Picture gray cubicle walls going on for acres under a low hanging fluorescent ceiling—corporate life in the 1990′s looked bleak and depressingly uninspired. While many a lively office space effectively adopted this gray grid in the name of efficiency—a layout so stark does nothing to add positive energy to the workplace. Simply put—it’s bad, both in terms of look, feel and energy.

The days of endless-grid offices are not behind us. But many businesses are moving toward a more open floor plan. Big businesses, especially large Internet companies understand the importance of creating a workplace that funnels positive energy instead of killing it. But there are still some classic figures from yester-office looming their ugly heads.

Whether you are planning a full office remodel, putting up your property for sale or just searching for new ideas, improving your office space is imperative. Take a look at two of the coolest office spaces around right now.

Google

Search superpower Google has office spaces around the world but their headquarters, the Googleplex, is particularly impressive. The buildings of the Googleplex alone take-up 47,308 square meters of soil in Mountain View, California. The entire campus is around 26 acres and encompasses Charleston Park as well as being accessible to Permanente Creek. This complex boasts far more than just extensive grounds. While I don’t think anyone currently lives in the Googleplex; it wouldn’t be difficult. The office houses several cafés and gyms along with more exotic elements. A hair salon, massage studio and “endless” pool are all ready for employee use.

Amenities like this help workers to blur the lines of work and play. That they are comfortable in their work environment certainly makes Google stand out. Their unique use of desk space however, is what Google is known for. Google offices across the globe are branded by flexible workspaces. Vastly differing rooms, extreme design motifs and themed rooms set the tone.

The pods pictured above are mini Google conference rooms, open to a steady flow of employees. The relaxed atmosphere keeps workers focused and creativity flowing.

Zappos

Zappos is another company that uses its office space to show off individual flair. While Google creates an exotic office space, it isn’t open to much customization. Zappos is quite the opposite. This company urges employees to decorate their cubicles however they see fit. The result can be a little chaotic, but is decidedly friendly. Not everyone would be able to work in such a busy environment, but the set-up does a lot to help employees be themselves.

Zappos counteracts the noise of their bustling office space with more toned down conference rooms. These nooks are designed to be comfortable, relaxing and even a little homey.

About the Author

Maire loves design. She can often be found scouring the Internet for DIY ideas in her over-stuffed apartment. Maire is a firm believer that less is not more. It is, in fact, just less. Her mom thinks she is a hoarder.

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