Chapter: Conversational Environments


If a building doesn’t encourage [collaboration], you’ll lose a lot of innovation and the magic that’s sparked by serendipity.

So we designed the building to make people get out of their offices and mingle in the central atrium with people they might not otherwise see.

Credit: Steve Jobs

In this chapter, I explore the concept of conversational environments and how physical space impacts conversation.


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Introduction: Conversational Environments ** Designing places and spaces for good conversations

Walking Conversations ** The Watercooler Effect Close Pop-up all posts in this chapter What’s the Vibe? Please be patient as this may take up to a minute to load… Close People are more productive when they’re alone … but they’re more collaborative and innovative when they’re together. Some of the best ideas come from pulling … Continue reading Introduction: Conversational Environments ** Designing places and spaces for good conversations

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The Watercooler Effect How casual office chats strengthen connections and culture

Introduction: Conversational Environments ** The Value of Hallway Conversations Close Pop-up all posts in this chapter What’s the Vibe? Please be patient as this may take up to a minute to load… Close The water cooler or coffee machine serves as a key gathering spot in the office. Employees meet here for more than just … Continue reading The Watercooler Effect How casual office chats strengthen connections and culture

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The Value of Hallway Conversations The magic of the hallway conversation lies in its spontaneity

The Watercooler Effect Walking Conversations ** Close Pop-up all posts in this chapter What’s the Vibe? Please be patient as this may take up to a minute to load… Close Office hallways have traditionally been spaces for quick, informal exchanges among colleagues. However, these brief interactions often go underutilized. By embracing the potential of these … Continue reading The Value of Hallway Conversations The magic of the hallway conversation lies in its spontaneity

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Walking Conversations ** Walking ...

The Value of Hallway Conversations Introduction: Conversational Environments ** Close Pop-up all posts in this chapter What’s the Vibe? Please be patient as this may take up to a minute to load… Close Next time you have a one-on-one meeting, make it into a “walking conversation”. Research shows that walking improves your creativity – never … Continue reading Walking Conversations ** Walking …