
Have you ever noticed how in many European offices, everyone vies for the coveted desk near the window — while in some parts of Asia, employees don’t necessarily share that enthusiasm? It turns out there’s a fascinating cultural backstory. Let’s unpack the historical and cultural reasons behind this surprising difference.
The Curious Contrast
A bright, sunlit window seat is a symbol of status in many Western workplaces. Employees relish the idea of looking out at the city, nature, or just the sky, all while receiving ample natural light. Yet in parts of Asia — particularly in more traditional corporate cultures — getting that prime window spot might be viewed with suspicion and even fear.
Why the stark difference? A lot of it boils down to organizational traditions and cultural symbolism — with a specific Japanese concept called “madogiwazoku” (窓際族), or “the tribe by the window,” leading the way.
The Japanese Phenomenon: “Madogiwazoku”
In Japan, the term “madogiwazoku” has historically referred to employees who have been sidelined in the company. These individuals are often physically placed by the window — a symbolic way of distancing them from the center of operations.
End of the Road? Being relegated to the “window seat” can imply that you’re approaching retirement or that you’re no longer central to the company’s strategic projects.
Feeling Invisible. It may also signal to others that you’ve been quietly ushered out of the crucial decision-making loop—a place where those with minimal responsibilities can “wait out” their remaining years.
This negative connotation creates understandable anxiety among workers in Japan, and to some extent in other East Asian cultures influenced by similar hierarchical traditions.
Hierarchical Layouts in Asian Offices
While most parts of Asia have adopted modern office designs, some still value a more traditional, hierarchical office setup:
Private Offices for Higher-Ups. Many offices in Asia prefer private rooms for senior executives. Whether they have a window seat or not, having a separate office signifies authority and exclusivity.
Prime Spots for Key Players. Desks near managers or in centrally located areas are often seen as prestigious. Being close to the “action” signals that you’re a key player in the organization.
Edges = Isolation. Conversely, desks along the outer edges or near windows can imply a form of isolation or demotion, even if not officially stated.
Cultural Nuances. In certain parts of Asia, it’s not just about placement but also the direction you face. Concepts like Feng Shui can dictate what’s considered good or bad luck when it comes to furniture arrangement. Some people feel uneasy with their backs to windows (or doors) due to traditional beliefs about vulnerability and negative energy.
Why Europeans Love the Window Seat
On the flip side, the window seat in Europe (and much of the West) comes with positive connotations:
Natural Light. Long, dreary winters make sunlight precious in parts of Northern Europe, so a desk with a view is often seen as a mood-lifter and productivity booster.
Open Office Vibes. Many Western workplaces embrace open-concept layouts to foster collaboration. Large windows and bright spaces are central to this design philosophy, making window seats highly sought-after.
Egalitarian Spaces. In more egalitarian or flat organizational structures, there’s less emphasis on literal “corner offices” for hierarchy, and more on well-being. A desk near the window is often considered an earned perk, not a quiet punishment.
Shifting Attitudes

Modern, Globalized Workspaces. As office spaces become more international and contemporary in their design — especially in major urban centers across Asia — the negative stigma around window seats is gradually diminishing. Startups and multinational companies in cities like Tokyo, Singapore, and Hong Kong are incorporating more light-filled, collaborative environments that are reminiscent of Silicon Valley or European tech hubs.
Remote and Hybrid Work. The growing trend of hybrid or remote work also plays a role in transforming seating hierarchies. With many employees splitting their time between home and the office (or choosing to work remotely full-time), concerns about who gets which seat may fade. Instead, employees might have hot-desking setups or choose a different seat each time they come in.
The Influence of Natural Light on Work
Regardless of cultural differences, there is a growing consensus across the globe that natural light plays a significant role in workplace satisfaction and productivity. Natural light has a big impact on how we feel and work.
Boosted Mood & Reduced Stress. Exposure to natural light helps regulate serotonin levels, positively affecting mood and overall mental health.
Circadian Rhythm. Bright, naturally lit workspaces help stabilize the body’s internal clock, leading to better sleep and less daytime fatigue.
Clearer Thinking. Studies suggest employees in well-lit areas report fewer headaches, less eye strain, and improved concentration.
Higher Engagement. When workers feel comfortable, they’re more engaged, creative, and able to focus on tasks.
Conclusion
Office culture is evolving. As workplaces worldwide move toward more open, flexible designs and hierarchical traditions loosen, the fear of being labeled “window tribe” is waning. And for many younger employees in Asia, the appeal of having a bright, sunny view is quickly outshining any lingering negative associations.
Ultimately, whether you consider a window seat a “perk” or a “penalty” may just depend on your cultural lens and the organization’s corporate tradition. But as times change, one thing’s for certain: there’s likely a seat (window or otherwise) for everyone’s preference in tomorrow’s more flexible offices.