with other implementers. Says Graham, âWe're just hoping to help make work a little brighter for everyone.â. Wunderm
Wunderman Memphis is First in Nation to Create Outdoor-Only Office Known for beer, barbecue, and blues, Memphis may not be the first ―outdoor lifestyle‖ city that comes to mind. But a local digital marketing agency is hoping to change that perception. Beginning today, Wunderman Memphis will be the first corporate office in the United States to host its employees in a permanent outdoor setting. This new office concept is the brainchild of agency leader Howard Graham, a dedicated triathlete and recreational hiker. ―After our agency‘s busiest winter season ever, I notice my staff looked unhealthy,‖ Graham explains. ―The majority of the employees were pale and drab, as though they hadn‘t been able to enjoy time outdoors in months.‖ At that point, he realized something had to change. ―I remember thinking, ‗I can‘t think of any days that aren‘t consistently perfect to be working outside in Memphis.‘‖ So Graham hired a private Memphis design firm to create his agency an outdoor-only office space. Graham collaborated heavily with the design firm on his concept, resulting in a well-thought-out installation that includes a variety of outdoor desk features — from personalized umbrellas and desk water shields to sun visors and rotating fans. ―Every employee station is outfitted with items needed to protect my staff from the elements without affecting their ability to enjoy the great outdoors,‖ Graham shares. ―We are really excited.‖ The new space does not include a kitchen area, but the design firm built the stations within walking distance of nearby water fountains to accommodate thirsty employees. Says employee, Ross Hornish, ――I like ‗water cooler‘ talk, and now it‘s like, every where‘s the water cooler!‖ Wunderman Memphis hopes to inspire other companies – on a local and national scale – to create outdoor work environments for their employees. And Graham has plans to start his campaign within his own network of Wunderman agencies. First on Graham‘s list? ―I think Wunderman Seattle would respond really well to this concept,‖ Graham excitedly shares. ―The northwest is a magnificent part of the country, and I feel like the employees there would be really receptive to the idea!‖ As a pioneer for the outdoor-only office, Wunderman Memphis hopes to share its experiences and successes with other implementers. Says Graham, ―We‘re just hoping to help make work a little brighter for everyone.‖ Wunderman is part of WPP (NASDAQ: WPPGY).
