimming Pool
Not many offices around the world have a pool for employees to enjoy. Some offices that have a gym or health centre attached might also have a pool. Swimming is a brilliant way to stay fit but it can also be very therapeutic and relaxing. Head down to the pool on your lunch break and feel revitalised and ready to tackle your work.

10. Video Games
Sometimes we just need some time to escape from the office, but it can be really difficult to switch off. Going into a dedicated video games room and playing your favourite video game is an excellent way to distract your mind. Spending 10 or 15 minutes playing a videogame could help you to relax and even make you more productive when you get back to work. A few companies have realised having video games can  help to improve staff morale.

11. Bar
Having a bar in your office is definitely a luxury. You can go there for a few quiet drinks to unwind at the end of the day or to be sociable with your colleagues. You can also entertain clients and hold company socials in your very own staff bar.

12. Televisions
Lots of offices have televisions and flat screens but most of the time they are used to give presentations or during meetings. Try and get a television installed in a dedicated chill out room for staff where you can catch up on your favourite programmes or watch the news during your breaks.