As hybrid workspaces become the norm, the concept of return on commute is reshaping how businesses approach office design. Employees no longer want to spend hours commuting unless their destination offers tangible value. A well-designed office should enhance productivity, support wellbeing, and make every moment spent there worth the trip. At PureAlchemy Design, we believe in curating spaces that elevate the workplace experience by offering a true return on commute. Let’s explore how strategic interior design can make that a reality.
Data from the Leesman Index Survey, as reported by Modo, suggests that organizations can up their game by providing employees a greater return on their commute. Activities like individual desk-based or away from desk work, spreading out materials, and taking breaks were reported as areas where employees feel the return on their commute can be enhanced.
1) Enhance Individual Productivity
- A study from The National Institute of Health indicates the current hybrid landscape is linked with increased incidences of multitasking and workplace distractions for employees, which can have consequential cognitive effects.
- PureAlchemy Tip: Employees need a workspace that works for them. Areas designed specifically for focused work, whether they’re quiet nooks away from the desk or sit/stand desks with adjustable ergonomics, allow employees to zone in on their tasks.
2) Boost Creative Thinking
- A study by Leesman found 53% of employees working in the office 4-5 days a week felt they had enough time for creative thinking, while 73% who worked 1 day or less in the office felt they had enough time for such creative exploration.
- PureAlchemy Tip: Planned meetings in dynamic environments—whether designed for informal huddles or formal presentations—can spark creativity and drive results, ensuring time spent commuting to the office is well-used.
3) Enable Purposeful Interactions
- A recent article by Leesman calls for office space needing to be a quality space for employees to feel a return on commute. Forbes Magazine adds that employee access to office resources and equipment play an important role in setting employees up for optimal performance in the workplace.
- PureAlchemy Tip: Thoughtfully designed meeting rooms promote effective collaboration. From ergonomic seating to tech-enabled surfaces, these spaces encourage efficient communication and ideation. Having dedicated areas for planned meetings also prevents spontaneous interruptions in open office areas, supporting better workflow.
Our Alchemy Approach
At PureAlchemy Design, we believe every aspect of office design should deliver a strong return on commute—whether through thoughtful layouts, adaptable spaces, or areas for connection. By making the office a valuable destination for employees, we ensure that every commute pays off for both employees and the organizations they support.
Learn more about PureAlchemy Design’s approach and learn more about our Elements of Design.