In November 2022, Elon Musk took a sledgehammer to remote work policies at Twitter and Tesla with his now infamous decree: “If you don’t like it, you can leave.” His unflinching stance sparked a workforce shake-up and reignited the debate on how CEOs can build a cohesive, innovative company culture in an era when remote work reigns supreme.
But let’s flip the script: instead of coercion, what if the office became an irresistible place employees wanted to return to? Imagine a workplace that prioritises well-being, creativity, and connection, making it less “mandatory punishment” and more “personal choice.” At Altis, we believe the solution lies in the design—spaces that put psychological comfort front and centre, transforming the office from a relic of the past into a hub of inspiration.
From Workhorse to Well-being Hub
The old-school office? Sterile, functional, and frankly depressing. It was all about squeezing productivity out of people. Post-pandemic, however, employees are demanding more from their work environments. Returning to the office doesn’t have to mean sacrificing well-being or flexibility.
Instead, companies should focus on reinventing offices as dynamic spaces that support mental and physical health, proving that the traditional model can evolve into something employees actually look forward to.
Turning the Office into a Place People Want to Be
If you’re going to make people return to the office, at least make it worth their while. Create an environment that empowers, supports, and inspires. How?
Continue reading for some useful tips!
- Spaces that Promote Well-being: Incorporate natural light, greenery, and areas for relaxation to reduce stress and lift moods. Quiet zones for reflection and open spaces for collaboration? Yes, please.
- Flexibility in the Environment: Standing desks, cosy lounges, soundproof meeting rooms—let employees choose how they work. Empower them to feel in control and less like captives.
- Emphasis on Connection: Design spaces that foster human interaction, from informal lounges to communal kitchens. Build a sense of community that no Zoom meeting can replicate.
- Focus on Psychological Safety: An office isn’t just about physical security. Employees need to feel safe expressing themselves and collaborating without judgement. Create a culture where openness thrives.
A Hybrid Reality: The Office as a Magnet, Not a Cage
Hybrid work may be the new normal, but the office still holds a pivotal role. For those who’ve grown comfortable with remote setups, returning to the office can feel like being dragged back to school. Let’s change that. Make the office more than a workspace—make it an experience. One that’s dynamic, empowering, and, dare we say it, fun.
Conclusion
Elon Musk might think ultimatums are the way forward, but if you’re forcing people to come back to the office, at least ensure they don’t regret the trip. A well-designed workspace could be the difference between grudging compliance and genuine enthusiasm. After all, nobody wants to endure the daily grind in a setting that feels like a dystopian nightmare.
