Not having a clear vision and strategy fot the workplace. Too often, business leaders try to create an attractive work environment by pursuing a set of cool ideas like setting up a dazzling lounge area with a pool table and bean bags, and installing trendy artwork.

Innovation Happens When You Don't Plan It

The Story of LEGO

November 28, 2024 I Izabela Eržen

Photo: Žiga Ivanc

Innovation thrives in environments that allow for spontaneity and creativity. Some of the most groundbreaking ideas emerge from unstructured, informal moments. Think of the infamous

Water Cooler Conversations

, where people who may not often interact have an ad hoc chance to connect. 

At WDC24, Keynote Speaker Jesper Toubøl emphasized the importance of encouraging these moments and how creating informal spaces in the workplace supports diverse ways of working. Here’s how you can integrate innovation into your workspace:

The Importance of Informal Spaces
A LEGO Case Study

If you are like me, you will appreciate one of the best ideas I heard from Toubøl. It discusses how in today’s office design, cafés and coffee corners are more than places to grab a drink; they are hotspots for spontaneous conversations and idea-sharing. These spaces encourage employees to leave their desks, relax, and connect in a casual, comfortable environment. 

Graphic: The LEGO Living Room, Jesper Toubøl, @LEGO

Whether it’s a quick exchange of ideas between colleagues from different departments or an impromptu discussion with a manager, these informal moments spark creativity in ways that formal meetings often cannot. 

Graphic: Community Kitchen, Jesper Toubøl, @LEGO

At the LEGO HQ, cafés and coffee spots drive innovation by removing the pressure to perform. Without the constraints of a formal setting, people feel more open to sharing creative ideas and exploring new thoughts. Some people might feel too much pressure in a larger meeting setting, so an impromptu one-on-one conversation might be exactly what they need to open up. When people feel comfortable, they are more likely to share ideas openly and take creative risks

An Inspiring Environment

Toubøl calls attention to workplace design as a key lever for innovation and creativity. Strategically placed cafes, kitchens, or casual seating areas can boost cross-team interaction. Ensuring these spaces are accessible to all departments guarantees interactions between employees who might not typically work together. 

Imagine walking into a cozy café within the office, where designers, developers, and production staff can gather informally throughout the day. While someone in production may not often have an opportunity to discuss an idea with senior management, this relaxed atmosphere creates the perfect opportunity.

Picture of Izabela Eržen

Izabela Eržen

Izabela is a passionate advocate for innovative workplace strategies, and also serves as the marketing face of Kragelj Architects. With a degree in Architecture, Urbanism and Building Sciences from TU Delft in the Netherlands, she brings a unique and forward-thinking perspective to the company's clients and projects.

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Picture of About Jesper Toubøl:

About Jesper Toubøl:

Jesper Toubøl, Vice President at the LEGO Group, leads the Danish division of the company’s molding and qualification factory, overseeing advanced mass production and the maturation of new technologies. He has driven significant innovations in product design and production equipment, leading the establishment of engineering centers in Singapore, Mexico, and Denmark. Focused on implementing LEGO's business vision, Jesper integrates innovatively designed manufacturing and business facilities, breakthrough technologies, and talented teams to achieve success.

Some of the most groundbreaking ideas emerge from unstructured, informal moments.

When people feel comfortable, they are more likely to share ideas openly and take creative risks. 

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