Everyone had a favorite field trip in school. Maybe it was the zoo. Maybe it was the historical re-enactment town. For some, the field trip that stirred something in their soul was the art museum.
But it isn’t just the creatively inclined who are drawn to the arts; in fact, there is a deep psychological connection to aesthetics that scientists are only beginning to understand. An article titled “Your Brain on Art: The Case for Neuroaesthetics” cites Semir Zeki as the creator of the word “neuroaesthetics” in the late 1990s. The word refers to the study of how our brains are impacted by aesthetics and works of art.
The field of neuroaesthetics is vast. As “Your Brain on Art” notes, the burgeoning research can range from experiments to assess the power art and media can have on our quality of life to using IoT sensors that measure bio-circuitry when creating art. Some groups are extending this research to study the broader impacts on society by including areas like public health and engineering into the research.
Aesthetics have a profound impact on our mental health — and in the spirit of this emerging field of study, Built In Austin found two tech companies that pay careful attention to the “look” of the office in addition to how the workplace can impact employees’ mental health.
SciPlay is a developer and publisher of digital casino games.
Tell us about SciPlay Corp’s approach to the in-office experience. How are these elements emblematic of your team culture?
At SciPlay, the in-office experience is about fostering a vibrant and collaborative community. Our Austin studio reflects this with diverse workspaces, from focused individual desks to collaborative meeting areas, designed to enhance both productivity and social interaction. With a well-stocked kitchen, including multiple snack and drink options, coffee/tea bars and lounge areas, we have created a space where people feel cared for and equipped for success.
We believe in a balanced approach, offering flexibility while also nurturing strong team bonds.
Whether through themed lunches, happy hours or gaming tournaments, we bring teams together to celebrate milestones, share ideas and simply have fun. These moments help create an environment where our team members feel valued, connected and empowered.
In your opinion, what about your in-office experience feels the most impactful on your daily work life? What is your favorite part of the in-person experience?
The most impactful aspect of the in-office experience at SciPlay is the enhanced collaboration. The ability to spontaneously discuss ideas, seek immediate feedback and build rapport through casual interactions significantly boosts productivity and creativity. It feels more natural than a video call or a Slack message, and working in-person helps me feel more in tune to what’s happening across the office.
My favorite part of being in-office is the strong sense of community. Shared lunches, impromptu celebrations and casual conversations really create a supportive, team-focused environment. This fosters a feeling of belonging and makes the workday more enjoyable and fulfilling.
Is there anything you're looking forward to with the in-office experience?
I'm really looking forward to our annual spring family crawfish boil. It’s always a fun time to gather with colleagues and their families, share some great food and enjoy each other's company outside the usual work environment. It's a tradition that brings everyone together. There's something special about having the opportunity to connect on a more personal level outside of the office, and it's a reminder of how great our office culture is here at SciPlay.
Invoice Home is a billing and invoicing service for small businesses and freelancers seeking to grow their business or start a new one.
Tell us about Invoice Home’s approach to the in-office experience. How are these elements emblematic of your team culture?
Invoice Home makes the in-office experience very comfortable. Our office does a good job of providing us with the exact snacks and drinks we want, and anything we need for our desks. The company also provides benefits that no longer exist at other companies such as paid parking, great healthcare and brand new devices on your first day at work, just to name a few. “Ask and you shall receive” is Invoice Home’s in-office vibe.
In your opinion, what about your in-office experience feels the most impactful on your daily work life? What is your favorite part of the in-person experience?
At Invoice Home, we have actual work-life balance. We work from 9:00am to 5:00pm, with an hour lunch. This is unheard of at any other company I’ve worked with. I was used to working 80-hour weeks with no lunch. My mental health and happiness have greatly improved since working here.
Is there anything you're looking forward to with the in-office experience?
I am looking forward to the new state-of-the-art office we are expecting to move into Spring 2025. It will include everything an employee would want in a new space, from high-end interior design, a kitchen/bar, playroom, meditation room, gardens and a moss wall — not to mention the stunning views.
