
Thought Leadership
How to Design a Productive Office Space in NYC
June 3, 2025
Discover the essentials of workspace design that caters to your team’s needs and creates an ideal environment for innovation and productivity. Empire State Realty Trust’s design experts Yuri Choi and Jenna Amateau gave their tips on how to design a productive workspace that meets the unique challenges and opportunities of office space in Manhattan.
Read on to learn how to craft a workspace that enhances productivity and well-being!
Understand End Users
Successful workspace design starts with an understanding of your team. Departmental dynamics can determine whether independent or cross-functional collaboration is required throughout your office. Always tailor office spaces to promote interaction and support each team’s workflow. Flexible workstations are a must for agile teams who wish to boost workspace productivity.

Think about collaboration styles – do your teams thrive on spontaneous brainstorms in casual settings or prefer scheduled meetings in conference rooms? The nature of interactions, whether online or in-person, can guide your workspace design choices. Incorporate huddle rooms with cutting-edge technology for quick catchups or open lounges for casual discussions. A balance of these options enhances productivity and morale and makes your NYC office space truly dynamic.
Ergonomic Furniture, Fixtures, and Equipment
Elevate workspace productivity with ergonomic solutions tailored for NYC’s bustling environment. Sit-stand desks promote movement and reduce sedentary risks, which, in turn, boost energy and productivity in your office.

Choose adjustable chairs made of breathable materials to enhance comfort and support the spine. Ergonomic chairs should offer height, backrest angle, and customizable armrests for better posture and minimal fatigue. Monitor arms are essential in collaborative settings to maintain proper posture.
Lighting
Proper lighting is one of the top requirements for focus and comfort in workspace design. Maximize natural light with glass office fronts and open layouts to create an inviting atmosphere. Natural light not only boosts mood and productivity but also regulates circadian rhythms to keep employees engaged.

Complement natural light with ambient lighting to reduce glare and eye strain. Soft, indirect lighting enhances a warm, comfortable environment for focus and workspace productivity. Strategic placement of lamps and fixtures maintains high energy levels.
Flexibility
Flexibility is key in NYC’s fast-paced business world. Future-proof your workspace design with adaptable rooms that easily convert between meeting and office spaces. Modular furniture supports seamless reconfiguration for varying team sizes and functions.

Collaborative zones are integral to innovation and teamwork. Features like writable walls and mobile whiteboards encourage spontaneous brainstorms and collaboration, which enhance teamwork and communication. Prioritize flexibility to ensure your Manhattan office space remains productive and conducive to success.
Amenities and Decor
Productive workspaces rely on employee morale and well-being. Thoughtful amenities like wellness rooms, fitness centers, and lounges encourage mental health and productivity amidst NYC’s hustle.

Color psychology is vital in workspace design. Blues and greens in focus areas foster concentration and reduce stress, while yellows and oranges in collaborative zones spark creativity and teamwork. Thoughtful color selection boosts aesthetic appeal and engagement.
Biophilic design – like green walls and indoor plants – transforms urban workspaces, improves indoor air quality, and reduces stress. These elements foster a connection to nature, a feature often lacking in office space in Manhattan, to boost mood and promote health.
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