In 2023, Storr Office Environments and Steelcase transformed Highwoods Properties’ 150 Fayetteville St, Ste 400 into an award-winning, prototype workplace called the WorkBetterLab. This innovative space redefined traditional offices through immersive hybrid neighborhoods, demonstrating the future of work.
The Raleigh WorkBetterLab was one of Steelcase’s successful series of pop-ups in major cities. As leaders in workplace research, Storr and Steelcase are committed to educating organizations about the evolving expectations of today’s workforce. WorkBetterLabs exemplify thoughtful hybrid work design, featuring new and existing products from Steelcase and other top brands.
Adam Grant
Author of “Think Again”, 2022
A 2021 Steelcase global study of nearly 5,000 workers highlighted five critical employee needs for a better work experience. Addressing these needs can significantly improve employee engagement, productivity, and connection to company culture. The WorkBetterLab leveraged these insights to create spaces that enhance the work experience.
The paradigms of office design have shifted. Today, 87% of people will spend time in the office, but their work habits have changed. Offices must now meet the pragmatic needs of hybrid work while providing a fundamentally different experience. The WorkBetterLab’s hybrid neighborhoods offer diverse, inclusive spaces that make the commute worthwhile.
An intentional mix of shared and individual experiences in a relaxed, outdoor setting.
Lounge collaboration space offers relaxed postures supported by a sense of privacy.
The Raleigh WorkBetterLab showcased hybrid neighborhoods designed to balance individual and collaborative work. These neighborhoods provide:
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Great workspaces blend privacy and collaboration. The WorkBetterLab offers a mix of open “we” spaces and enclosed “me” spaces, catering to diverse preferences and activities.
Providing individual settings within open space serves to promote inclusivity for those that are stimulated by working in active environments.
Equipping learning spaces with a range of easily movable furniture enables users to configure the setting to best respond to the task at hand.
WorkBetterLab’s design emphasizes flexibility and mobility, featuring modular, movable, and multi-use spaces. These adaptable environments allow individuals to choose how they work best and transition smoothly between tasks.
The WorkBetterLab integrates technology to enhance connectivity and collaboration. Meeting spaces are equipped with digital tools and interactive displays, creating an inclusive environment for both in-person and remote participants.
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Hybrid huddle room for small in-person groups to share content and engage with virtual participants.
The WorkBetterLab engaged over 1,200 individuals from 342 organizations, offering personalized consultations and hosting community events. This initiative showcased how collaborative, user-centered workspace design can transform the modern workplace.