Encouraging workplace engagement through wellness

In relocating its office to the emerging Qiantan Business District, Covestro wanted to ease the change process and support transparent, effective communication. We devised a comprehensive change management plan including interviews and questionnaires, as well as a range of interactive activities including furniture voting, a virtual reality space tour and wellness workshops. These sessions generated a well-rounded staff understanding of the new office environment and vision, and gave us valuable insights for design decisions.

Preliminary discussions revealed Covestro’s desire for an agile workplace with diverse settings to support the business culture. Through quantitative research (storage, space utilisation monitoring and data analysis) and qualitative findings (work pattern observations and workshops), we designed a 100% unassigned seating solution. The workplace extends across five floors. An interior staircase linking the top two floors creates connection by supporting chance encounters. A range of furniture options provide diversity of function and aesthetics, while also meeting flexible work needs. The design features vibrant colours in telephone booths, collaboration areas and open spaces, reinforcing Covestro’s brand values.

As the first WELL Gold-certified office in the global chemical industry, Covestro’s new Shanghai workplace sets the standard for future-proofed work environments. Stringent requirements have been met for air quality, water, and lighting, as well as addressing physical and mental needs. Height-adjustable tables and standing/bicycle/treadmill desks encourage physical activity. Each floor is equipped with a wellness space including yoga rooms, fitness spaces, meditation areas and a ping-pong room. Breakout and collaboration spaces have access to natural daylight, while floor-to-ceiling windows in the open café create a relaxing atmosphere for gathering and informal collaborations. As a true measure of success for Covestro’s new Shanghai workplace, the design has achieved a 97% satisfaction rate amongst staff.