Visnick & Caulfield envisions a sustainable, inspirational and diverse workplace for tech client Workhuman in Framingham, MA.
At Workhuman’s North American Headquarters, joy at work is more than just an aspiration—it’s woven into the very fabric of the office environment. This innovative space celebrates a “choose your workstyle” philosophy, ensuring that every individual finds their ideal working atmosphere. Whether one thrives in a quiet nook designed for focused hybrid meetings or an energetic, open area that buzzes with creativity and collaboration, the headquarters welcomes all. Seating arrangements cater to diverse needs, from cozy, ergonomic chairs to open lounge areas, while ambient soundscapes and adaptable music settings respond to varying sensitivities, ensuring a personalized experience for every employee.
The office design marries functionality with aesthetics, creating a setting that nurtures well-being and sparks creativity. A neutral color palette serves as a soothing backdrop, enhanced by vibrant accents that stimulate inspiration and joy. Each corner of the space is thoughtfully designed to reflect Workhuman’s commitment to sustainability. Ethically sourced materials and recycled products fill the interior, aligning with the company’s global environmental goals. Many elements from Workhuman’s previous location have been repurposed, reinforcing their dedication to a sustainable future. The design honors the company’s Dublin roots through subtle graphics, technology, and material choices, creating a cohesive yet distinct identity for each office space.
A Gratitude Tree
At the heart of this vibrant environment stands the Gratitude Tree, a symbol of interconnectedness and the centerpiece of Workhuman’s cultural and social ethos.
The Tree, an iconic feature from the company’s Workhuman Live events, has been integrated with the “Spark” platform. This technological marvel allows employees and visitors to celebrate and recognize one another’s contributions in real-time, reinforcing a culture of appreciation and positive reinforcement. Surrounding the Gratitude Tree, circular bench seating and whimsical hanging chairs invite spontaneous collaboration and interaction, embodying inclusivity in both form and function.
The Wellness Story
Well-being is central to the design, with a suite of amenities dedicated to enhancing employees’ physical and mental health. Multiple wellness suites offer tranquil spaces for relaxation and reflection, while a quiet library provides a serene retreat from the bustle. The state-of-the-art fitness center includes rejuvenation areas and showers, ensuring that every aspect of wellness is catered to. Common staircases encourage movement and foster connections between the floors, promoting both physical activity and interdepartmental engagement. Natural daylight streams through windows, and lush greenery breathes life into every corner, making the workspace not just a place to work but a sanctuary where vitality thrives.
Project Planning
The c-suite was actively involved in the planning process, led by Jess Klay, Vice President of Global Workplace Experience Design. The leadership team worked closely to ensure the office design aligned with Workhuman’s core values and vision, and a connection to their Dublin office and roots. Employee input was a critical part of this planning, collected through various channels such as engagement activities and change management initiatives.
In addition, there were many unique design requirements, the most notable being the central symbolic feature, the Gratitude Tree. The Tree plays a key role in fostering the company’s culture of appreciate and connectedness, integrating with “The Spark,” Workhuman’s workplace engagement app. To seamlessly connect the physical and digital realms of employee recognition, the team brought in various voices in coordination, met frequently face to face, and problem solved with an attention to detail.
Project Details
The health and wellness initiatives at Workhuman’s headquarters are central to the design, featuring:
- multiple wellness suites for relaxation and personal needs
- a quiet library for focused work
- and a state-of-the-art fitness center with rejuvenation areas and showers
Furnishings are ergonomic and diverse, offering variety from cozy chairs to open lounge spaces, with adaptable music settings and ambient soundscapes tailored to individual preferences. The central Gratitude space features circadian lighting, mimicking natural daylight patterns, which helps regulate employees’ sleep-wake cycles, improves mood, and boosts productivity. Branding elements include the iconic Gratitude Tree, integrated with the Spark platform, and subtle nods to the company’s Dublin roots through environmental graphics, technology, and material choices.
Key Products
Tech Solutions
Workhuman Social Recognition Software
Overall Project Results
In essence, Workhuman’s Headquarters is more than an office—it’s a dynamic ecosystem designed to elevate joy at work. It reflects the company’s core values through a thoughtful blend of sustainability, innovation, and community spirit. This vibrant, sustainable haven not only meets the needs of its diverse workforce but also fosters a deep sense of connection and well-being, embodying Workhuman’s mission to create a joyful and fulfilling work experience.
Four months post opening, the first phase of post-occupancy study is being actively planned.
Meet the Design Team & Key Partners:
- Workhuman – Jess Klay, Vice President of Global Workplace Experience Design
- J Calnan & Associates (General Contractor) – Chet Braun, Project Executive
- Cumming Group (Project Manager) – Rachel Moore-Houessou, Project Manager
- Cumming Group (Environmental Graphics) – Catalina Montanez, Design Manager
- Vanderweil Engineers – Kevin McNamara, Associate Principal
- Communication Design Associates Inc. – Joel Nygren, Associate Principal
- Reflex Lighting Group – Collin Thomas, Principal
- Red Thread Steelcase – Sue Noonan, Director of Workplace Strategy
- Kinema Fitness – Leah Atkinson, Vice President
- Greenmood (Greenery) – Ainslie Ritz, Principal
Photography
James Reed Photography and Carly Gillis Photography
People’s Choice Runner’s Up!
The 2024 Next Work Environment Competition Office Design category had a record breaking amount of submissions this year!
The Workhuman office was recognized as one of 12 People’s Choice Finalists in the Office Design Category.
WDM turned to the readers to pick out the space where they would most like to work and Workhuman HQ earned Runner Up recognition! Follow along to see how each office did!
