Mediating between work and life is a task seldom completed amongst professionals across all workplaces, but with an increased emphasis on wellbeing, it looks as if that’s about to change.

One firm ahead of the curve is Sam Crawford Architects, who introduced a nine-day fortnight for its staff approximately 15 months ago. 

“The main benefit has been staff well-being. I think that everyone is a little happier. Happy people collaborate more. Happy people get things done. Happy people rise to a challenge,” says Director Sam Crawford.

“We named our day off ‘Mies Day’ after Mies van der Rohe of ‘less is more’ fame. 

“I had read about the four-day week being trialled in many organisations in Europe. The idea resonated with me at a particular moment. Architecture, or any work that you put your heart and soul into, can take its toll on your health, your sense of personhood. Sometimes you can lose yourself just keeping up with your commitments to work, family, and friends, maintaining a home.”

“I felt that a nine-day fortnight would be the right balance and suit our method of working and collaborating, better than a four-day week. Our full time staff now work nine days per fortnight instead of ten, with no drop in pay. We all take the same second Friday off together, which makes it easier for staff to actually take the day off. We haven’t looked back.”

The day off has been incredibly well received by staff, citing mental relief and a boost in creativity. Employees occasionally work on their ‘Mies’ day, but found it was an easier day given there were no meetings or expectations.

“Of course every industry has unique challenges - for us it was client contact and deadlines,” Crawford says. 

“Our clients have adjusted to it well. Public and commercial clients are used to the idea of a flexi day. Covid has taught private clients about flexible work arrangements. We all have mobiles and can always be contacted if there’s something really urgent.”

A six month trial was initially ran to ensure the decision to switch to a nine-day fortnight was the right one. The response was overwhelmingly positive.

According to an anonymous online survey, 100 percent of staff agreed or strongly agreed that they felt less stressed as a result of the working model. 92 percent agreed or strongly agreed that they could manage their workload.

Crawford says the switch has resulted in an uptake of applicants for positions within the practice.

“Our profitability has not been affected by the change and staff indicate their productivity levels have improved.”