Designing for Connection and Community in the Workplace
The facilitation of collaboration at work is core to bringing people together and having a positive impact on mental health
The role of space in mental health
Mental Health Week 2025 spotlighted the power of community—and it got us thinking. At Trifle*, we’ve always believed that great workplace design goes beyond function; it creates moments of connection, encourages collaboration, and responds to how work—and workers—are evolving. This week, we’re reflecting on the spaces we’ve shaped to do just that.
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1. Community is Not a Buzzword—It’s a Necessity
In an era where remote and hybrid working has shifted the way we interact, designing for community is more critical than ever. People don’t just come to the office for a desk—they come for each other.
2. Design as a Social Catalyst
Spaces can either enable or block human interaction. Thoughtful layout planning, communal areas, shared rituals (yes, even the office tea round), and inclusive design all help cultivate a sense of belonging.
A multi-purpose space at MVF Global mean that people can interact in various ways in the same area
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3. From ‘Workplace’ to ‘People-Place’
The most successful workplaces today function more like community hubs than traditional offices. They allow for spontaneity, support mental health, and prioritise comfort and authenticity over corporate polish.
4. Flexibility is Fundamental
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Designing for different work styles, energy levels, and social needs (especially neurodivergent needs) ensures a workspace that works for everyone. Variety = vitality.
5. Mental Health is Part of the Brief
Connection is key to wellbeing. Spaces that encourage conversation, moments of pause, and a sense of psychological safety can play a huge role in reducing stress and isolation at work.
Author: Emma Morley, Director, Trifle*
Emma founded Trifle* in 2010 after a career in marketing, event design and production. Frustrated by the fact that only advertising agencies had inspiring spaces she had a desire to make good design the norm for all office workers. Emma has worked across well over 150 interior projects during her career at the helm of Trifle*, she remains passionate about making amazing spaces but also making the industry more accessible, more human and more diverse.
