Elevating Workplace Wellbeing: Exploring Innovative Open Work Spaces in NYC

A rooftop with the city skyline view and modern skyscrapers against a sunny blue sky in New York. Colorful chairs overlooking the city. Rows of skyscrapers in the back. Sunny and warm day.
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Today’s organizations place an unprecedented emphasis on employee wellbeing and as a result,  the importance of vibrant open spaces within office buildings has never been more evident. In fact, according to a recent HqO LinkedIn survey, a staggering 63% of respondents named access to outdoor spaces as the most appealing wellness-centered amenity. Let’s dive into the stories of two extraordinary office buildings in New York City that embody this trend, reshaping the idea of dynamic open spaces.

1301 Avenue of the Americas – Paramount Group

Nestled in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, 1301 Avenue of the Americas stands tall as a modern architectural marvel. Crafted by the renowned firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, this forty-five-story office tower offers over 1.7 million square feet of Class A office space, complemented by approximately 30,000 square feet of prime retail space.

What truly sets 1301 Avenue of the Americas apart is its innovative approach to tenant amenities. Paramount Group has meticulously curated a state-of-the-art conference and amenity center exclusively for tenants within its New York portfolio. Designed by David Rockwell, this amenity center is a sanctuary of productivity and relaxation, featuring an in-building café, a business lounge, and a wellness studio. However, the crown jewel of this space is undoubtedly the open concourse level atrium, adorned with living plant walls and trees, seamlessly merging the indoors with the outdoors.

Incorporating natural elements into the building not only elevates its visual charm but also nurtures a feeling of well-being among its occupants. Amid the hustle and bustle of New York City, where green spaces are scarce, 1301 Avenue of the Americas serves as a peaceful haven for progressive companies seeking to foster the comprehensive well-being of their employees.

555 Greenwich Street – Hines

Located in the vibrant Hudson Square neighborhood, 555 Greenwich Street epitomizes the marriage of sustainability and wellness-centric design. Developed by Hudson Square Properties, a collaboration between Trinity Church Wall Street, Norges Bank Investment Management, and Hines, this 16-story office tower is a beacon of environmental stewardship and occupant comfort.

Designed by COOKFOX Architects, 555 Greenwich seamlessly integrates retail space on the ground floor with office space above, blending harmoniously with the neighborhood’s urban fabric. However, it’s the building’s unwavering commitment to wellness and sustainability that truly sets it apart. From geothermal and radiant heating to full electrification and dedicated outside air systems, every aspect of the building is meticulously crafted to minimize its environmental impact.

However, what truly sets 555 Greenwich apart is its focus on expansive areas. The structure features a captivating 16th-floor rooftop open terrace, providing stunning panoramas of the city skyline and the Hudson River. Moreover, the ground-level lobbies seamlessly transition from the energetic streetscape to a serene oasis, enveloped in natural daylight, fresh air, and abundant greenery.

In an era where employee well-being is non-negotiable, spaces that prioritize wellness and connectivity are invaluable. 555 Greenwich and 1301 Avenue of the Americas exemplify the transformative power of dynamic open spaces, fostering collaboration, creativity, and overall tenant satisfaction. As the commercial real estate landscape continues to evolve, these visionary developments serve as beacons of inspiration, paving the way for a more sustainable and human-centric future.

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