When’s the last time you looked forward to flying? (Think back, we’ll wait.)
Air travel today can feel a lot like getting shuffled from one bland box to another. You arrive at the airport, wait for your flight on a hard plastic chair facing a white wall, and the most interesting thing to look at is the ‘flair’ decorating the Chili’s Too.
The travel industry is finally recognizing that the airport sets the tone for how a passenger feels about their trip. If your first thought when entering an airport is “ugh,” then the entire experience becomes an exercise in frustration.
Albany International Airport (ALB) has taken this cue. Construction projects are transforming the hub into a more welcoming space, complete with public art and green spaces. They’re also installing glass curtain walls and translucent canopies to let in more natural light (a proven mood booster).
In short, Albany, along with a host of other airports, are transforming their spaces into destinations where physical and emotional well-being is not only considered, it’s prioritized. They want customers to look forward to a delayed flight, because it means they get to spend more time in their space.
There’s a lot for business owners to learn here. When employees start considering your space a destination, rather than just a place to work, then working for you becomes eminently more attractive. When your team wants to be at the office, their productivity goes up. Double that sentiment if you’re inviting customers into your space — if they like being there, they’re way more likely to do business with you.
What does it take to turn your office into a destination? Here are four tips:
1. Utilize biophilia and natural materials (woods, metals, etc.)
2. Hero natural light.
3. Install furniture that people actually want to sit in.
4. Create flexible spaces where people can gather to socialize and work
If you’re looking for a good example of a destination space, come check out our showroom — we love showing it off. Book a tour and let us inspire you.
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