Nothing lasts forever, and for an increasing number of employers, that includes generous remote work policies. While workers may love working from home in their sweatpants, more and more businesses want their staff back in the office for productivity, cohesiveness, and cultural reasons. A recent survey by ZipRecruiter found that the share of companies allowing office workers to work completely remotely fell from 21 percent in 2023 to just seven percent in 2024. Additionally, the share giving workers “complete choice about working remotely or in-office” dropped from 18 percent to 14 percent.

Working with property managers, those employers requiring workers to return to the office are trying to ease the process – and avoid losing valuable talent to companies with more flexible remote work policies – by making the office itself more attractive and appealing. Research has shown office amenities enhance the workplace environment, employee experience, and productivity. The integration of amenities attracts and retains talent by improving the workplace experience and can contribute to dynamic, fulfilling work environments.

There are many types of amenities and amenity spaces that property managers and employers can develop. While some may be new additions to old workplaces, other enhancements may involve a redesign or reimagining of existing spaces. These can include:

  • Innovative Collaborative and Social Spaces: Shared spaces designed for brainstorming, meetings, or informal gatherings foster teamwork and creativity. Adding game rooms, lounges, or outdoor patios can encourage employees to bond and relax together, building a sense of community.
  • Fitness and Wellness Facilities and Spaces: Investing in wellness facilities signals a commitment to employee health. Gyms, yoga studios, or meditation rooms promote physical and mental well-being. Breakout spaces with comfortable seating, calming décor, and even indoor plants can help employees recharge during busy days.
  • Café and Dining Amenities: A microwave, fridge, coffee machine, and a few basic tables and chairs may have been sufficient in the past, but today’s workers expect a bit more from the spaces where they eat lunch or take a coffee break. Welcoming and attractive dining spaces encourage employee interaction and bonding, while making this valuable time more restorative.
  • Pet-Friendly Care Spaces: Not worrying about their dogs and cats, and not having to pay to have them walked or fed during the day, is a huge benefit and relief for employees. By having spaces where employees can bring their furry family members, companies can help workers focus on the tasks at hand.
  • Reimagined Office and Reception Areas: Flexible and open workspaces that allow for easy modifications as needs change can help keep an office fresh and responsive to employee needs, while comfortable and attractive reception areas can make everyone entering – workers and guests alike – feel good about being there.

How Eagle Mat Can Help Companies and Properties Level Up Their Office Game

All of these renovations and redesigns that can ease the transition back to in-office work start from the ground up. At Eagle Mat, we are consulting with clients to help them select and install the right flooring products to create and enhance amenity workspaces. We have an extensive portfolio of completed projects that have transformed workplaces to the satisfaction of employers, employees, and property managers alike.

If you would like to learn more about the many products and services we offer at Eagle Mat and Floor Products, including professional flooring consultations for office and amenity improvements, we welcome the opportunity to meet with you. Contact us today to speak with our knowledgeable sales team about product availability, functionality, and installation.