As a society, we’re getting better about talking about our mental health. But Dr. Upali Nanda, global practice director of research and partner at HKS, says we need to do more to be proactive about our brain health, the same way we go to the gym for our physical health. She’s sharing lessons learned from a living lab designed as a workplace for brain health. (<a href="https://www.steelcase.com/research/articles/creating-a-brain-healthy-workplace-with-upali-nanda-transcript/">Read transcript</a>) (Find in <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/work-better/id1179584196" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Apple Podcasts</a>, <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/6eVSfCrgudrfUlQeK2iKV6" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Spotify</a> or wherever you listen)

Why do we work? The answer might surprise you. Professor and author Barry Schwartz says it’s not just about a paycheck. In fact, he argues the way society thinks about work is broken. His research uncovers why people are unsatisfied and what factors can make us happier at work. (<a href="https://www.steelcase.com/research/articles/is-our-attitude-about-work-broken-with-barry-schwartz-transcript/">Read transcript</a>) (Find in <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/work-better/id1179584196" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Apple Podcasts</a>, <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/6eVSfCrgudrfUlQeK2iKV6" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Spotify</a> or wherever you listen)

Marcel Wanders Zio coffee tables bring a touch of playful elegance to your afternoons while enjoying a quick coffee on a busy day. Their rounded silhouette and sharp looks come in two sizes, so that you can find the right fit for any space!

The Knitty Lounge Chair by Nika Zupanc. A unique combination of scale and softness, this larger-than-life lounge chair is a real conversation piece. An eye-catcher made with extra-large ‘yarn’ that resemble giant ship ropes.

Ingrid Fetell Lee, author of Joyful, argues it’s possible to find joy in our physical environment even if we’re not feeling happy. She’s the founder of the website <a href="https://aestheticsofjoy.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Aesthetics of Joy</a> which empowers people to find more joy in life and work through design. Ingrid helps us understand how even small changes to our workplace can make a significant difference in how we feel. (<a href="https://www.steelcase.com/research/articles/sparking-joy-at-work-with-ingrid-fetell-lee-transcript/">Read transcript</a>) (Find in <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/work-better/id1179584196" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Apple Podcasts</a>, <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/6eVSfCrgudrfUlQeK2iKV6" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Spotify</a> or wherever you listen)

Is joy at work really possible? Yes it is and in this issue of Work Better we're sharing ideas about how to create spaces that help spark joy.

Designed to hug the body, the Fat Work Chair allows for multiple sitting positions while casters provide comfortable movement at work.

Noha, designed by Ludovica+Roberto Palomba, stands out for the sophisticated smooth lines of its backrest and its cleverly balanced seat that mimics a folded pillow.

Create lounge-based work settings that host teams and technology in comfort. Bix Lounge System with optional back screen creates space division while keeping the feel of an open, social environment.

Meet Skald, a modern yet classic lounge chair perfectly situated for composing poetry. Made in Italy with luxe fabrics paired with polished chrome or powder-coated steel frame creates an inviting silhouette for an architectural piece.

Simple, understated, welcoming. A steel tube frame is wrapped in natural rattan for a rustic, yet modern contour – a treat of a seat.

Flaunting a wafer-thin top and legs to there, Comeuppance always makes for a satisfying meal. Surprising tabletop leg detail ensures there’s never a dull moment. Powder-coated aluminum frame set to brave the elements indoors or outdoors.

The new life of work is about building relationships. With its modular collection of layered lounge furniture and screens, Ensemble breaks down barriers to create fresh connections—between comfort and function. Privacy and proximity. Meet the ingredients of the new gathering place, for all the places where people want to come together.

The Seed series embodies simplicity and timeless appeal with its sleek, minimalist aesthetic.

With great taste, our Aleta Executive chair has arrived to transform corporate spaces into sophisticated enclaves to feel inspired and comfortable. Available in multiple finishes and bases, the executive chair designed by Jaime Hayon allows you to combine two different materials in its interior and exterior, making it a unique piece to work with for long hours.

See how employees, encouraged to take action, are using the power of art to make workspaces more representative and foster a greater sense of belonging.