The iThrive® Framework
I. Above the Water: The Visible Layer (The "What") This is what most designers focus on - it’s the aesthetic "mask" of the company.
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II. Below the Water: The Strategic Foundation (The "Why" & "How") This is where MetteSpace add its special value and expertise. It’s the neurological and cultural engine of the space.
"Growing up in Denmark, I learned early on that design isn't a luxury or a 'perk' - it is a fundamental human right. In my culture, we have a word, Arbejdsglæde, which literally translates to 'work-joy.' It is the belief that the spaces where we spend our lives should not only function but should actively contribute to our well-being, our trust in one another, and our collective success.
For twenty years, I have brought this philosophy to North America, but I’ve realized that most organizations are only looking at the 'tip of the iceberg.' They invest in trendy furniture and open-concept layouts—the visible 10%—and wonder why their culture still feels fragmented and their people feel drained.
At MetteSpace, we dive deeper.
The iThrive® framework was born from the realization that a workspace is a hidden resource. Beneath the surface of every floor plan lies a complex ecosystem of neuroscience, psychological safety, and human behavior. If those submerged elements aren't aligned with your mission, the most beautiful office in the world will remain an uninspired detriment to your growth.
My mission is to help leaders stop viewing real estate as a facilities expense and start seeing it as their most powerful cultural asset. Whether in a home, a high-growth startup, or a global institution, we don't just design rooms. We design the foundation for greatness."
- Mette Johansen Keating Founder & CEO, MetteSpace
Designing physical environments alone cannot directly influence business outcomes. Design is about directly affecting people.
If you want impact. You have to start there - with people. Luckily, this is where consious leadership lives. We start with you, and take it upon ourselves to translate your business objectives into physical space strategies that drive outcomes through and for you and your people.
Building trust is deeper than a smart logo plastered on the wall; it’s about connection to people and the energy we’re working with as human beings.
Purpose as a foundational driver of integrated design removes barriers and drives inspired action. To be drawn into space is to feel it's purpose.
Sharing, collaboration and human connection are at the root of why we gather. Spaces where we gather should organically draw us to each other.
People long to be engaged, included and needed. Workspace should exude your mission to be absorbed and shared by all that cross the threshold.
Core values are far more than posted words and statements. Integrated into materials, flow, energy and space, they inspire authenticity of mission.
Workspaces, like organisations, are living, growing, dynamic environments. Plant the seeds and nurture workspace continually for healthy growth.
The Goal: To uncover the "Hidden Resource" of your current space.
Best for: Clients that has a current space but feels it has more potential 5% change 20% impact
The Goal: A total alignment of brand, culture, and architecture
Best for: Clients that are looking to take on new space or renovate exisitent space.
The Goal: To ensure your workspace evolves as fast as your company.
One size does not fit all when it comes to performance. uThrive™ is a specialized design for individuals and staff who need a home environment that aligns with who they are and how they work.
Bring the iThrive® philosophy to your next event or leadership retreat. Mette shares visionary insights on the intersection of neuroscience, Scandinavian design, and the future of work to inspire lasting organizational change.
iThrive for all! Charity / Not for Profit? See if our program is a fit.
Why do you need a roof over your head? Working, living, serving, healing, creating... Space should be full of purpose and intent. Identity and Inspiration. It's a trap to just assume you need a roof and to spend time under it. Your space speaks to you on many levels. It's best to have it say things that improve the time you spend there.
