In the first of a series of articles on innovative workplaces, we’ll highlight companies who have gone well beyond ping pong and billiards to create truly engaging recreation areas.
Godaddy Sunnyvale. In a 2014 remodel designed by DES Architects + Engineers, the web hosting company was determined to have its office reflect the company’s lively and innovative culture. And they went all out. The 10,000 square foot facility features a mini race car track where staff can use adult big-wheel bikes to traverse the office. Other amenities include a rock climbing wall, scooters, mini-golf, a video game room, along with the requisite foosball table.
Popcap Games. Seattle-based video game developer Popcap, best known for its hit game Bejeweled, has built multiple break rooms designed to help attract and retain top talent. Popcap’s office is well equipped with comfy sofas, multiple video game stations, flat screen TVs, whiteboards, and razor scooters to help the company maintain a fun and vibrant atmosphere.
JD.com. This Chinese ecommerce giant was committed to making its new Beijing headquarters an inspiring workplace that could serve as an important tool for employee recruitment and retention. The new building now features a dedicated billiards game room, life-size chess and checkers, a meditation area, and an in-house gym.
Vivid Seats. One of the country’s leading independent ticket re-sellers, Chicago-based Vivid wanted to make sure its ‘home turf’ reflected the company’s focus on sports and events. From the turnstyle at the office entrance to the football field-themed carpet, visitors and staff never lose sight of the major themes the company looks to emphasize. The office also features an indoor basketball court, an ice hockey rink-shaped lunchroom, ping pong, foosball, classic arcade games, and a putting green.
Cisco Bangalore. Cisco’s largest office in India, with more than 7,000 employees, provides an amenity-rich environment for its staff. Recreation options include an onsite gym, karaoke facilities, music rooms, indoor badminton courts, and even a box office area featuring western and bollywood movies. Earlier this year ThrowMotion cricket was added to Cisco game rooms, and the game has proven to be an extraordinarily effective and popular employee engagement tool.
