As companies aim to keep a competitive edge, many are creating outdoor spaces to motivate and energize employees, as well as provide areas for relaxation and socialization. There’s also the health and wellness benefits, which are pushing developers, building owners, designers and investors to proactively create these amenities. Whether it’s at ground level or an activated rooftop, these spaces may include movable tables and chairs, comfortable lounge furniture, WiFi, charging stations, open green space, cafes and more.
Hines’s 609 Main is a recent example of an office tower that has effectively leveraged outdoor space to meet the growing needs of tenants. The 48-story tower in downtown Houston has a large landscaped outdoor space atop the 12-story parking podium. Designed by OJB, the sprawling green space was a desirable asset for leasing a lower-floor office, which United Airlines moved into.