THIS WEEK

A New Mindset: Designing Space to Create a Cognitive Advantage

Modern work is pushing our brains to the brink, draining people’s creativity and focus. Steelcase research and top neuroscientists shows that visual clutter and noise in today’s offices, especially in open plans, quietly eats away at our ability to think clearly. Surprisingly, small design tweaks can be a big help. Even something simple like visual privacy gives the brain a break from constant “threat‑monitoring” and can boost performance. The workplace can be a powerful cognitive tool that protects attention, supports brain health, and helps people do their best thinking in an AI‑driven world.

WELLBEING

Listen: The Case For Building ‘Brain Capital’ (And How to Do It)

The Work Better podcast with Dr. Harris Eyre digs into the idea of “brain capital,” exploring why protecting cognitive capacity is now a business imperative. We discuss ideas for healthy brain practices and why the workplace is key to addressing this global challenge.

DESIGN

Solving the Workplace Puzzle: 4 Research-Backed Takeaways

Steelcase data show a widening gap between how offices are designed and how people actually collaborate. Oversized meeting rooms sit empty while small, flexible spaces are consistently packed. The findings point to a shift in work patterns as organizations look for environments that better match the real rhythms of teamwork today.

WORK BETTER PODCAST

Our 47-Second Attention Span

SEASON 5 / EPISODE 3

Are you struggling to focus? New research suggests you might not even finish reading this paragraph! Our attention spans are shorter than ever, affecting our work and health. But, there’s hope. Author and psychologist Gloria Mark shares insights about why our attention is so fragmented and offers practical tips to improve focus and productivity. Slow down, set the audio speed to 1X, and listen to the Work Better podcast to explore ideas for a more attentive and productive work life.

New & Notable

Places and products that work better

SEATING

Meet Brin by AMQ: Beautifully Built for Busy Spaces

When meetings change, teams shift and rooms are in constant use, the right seating makes all the difference. Meet Brin by AMQ — a modern chair designed by Alessandro Piretti that works as hard as your spaces do. A fiberglass‑reinforced shell and steel frame options deliver long‑term performance, while a slim profile and neutral finishes make it easy to integrate across a wide range of environments.

Let’s help make work better.