BOMA New York: Wellness in the New York City workplace - by Patrick Dolan

As Manhattan’s commercial real estate landscape evolves, BOMA New York members are at the forefront of the movement to prioritize workplace wellness. This shift is more than just a passing trend – it is a fundamental reimagining of office environments that place employee health and wellness at the center of workplace design and operations. From state-of-the-art fitness centers to thoughtfully designed meditation spaces, these wellness-focused amenities are redefining what it means to work in New York City.

The integration of these amenities into commercial properties has increased in recent years, with building owners and managers recognizing that investing in employee well-being directly translates to leasing, improved productivity, and increased tenant satisfaction. BOMA New York members are leading this charge, implementing comprehensive strategies that address both physical and mental health.

Wellness amenities have become a critical differentiator in Manhattan’s competitive office market. To compete, properties are incorporating advanced air filtration systems, ergonomic workstations, and dedicated spaces for relaxation and rejuvenation into their office design. This approach aligns perfectly with post-pandemic priorities of employees, who increasingly see workplace health as non-negotiable.

Sustainability and wellness initiatives often go hand-in-hand. An example of this is The Durst Organization’s “Well& by Durst” program, which launched in 2017 before dedicated amenity floors were commonplace. Durst’s mission with this program was to create elevated hospitality-focused food, meeting, and event spaces. All Well& by Durst locations can be found within LEED Gold-certified buildings such as One Five One, One World Trade Center, and 825 Third Ave. This dual focus creates workplaces that are not only healthier for tenants, but also for the planet. 

As we look towards the future of New York City commercial real estate, it’s clear that these amenities will continue to evolve beyond luxury additions to becoming essential components for office spaces. Our members recognize that investing in employee well-being delivers tangible returns. By prioritizing this, BOMA New York members are creating workplaces where Manhattan’s workforce can thrive both personally and professionally.

The integration of wellness into commercial real estate is not just a business strategy but is a recognition of the connection between physical spaces and the people who occupy them on a daily basis. Through continued innovation and investment in these amenities, our members are ensuring that New York City remains a vibrant, healthy, and desirable destination for years to come.

Patrick Dolan, RPA, is chairman of BOMA New York.