Genzyme HQ ‘creates sense of freedom’

Genzyme’s US headquarters in Massachusetts creates a sense of freedom by interspersing its office space with indoor gardens, it has been reported.

According to the Financial Times (FT), the company believes the small leafy areas reduce employee stress.

Senior corporate communications director Bo Piela told the publication: "It creates a sense of freedom.

"After a day in meeting rooms, talking with colleagues in a space surrounded by trees feels more relaxed."

Some 88 per cent of employees in a survey conducted by the firm agreed that the indoor woodland adds to their sense of wellbeing.

Adrian Norman of office design consultant Morgan Lovell noted that the building’s surroundings may also be responsible for keeping employees happy and in good health.

"There’s evidence that if you give people a view, they vary their focal lengths, which reduces eyestrain," he told the FT.

Genzyme states that it offers further benefits to its employees, including free private healthcare and help with relocating to be close to one of its UK offices.