An intangible power emanates from the spaces in which we live and work. It touches and shapes our behavior, our perceptions, and our interactions. When designed well, a space can make you feel deeply appreciative (and, in my case, perhaps a little jealous) of the amazing people who can so artfully shape that kind of visceral experience. It was this same power that touched me when I made my first recruiting trip to California to join One Workplace as their Creative Director.
I knew I wanted to belong the moment I walked through the door. Perhaps it was the feeling of excitement from a long trip, or maybe it was jet lag, but something was happening. I sensed that I was much more than just a visitor to this place, and my gut told me this should be my home. Here was an organization that shared my values, spoke my language, and was doing the kind of work I wanted to be part of. I felt all of those things within the first few seconds of entering the office – before I had even met anyone.