Posted on

Wellness Ratings & The Office: Why it Matters

The global health crisis has undoubtedly highlighted the need for ‘healthier’ and safer buildings and public spaces. Now more than ever, people need a safer and healthier workplace. The ‘new normal’ presents an opportunity for companies to reevaluate the priorities for their employees and tenants and pivot towards a more sustainable approach in commercial real estate in the Philippines.

Driven by the growing consciousness and awareness of the public to the importance of such spaces, there is also an increasing appetite from investors and owners for buildings to implement more holistic measures which improve the spaces they offer to the public.

What is a Building ‘Wellness Rating’?

Wellness ratings aim to measure and recognize public spaces that provide utmost importance to the health and well-being of its tenants. These ratings are certifications that developers and property owners aspire to complete and achieve as a symbol of their commitment to building spaces that put a premium on the public’s welfare, especially in the new normal.

Wellness Ratings in the Philippines

In the Philippines, commercial developments can aim for LEED, BERDE, and WELL certifications to ensure the quality of spaces they construct and offer to the public.

LEED or the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Development is one of the certifications that buildings in the country can apply to ensure the safety, comfort, and security of the building’s occupiers.

Developed by the US Green Building Council (USGBC), it is an internationally recognized certification program that provides a third-party verification that a building was designed and built following strategies aimed to underscore the triple bottom line of sustainability: People, Planet, and Profit.

The ‘People’ concept of sustainability highlights the importance of the experience inside the building. It emphasizes how providing an ideal environment for occupants can contribute to their working performance, motivation, happiness, and its overall impacts on public health and society as a whole.

READ MORE: LEED’s Triple Bottomline: How JEG Tower @ One Acacia uplifts People, Planet, and Profit

BERDE, or the Building for Ecologically Responsive Design Excellence, is a tool to assess, measure, monitor, and certify the performance of green building projects in the Philippines. Developed by the Philippine Green Building Council, this rating aims to ensure green buildings perform and follow existing national and local building and environmental laws, regulations, and mandatory standards in the country.

WELL, on the other hand, is a performance-based system for measuring, certifying, and monitoring features of the built environment that impact human health and wellbeing. Commercial buildings and establishments are evaluated through various elements that contribute and affect holistic well-being of the public including air, water, nourishment, light, fitness, comfort, and mind.

Why is Wellness Important in the Office

Commercial developments and office buildings in the Philippines should aim to provide healthy and safe spaces for their tenants, employees, and occupants. Putting the public’s well-being on top of the priority will not only be a unique feature for an establishment but will also benefit the business in the long run.

Studies show that healthy and happy employees perform better and faster in the workplace, effectively increasing their output and boosting their motivation to work. Healthy workspaces also improve and maintain employee morale, fosters loyalty, and increase employee retention.

Moreover, a company that takes care of their employees by providing healthy and safe workspaces create a better and more ideal brand identity and reputation.

With its vision of Bringing Work to Life, JEG Tower @ One Acacia revolutionizes work and life balance by integrating sustainability and sophistication in its design and operations. Office spaces in this 22-storey commercial tower offer the best working environment, amplified by its unique green features and guided by LEED standards.

Interested to learn more? Connect with Lorenzo Rodriguez at (+63) 917-825-6884 to find out how you can locate your business in the best workplace in Cebu City.

Posted on

Workplace Re-Entry 101: Guide on how to pick the safest office for you

As the world learns to live and work in the new normal, most businesses are faced with the challenge of coming up with a strategy to ease the anxiety that comes with office re-entry. According to Swinburne University survey, only 5 percent of workers want to return to the workplace.

A picture containing text, person, window, person Description automatically generated

This is in contrast with the notion that more companies recognize the inevitability of the eventual return to a physical space for smoother conduct of business. Certain landlords have taken to heart the need to provide a safer workplace to meet the needs of employees.

Here is a rundown of characteristics to consider when locating to an office space amid the pandemic:

  • People first

Study shows that satisfying employee wellness and security should be the biggest priority through its amenities and design. Not only with this assist in recruit quality personnel but it will also allow for better productivity, and improve talent retention

In Cebu, JEG Tower @ One Acacia built with the people in mind, providing workspaces equipped with a state-of-the-art heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system that matches with a filtration layer to reduce the risk of viral transmission. It also keeps the environment conducive for work by allowing for natural light and ensuring the green amenities such as pocket gardens and the green roof are available for use.

  • Maximized automation, building technology

A sense of security in the workplace proves to be vital in any re-entry strategy. Reducing health risks or disease susceptibility can be implemented by leveraging technology and automation. Contact tracing activities for buildings or workplaces are also made possible through certain systems or tools that can assist in the overall management and monitoring of spaces.

JEG Tower @ One Acacia has converted its main entryways to automatic sliding doors to make it contactless. The building also stationed hands-free standing and desk temperature scanners to ensure the fitness of each employee or guest entering the premises.

More importantly, its Destination-Oriented Assignment System elevators do not only manage crowds, boost building security, but also assists in easier tracing or monitoring of foot traffic in the building.

RELATED: How JEG Tower ensures workplace safety

A picture containing text, computer, indoor, table Description automatically generated
  • Green Accreditation

The push for sustainability is a beneficial boost in pursuing occupant safety and health. Before the pandemic, green accredited estates have already been known to be built to the highest of standards to deliver not only the best workplaces but also to ensure environmental and physical health.

In the Philippines, JEG Tower @ One Acacia is given the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) pre-certified Silver accreditation. The premier office and commercial tower is also recognized as the Best Commercial Green Development of 2020 in the 8th PropertyGuru Philippine Property Awards. It is also highly commended in the Best Office Development category.

Beyond disease prevention and health protection, the new normal workplace must now take on a more holistic and integrated approach that takes the work process and hazard prevention into account. This approach allows for the implementation of measures to help promote healthier work environments equipped to cater to its occupants, improve the experience, and go above project standards.

Want the best workplace for your business? Contact Michael Glindro at (+63) 917-584-0443 or send an email to mike.g@kmcmaggroup.com.

Posted on

Qualities of a Great Office: Why JEG Tower @ One Acacia is the Best Workplace in Cebu

Cebu City is an established metropolitan capital of the Philippines in the Visayan region. Over the years, it has emerged as one of the economic centers of the country given its strategic location in the archipelago. As the Queen City of the South urbanized, more and more commercial developments have been catering to the growing demand for office and retail spaces posted by local and international companies expanding in the region.


JEG Tower @ One Acacia is the best place to work in Cebu City. Being recognized as 2020’s Best Green Commercial Development and shortlisted as this year’s Best Office Development, this upcoming Grade A building has the qualities of a great business address and office for your company.

RELATED: Choosing the Best Office Location in Cebu City

Great Business Location

JEG Tower @ One Acacia is located at Archbishop Reyes Ave. corner Acacia St., Cebu City. This strategic location captures the market from its neighboring central business districts, Cebu IT Park and Cebu Business Park. It is also situated along one of the city’s major thoroughfares.

This 22-storey landmark is right in the heart of Cebu City. JEG Tower @ One Acacia is easily located along the main road through its distinct façade and shape. It is near key establishments and amenities such as supermarkets, malls, hotels, and transport hubs.

Premium Green Building

Being the newest premium green building in the Cebu business district, JEG Tower @ One Acacia was designed and constructed using green materials and state-of-the-art technology. These are safeguards to ensure reduced negative environmental impacts and the promotion of its tenants’ health and well-being.

JEG Tower utilizes smart technology in its office, retail, and common spaces to protect its tenants from the threats of the virus. The commercial tower uses MERV-13 air filters and Fresh Air System for optimal indoor air quality. DOAS or Destination Oriented Allocation System Elevators are also one of the world-class green features of JEG Tower as part of its pledge to sustainability and green real estate.

Best place to work in Cebu

JEG Tower @ One Acacia offers office spaces with an open floor layout. This is easily customizable fo companies that would want the flexibility and the option to customize their workspace and reflect their culture through the space. There are also provisions for expansion that support the companies’ room for growth in the long run.

Each unit also has a provision to construct a shower facility. This will be available on the tower’s parking floor for the convenience of the tenants. This feature also serves as a disinfection or sanitation feature within the establishment as an additional safeguard against diseases and other health hazards.

Considering to locate your business in this award-winning green building? JEG Tower @ One Acacia’s showroom is now available for viewing! Contact Lorenzo Rodriguez at (+63) 917-825-6884 or send an email to lorenzo.rodriguez@kmcmaggroup.com. For leasing inquiries and more information, call us at (+63) 2-8403-5519 or send an email to info@kmcmaggroup.com.

Posted on

Choosing the Best Office Location in Cebu City

Being the center of economic activity in the Visayan Region, Cebu has emerged as the main driver of trade and business outside Luzon and Metro Manila. More than its bustling tourism and hospitality industry, Cebu City’s office and residential portfolio have grown over the years. Many local and multinational companies that are looking to expand their operations nationwide prefer to lease an office located in the Queen City of the South.

Cebu’s central business district is divided into two master-planned estates, namely Cebu Business Park and Cebu IT Park. Both offer a fair share of work, live, and play developments that promote a holistic lifestyle options for employees, students, and families. The Cebu CBD has evolved into a lifestyle destination at the center of the city, successfully integrating commercial, retail, and lifestyle concepts in one central hub.

With numerous options, how can companies choose the best office to lease in Cebu City? Here are some factors that you should consider:

Location

One of the most crucial considerations in finding the best office space for your business is its location. A great business address is easily located and accessible, not only by clients and potential customers, but also by its employees.

An ideal office location should also be near key establishments such as food stores, marketplaces, hospitals, malls, and public transport hubs. Companies can also consider its distance to their competitors or proximity to its partners within the area to make and execute strategic decisions better.

Building

Companies looking for the best office space for lease in Cebu should also consider the building and structure itself. Inquire about the added amenities and facilities that it offers and how they are maintained. An ideal office should be situated in a building that is well-kept and provides the support a business needs in order to grow and expand in the long run.

Another factor to consider is the building’s green and sustainability features. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, more people have given more importance to their health and well-being, even outside the comforts of their homes.

An ideal office location should be in a building that promotes a holistic approach to its tenants’ wellness. Green buildings are structures that are designed, constructed, and operates to reduce negative impacts on the environment and improve the health and well-being of its occupants.

Workspace

Space is arguably the most vital when choosing the perfect office for your business. Factor in the size of your company and the total amount of space you need to take up in order to function effectively and most efficiently. An ideal office space should also support the possibility of your company’s expansion and growth in the future.

Some businesses also prefer to have their company culture and identity be reflected in their workspace. This should also be one of your most important considerations as many studies prove that the workplace design significantly contributes to the innovation and productivity of the employees and the company itself.

Finding the best office space for your business can be challenging and overwhelming. However, with the right considerations and priorities in mind, choosing the most ideal workplace for your company should boil down to options that reflect your company values and culture, provide for your needs, and support your business goals. 

JEG Tower @ One Acacia is the newest office and commercial development in the heart of Cebu City. Named as 2020’s Best Green Commercial Development by the PropertyGuru Awards, the 22-storey LEED Pre-certified building is one of the most ideal office locations in Metro Cebu. It is also shortlisted as the Best Office Development by the same award-giving body.

Complementing sustainability with sophistication, JEG Tower @ One Acacia has invested in top-grade technology to provide the most ideal working environment and become the best workplace in Cebu for local businesses and multinational clients.

Want to locate in this world-class green building? Contact Michael Glindro at (+63) 917-584-0443. For inquiries and more information about JEG Tower @ One Acacia, call us at (+63) 2-8403-5519 or send an email to info@kmcmaggroup.com.

Posted on

Optimizing Buildings for Disease Prevention

The connection between health and the environment becomes increasingly defined as the world learns more about the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, this new coronavirus strain can be spread in three main ways:  

  • Person-to-person via direct contact;  
  • Person-to-person via airborne respiratory droplets produced when an infected person cough or sneezes;  
  • Surface-to-person via contact with surfaces or objects that hold the virus, followed by an individual touching their mouth, nose, or eyes.  

Buildings and public spaces play a huge role in disease prevention and control. From its design to operations, buildings contribute to the battle against the spread of viruses in workplaces and offices. 

Here are some modifications and optimizations buildings can adapt to prevent another pandemic in the future:  

Promote High-quality Indoor Air  

Buildings and commercial establishments should promote high-quality indoor air quality and follow a set of standards that focuses on the ventilation and air-conditioning system. This effectively provides clean air into the building and to the office spaces. Research suggests that filtration of recirculated air may be effective in reducing the transmission of airborne infectious diseases. Filters remove dust, vapors, bacteria, and fungi, and also effectively capture viral particles spread by droplet nuclei.  

RELATED: How Green Buildings improve indoor air quality, provide a healthier working environment  

Increased Ventilation  

Ventilating with outdoor air also plays a vital role in diluting airborne contaminants and decreasing disease transmission rates within establishments. According to studies, increasing the ventilation rate can effectively reduce the cross-infection of airborne transmitted diseases by removing or diluting pathogen-laden airborne droplet nuclei. It can dilute the contaminated air inside the space more rapidly and decrease the risk of cross-infection  

Maintained Optimal Humidity  

Evidence suggests that viruses survive better in low-humidity environments. One optimization buildings can implement after the pandemic is to increase humidity via heating and ventilation systems and maintain an optimal range to 40 to 60%. This can also be achieved by installing humidifiers inside the building premises.  

Improved cleaning and maintenance protocols  

Another aspect that buildings can focus on when optimizing for disease prevention is highlighting the importance of its property management teams. Workplace policies, guidelines, and protocols must also be restructured to adapt to the “new normal” as the world observe changes this pandemic brings. The modifications and strict enforcement of these procedures should be one of the most essential responsibilities of a building’s property management team during, and even after the crisis.  

A healthy building contributes to a healthy community, which, in the long run, play a central role in creating a healthy world. In addition to everyday precautions taken by individuals and employees, the real estate industry, building owners, and developers should be aware of these optimizations that can greatly contribute to virus outbreaks in the future. 

Posted on

How much office space does your business need?

One of the first things you must decide on when leasing an office is how much space your business needs to occupy in order to successfully operationalize. Unfortunately, there is no single formula business owners can use to compute the exact floor area they need to lease.

Consider the following factors instead:

Number and Types of Employees
The size of your future office should depend on the number and types of employees your company has. Consider the space they need in order to function productively and efficiently.

Office Layout
From stuffy and uniformed cubicle styled office layouts, workplace designs are now varied from open floor plans to colorful hubs that aim to be trendy and more functional. Open or traditional, which one are you going for?

Future of your business
In a few years, your business may have outgrown the space you’re planning on leasing. However, you need to have some forethought and decide where will your company be in the near future.

Beyond Offices

Your considerations for the size of your office should not end in allotting space for desks and computers. You should also think about shared spaces like meeting rooms, conference areas, and other venue where your employees can take a break and socialize. Studies show that providing your employees with ample space to take a break from work and away from their workstations improve their overall productivity and work ethics.

Company Culture

Lastly, you should account your identity as a company when deciding on how much space should your office occupy. Your company culture may manifest in the way you and your employees do and finish work, how you organize and communicate, and at the same time influence the dynamics that will take place in your office floor.

Posted on

JEG Tower @ One Acacia: Bring Work To Life this 2020

Work-life balance never looked this green! 

JEG Tower @ One Acacia is right on schedule. The building nears its top off in the 3rd quarter of 2019 and ready for turnover 1st quarter of 2020. Located at Arch. Reyes Ave. cor. Acacia Street, Cebu City, JEG Tower is set to be an icon among office buildings in the city with its environment-friendly features and sophisticated design. It is very near Ayala Center Cebu, Cebu’s biggest mall complex, as well as some of Cebu’s top hotels and residential condominiums, keeping up to its tagline “Bringing Work to Life.”  

JDC, the tower’s developer, partnered with Casas Architects, one of Philippines top architectural firms. Together, they aim to bring out its vision of sustainable buildings and keep up with the global trend on green real estate. JEG Tower @ One Acacia is a Grade A building and a definite future-proof structure in terms of design.  

JEG Tower @ One Acacia also aligns with the developer’s advocacy towards the environment by achieving LEED (pre-certified Silver), one of Cebu’s first buildings to achieve such distinction. 

The building also has several features to help achieve work-life balance for its tenants. Some of the amenities the building provides is a green rooftop terrace, chapel, shower rooms, and bike racks to promote wellness among its occupiers. The building is designed with the health and well-being of its occupants in mind. The building can also accommodate headquarters, shared service, and BPO office needs. 

Currently, the 22-storey building is in its pre-leasing stage for some of its office floors. Available spaces follow typical floor plate of 1,100 square meters which can be subdivided into 9 bare shell units with AC. 

JEG Tower @ One Acacia is definitely the office building of choice for all business sectors. Its occupants will surely benefit from the building’s amenities and the environment will also benefit from its sustainable design. 

For any leasing inquiries or viewing request, you may contact KMC on +632 403 5519 or email us at jegtower@kmcmaggroup.com.