Chill: Options for Decompression

Big Fish rooftop area

An outdoor area with a view of water provides an optimum opportunity for relaxation. Big Fish, Seattle. Photography © Sherman Takata.

Workplace stress is unavoidable, but there are options. Take a breather, decompress, and reset. Developing stress-squelching techniques benefit both wellbeing and productivity. Add some me time to your day and take a walk outdoors, read a book, chat with a friend, enjoy the view be it cityscape or nature, take a nap, listen to music—whatever it takes. As part of every project, IA always designs options for decompression.

Confidential Client, New York City

Chat with a friend and take in the view. Confidential Client, New York City. Photography © Magda Biernat.

Casual work areas at LinkedIn San Francisco.

Retreat to a booth or an enveloping chair. LinkedIn Headquarters, San Francisco. Photography © Eric Laignel.

Enjoy the recliner for a private moment. Big Fish, Seattle. Photography © Sherman Takata.

Hammock area, Barcelona.

Sunshine and hammocks are ideal options! Confidential Client, Barcelona. Photography © Jose F. Parreño.

Confidential client in Milan meeting space

Commandeer a sun-drenched huddle room. Confidential Client, Milan. Photography © Barbara Corsico.

Confidential casual work area.

Eternal spring inspires relaxation. Confidential Client, McLean, Virginia. Photography © Thomas McConnell.

Canine colleagues make it so much better. Confidential Client, San Diego. Photography © Benny Chan.

Taking a break will benefit your health and performance. It is a small act that generates significant benefits. And, of course, making sure to really take a break over the weekend will help ease you into the week to come.


IA is a global firm of architects, designers, strategists, and specialists. We focus exclusively on environments through the lens of interior architecture—a radical idea in 1984, when IA was founded. We are highly connected agents of change, committed to creativity, innovation, growth, and community.



IA is a global firm of architects, designers, strategists, and specialists. We focus exclusively on environments through the lens of interior architecture—a radical idea in 1984, when IA was founded. We are highly connected agents of change, committed to creativity, innovation, growth, and community.



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