Not Just a Place to Visit, a Place to Get Work Done
You might have visited our buildings, such as Memorial Union and Union South, for an event, an activity or to dine. But have you considered that our spaces are the perfect setting for your remote work or study?
According to a Forbes story, about 13% of full-time employees work fully remotely, and 98% of employees want at least some remote work time. Upwork estimates that, by 2025, 32.6 million Americans will work remotely.
We recognize this is a trend that is likely here to stay; surveys show employees are reporting higher productivity when they work remotely, companies and organizations are saving money on office space, and it’s nice to choose what your “office” looks like, creating a space that works for you.
The good news: our buildings have everything you need to get work done, whether you’re leading a virtual meeting, writing witty social media posts for your company, or studying for an exam. Here are some reasons why our spaces are the perfect place for your remote work and your studying:
- Strong, free WiFi: Connect to the UWNet network, and register as a guest for free, fast Internet. No affiliation with the University is needed.
- Lots and lots of outlets: Memorial Union was renovated, and Union South was built with ease of getting work done in mind, and this included the incorporation of electrical outlets everywhere! No awkwardly sitting against a wall that has no seating, because your laptop battery is running low. Be comfy while you power up.
- Lots of on-site dining options to fuel your productivity: We have coffee and espresso galore, many types of cuisine, and made-to-order as well as quick grab-n-go food options. No afternoon slump for you when our house-made deliciousness is close by. Try our hummus. It’s delicious and will give you a protein-packed boost!
- Beautiful spaces: Beautiful doesn’t begin to describe some of the spots you’ll find at our buildings. Looking for a lakefront spot? Oh, we’ve got you covered.
At Memorial Union, check out the Main Lounge on the second floor; Lakeview Lounge, the outdoor Terrace (during warmer months), der Rathskeller, and the Shannon Sunset Lounge on the first floor; and Mendota Lodge on the lower level. Yes. all of those places are separate, and all give you a lakefront view.
Union South boasts modern elegance with a design that exudes warmth and comfort. Some cozy spots we love include the booths and tables across from Prairie Fire, seating outside of Varsity Hall on the second floor, and the upper floor seating in Sett Pub, which is often available when the lower level is full.
The second and third floors of the building have chairs with a sunburst design for which we are famous, and they look towards Camp Randall Stadium. Additionally, there is a pavilion with couches, chairs, and tables giving a much needed shaded outdoor study and work spot. The ground floor outside of Union South has tables and chairs positioned next to a waterfall creating the perfect background sound for studying during warmer months.
- Quiet places: If you go up one floor above Peet’s Coffee at Memorial Union, you will stumble upon a nice, usually quiet seating area. This specific location could be considered a “two-for-one,” as there is an indoor seating area with comfortable, cushioned chairs as well as an outdoor area called Tripp Deck. Tripp Deck has a stunning view of Lake Mendota and the Red Gym. This less-explored spot is perfect for your next virtual work day or intense study session.
Go up one more floor on that side of the building, and you’ll find pockets of seating outside of meeting rooms and an area that is usually very quiet.
Another usually quiet seating area is on our third floor of Memorial Union. There, across from the Wisconsin Union Theater office, you’ll find a secluded alcove with a chair you can settle into for hours of work. This spot is serene and peaceful yet motivating. There’s a window that on a beautiful morning or afternoon will allow rays of sunshine into your space as you enjoy this hidden gem.
Don’t worry, even if you find yourself on the other side of campus there is no shortage of usually quiet work and study spots in Union South.
Over at Union South, head to the central part of the third floor. There, you’ll find a usually quiet working and studying oasis of seating. The second floor also boasts seating near the Marquee Theater. We have many types of chairs and table setups. You can Goldilocks and the Three Bears-it; try each area and seating until you find the one that’s just right for you.
Our buildings have a plethora of corners, cozy nooks and breathtaking spaces to be explored and used during virtual work days and study times, and it’s all paired with amenities that will help you make the most of your time. Visit us soon! Welcome to your remote work and study destination.
