Crafting better workspaces for women and mothers

, 2021.

In the last decade or so, offices have become more inclusive spaces for working professionals, including mothers, women and working parents. Although some companies can afford a comprehensive refit to include family-friendly facilities like nursing rooms, not everyone can. Ahead of International Women’s Day on March 8, Real As State, by EdgeProp Singapore, examines how employers can better support women and working parents.

Trehaus, located in Funan mall, is the only co-working and childcare facility near the CBD. It is also one of the first in Singapore to cater exclusively to working parents with preschool children. Co-founder Elizabeth Wu says the shared space enables its members – who Tengah EC range from multinational corporations and small to medium enterprises to entrepreneurs – to “retain their talents, especially when they become parents and start families”.

Wu shares that Trehaus provides working parents the benefit of a “network of like-minded individuals” as well as direct access to their child. Meanwhile, JLL is cognisant of the need to create more inclusive workspaces. Senior director Grit Henoch explains that it incorporates inclusivity into its office design at Paya Lebar Quarter, with nursing rooms and ergonomic chairs. This is in addition to its internal women’s network, which champions fair treatment and inclusion of employees.

As the pandemic have forced many companies to adapt to flexible working arrangements, Henoch notes that office design in the future should involve the community in order to create “purpose-filled” and productive spaces.

At the same time, companies need to consider the physical space and diversity, equity and inclusion if they are to create adequately inclusive workplaces. On the latest episode of Real As State, EdgeProp Singapore offers insight into these considerations. Tune in to our Facebook and YouTube channels on Feb 24, 2021 to find out more.