If the Great Resignation was the storm that shook up the workforce, the Great Gloom is the cloudy aftermath. It’s what happens when employees physically return to uninspiring workplaces that lack clarity, comfort and connection. Picture it: a sea of gray cubicles, disconnected teams and staff unsure why they’re even there. That’s not just unfortunate—it’s avoidable.
At Relocation Strategies + Relo Design, we know that the right workplace design can be a powerful antidote to disengagement. With over two decades of experience reimagining offices to elevate productivity and morale, we help organizations transform their spaces into environments that banish the gloom and welcome back the spark.
Bring Back Purpose Through Intentional Design
One of the most overlooked causes of workplace disengagement is a lack of purpose. When employees walk into a space that doesn’t support their roles, they start to feel aimless. Design can either reinforce or undermine a purpose.
Our first step is to give employees a sense of belonging through intentional, functional spaces. This includes individual desks to ground people in their work, collaborative huddle areas to foster quick innovation and thoughtfully appointed conference rooms that support strategic alignment. Purposeful zoning not only enhances flow—it tells employees, “You’re valued here, and this space was designed with you in mind.”
As CEO, Melissa St. John often says, “When people feel like they have a place, they find their purpose again.” You can learn more about the psychology behind this in our blog, which explains how the physical layout impacts emotional connection in the office.
Prioritize Mental Health and Flexibility
A growing number of employees aren’t just looking for a job—they’re seeking balance, well-being and a space that supports their mental health. That’s where wellness-focused design comes into play.
Today’s top workplaces are embracing hybrid models, and for good reason. Most employees prefer the flexibility of remote and in-office work, and hybrid models provide the best of both worlds. We specialize in designing hybrid-ready workplaces that empower employees to do their best work, whether they are in the office or working remotely.
And it’s not just about flexibility. Creating zones for restoration, mindfulness and quiet focus can boost emotional well-being and overall job satisfaction. Our designs incorporate these elements without sacrificing functionality or style.
Want proof that wellness matters? Research shows that workplaces that support psychological safety—spaces where employees feel safe sharing ideas, asking questions, or admitting mistakes—see improved engagement, trust and even profitability. Learn more about this in our blog on designing psychological safety into your workplace.
Let Employees Be Heard with Data-Backed Design
Designing to fight the Great Gloom doesn’t mean guessing what your employees want, it means asking them directly.
Our proprietary Workplace Productivity Analysis® is a game-changing survey tool that gives your employees a voice and provides you with actionable data. With custom-designed questions tailored to your team’s needs, we uncover what’s working, what’s not and what’s missing. From there, we develop a workplace strategy that reflects the real preferences and productivity patterns of your people.
This isn’t your average employee survey. The Workplace Productivity Analysis® has been shown to increase employee engagement and productivity by up to 25%. And when employees feel seen and heard, they’re more likely to bring their whole selves to work.
Change Doesn’t Have to Be Chaotic
Even the most well-intentioned workplace upgrades can create stress if not managed correctly. That’s why Relocation Strategies + Relo Design handles every step of your physical transition—so you don’t have to.
Our expert team offers comprehensive Project Management and Move and Change Management services. We minimize disruption, communicate clearly with your staff and manage logistics with precision. The result? A seamless experience where your business can continue operating while your space gets transformed behind the scenes.
And because we’re vendor-neutral, our recommendations are 100% tailored to your goals, not tied to a specific supplier or product line. You can trust us to deliver the best solution for your people, your budget and your vision.
Don’t Let the Great Gloom Win—Let Relo Light the Way
The Great Gloom is real—but it’s not unbeatable. With the right design, communication and strategy, your workplace can become a space where employees feel energized and supported.
At Relocation Strategies + Relo Design, every organization deserves a workplace that reflects its purpose and values. Whether you’re moving, renovating, or just ready for a fresh perspective, our team is here to help.
Request a consultation today and discover how we can help you design a workplace that keeps your team engaged, productive and anything but gloomy