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

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 two different ideas together. Credit: Marissa Mayar Physical space has a huge impact on the way that we interact, converse and collaborate. More often than not, little thought is given to … Continue reading Introduction: Conversational Environments ** Designing places and spaces for good conversations

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Water Cooler Conversations ** Casual chat or gossip in the workplace

The office watercooler or coffee machine serves as an informal yet essential gathering point for employees. Throughout the workday, colleagues congregate around these stations under the pretense of obtianing a drink. However, the true purpose is connection through casual conversation. These watercooler or coffee machine discussions allow coworkers to check-in, share tidbits of information, and … Continue reading Water Cooler Conversations ** Casual chat or gossip in the workplace

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Corridor Conversations ** The magic of the hallway conversation lies in its spontaneity

The hallways of office buildings have long been places for chance encounters and impromptu conversations. As employees hurry between meetings or stop by the copy machine, they cross paths with coworkers from different departments. There is a unique opportunity for connection when they pass in the corridor. Though brief, these hallway conversations allow colleagues to … Continue reading Corridor Conversations ** The magic of the hallway conversation lies in its spontaneity