Better Building [Edition #16]

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IN THIS EDITION [5 min read]

?? What 'high performance ' office design looks like

?? Wildfire smoke to become ‘new norm ’ in the US

?? U.S. Federal definition of “zero emissions building”

THIS MONTH IN BETTER BUILDING

Is your office design holding back your team's potential? Gensler thinks so .

As office life continues its post-pandemic evolution, the emphasis on effective office design has never been clearer. According to Gensler's 2024 Global Workplace Study, which surveyed 16,000 workers across 15 countries and 10 industries, the focus has shifted from whether to return to the office to how the office environment can enhance productivity and employee satisfaction. Gensler's research highlights that high-performing workplaces balance functionality with emotional appeal, creating spaces that support work while also inspiring employees. These workplaces typically feature areas for informal interactions, focused tasks, and relaxation, which are crucial for fostering a productive and satisfied workforce.

Why should you care? The findings underscore a vital link between office design and employee performance, emphasizing that a well-designed office can attract and retain top talent. This is particularly significant for business leaders aiming to improve team dynamics, collaboration, and overall productivity. Despite these benefits, the report reveals a gap in action, with fewer than a third of workplaces undergoing redesigns in the past three years. This disconnect presents an opportunity for forward-thinking companies to leverage strategic office design as a competitive advantage, ensuring their spaces not only meet but exceed the evolving expectations of their workforce.

We may be biased, but we see indoor air quality as a crucial pillar of an optimal workplace. Improving IAQ is not just a well-being initiative, it's a strategic initiative that helps attract and retain top talent, boost workforce performance, and portray your company as both employee-focused and environmentally responsible. In a labor market that’s still recovering from the effects of the Great Resignation, organizations that prioritize a superior workplace experience will lead the pack.?

THIS MONTH IN AN IMAGE

Buildings Go Green : Leading organizations present a framework for the buildings sector to reach their decarbonization goals.

THIS MONTH IN TOP-LEVEL INSIGHTS

Formaldehyde is a compound that gets a bad reputation for good reason—you surely want to keep an eye on the formaldehyde levels in your air by monitoring it—but it’s important to note that not all formaldehyde sensors are made equal! Some can cause quite a stir, sending users into a panic due to cross-sensitivity with other compounds like alcohol ??… Kaiterra CEO, Liam Bates, explains why you should approach formaldehyde monitoring with caution:

Join the conversation on LinkedIn ???

INDUSTRY NEWS

IMPORTANT

HAZARD ON THE HORIZON: New York City braces for another summer shrouded in smoke from Canadian wildfires, a recurring issue exacerbated by climate change. Last year's unprecedented fire season in Canada led to severe air quality deterioration in NYC, with a 40% spike in asthma-related ER visits. Experts warn this trend will continue, demanding new attitudes and preparedness for frequent air quality alerts.

INTERESTING

BUILDING THE FUTURE: Amidst the climate crisis, skyscrapers are evolving from mere symbols of grandeur to statements of sustainable design. With new technologies and clean energy solutions, architects and developers aim to reduce the environmental footprint of tall buildings. However, balancing beauty and sustainability remains a challenge, highlighting the need for innovative approaches to decarbonizing urban landscapes.

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CRAZY

MENACING MICROPLASTICS: Scientists are finding microplastics everywhere , from oceans to our own bodies, posing a rising health concern. People inhale thousands of these particles weekly, up to a credit card’s worth! Research shows microplastics can infiltrate organs, causing inflammation and potentially chronic conditions. Despite growing evidence, regulations remain scarce, leaving experts to warn about the urgent need for action before the impacts on human health become irreversible.

OTHER VERY GOOD READS

?? Fitwel unveils v3.0 of its healthy building certification

?? U.S. Federal definition of “Zero Emissions Building”

?? New workplace standards demand an evolution of office design

?? Ensuring comfort and IAQ in buildings and schools during summer