The design of an office space goes far beyond aesthetic appeal; it plays a crucial role in improving employees' mental health, well-being, and overall productivity. A thoughtfully designed workspace brings substantial benefits to both employees and the organization. Keep reading to find out more.
The rise of workspace design
Does the modern office need to qualify for a spot in Architectural Digest, or is it just a venue for hard work? The answer probably doesn’t come as a surprise: it's somewhere in between. Workplace design is crucial, not only for aesthetic reasons but also to improve employee health, well-being, and productivity. Backed by science, interior designers strive to create trendy and comfortable spaces with high functionality.
The benefits are many:
- Increased productivity and innovation
- Reduced stress and disturbances
- Less sickness absence
- A stronger sense of community and collaboration
- A more sustainable workplace
- Strengthened employer branding
How to design a workplace for wellbeing and employee productivity
Designing productive and inspiring spaces might sound like a hassle, but the good news is that there are many possibilities. This means you can start on a small scale and mix and match as you please. Removing fixed walls and installations is, of course, a tougher nut to crack, but the suggestions below can also serve as a future wishlist for the next time the company is looking for a new office space.
Open spaces
The use of open spaces has increased in popularity, as providing an office with a view works wonders for motivation and productivity. In urban areas, a window seat is unfortunately not available to everyone, so old office cubicles have been removed to increase the amount of open spaces.
With more open areas, people can look away from their screens and out the windows. This gives their eyes a chance to readjust and not be focused on a single point from 9 to 5. Staring at a screen for too long strains the tiny muscles around the eyes and prevents regular blinking, which may cause fatigue, migraines, and dry eyes.
As a bonus, seeing other groups of people working together from a distance can increase psychological safety and connection. Combined with plants and creative artworks, the view becomes even more pleasant. Air quality is also improved when people aren't crammed together in closed spaces.
Lately, concerns have been raised that open spaces can increase interruptions, but this can be avoided by offering both open spaces and rooms where employees can work in solitude.
A generous number of collaborative spaces fosters teamwork and innovation. These spaces should be equipped with digital screens, whiteboards for brainstorming sessions, and comfortable furniture.
Modern smart office solutions take the stress out of the flexible office. They enable hybrid workers to easily book a desk for the day and choose whether they prefer to work in private or team up with other ambitious colleagues in a meeting room.
Digital tools
When designing an office for health and productivity, it is also important to be mindful of the digital landscape. Excel is an effective tool, but there are also apps and programs that enhance the digital landscape alongside the physical office environment.
Bright-colored, minimalistic, and user-friendly interfaces make it easier to navigate and keep track of different tasks. For the majority of employees, visual elements are helpful and increase motivation.
Ergonomics
Bending over backwards is usually rewarded at work, but it doesn’t mean your back has to hurt. Companies that emphasize ergonomics typically have happier and healthier employees. Everything from comfortable lounge sofas to office chairs - the options are endless.
The idea is to combine different kinds of desks and seats so that employees can move around and pick a spot depending on their current task. A low-seated couch is perfect for drinking coffee with a trusted colleague, and a high bar table is great for checking in with the team leader before resuming work. Pilates balls or bean bags are also suitable for a flexible office.
Height-adjustable desks are a must in a flexible office, catering to people of different heights. An adjustable desk makes it easier to go from sitting to standing. The human body is not meant to be seated all day. By standing up, you can increase blood circulation and put less strain on your neck, back, and hips. Why not combine it with stretches and some light movement?
The use of colors
Colors have a significant impact on how we feel, affecting our mood and energy differently. Hues such as green or blue are said to increase relaxation and focus, whereas yellow can boost creativity and happiness. As a general rule, offices look good in muted colors such as beige, brown, or light green, but a pop of color can also be added to mix things up. What you don’t want is a sterile, white office that feels uninspiring and hospital-like.
Biophilic design
Biophilic design involves incorporating natural elements such as plants, water, and natural lighting into workspaces. Natural light is said to regulate our circadian rhythms and provide an energy boost in the office. Green plants make us feel more in touch with nature, bringing a sense of calm. Why not add some elements of drizzling water, like a small water installation in the lunchroom or a relaxing lounge?
Noise reduction
Noise inside the building and entering from outside can cause interruptions and annoyances. If the office building is next to a crowded and busy street, sounds from traffic and passersby can negatively affect the working environment.
There are usually two solutions to this problem: 1) fewer work desks in that particular space, and 2) soundproofing the windows that face the street.
Another problem is noise coming from within the space itself. It is generally a good idea to place desks away from high-traffic areas such as the reception, hallways, lunchrooms, and restrooms. Also, avoid placing printers/copiers, HVAC equipment, or other buzzing machines close to employees' workspaces.
Sound tends to travel from conference rooms and smaller rooms to adjacent spaces, disturbing other coworkers. Employees may find it hard to have private conversations without being overheard. When designing the office layout, efforts should be made to reduce internal noises as well. Acoustical ceilings and furniture with sound-absorbing surfaces are recommended.
By adding textiles such as drapes, wall panels, or non-allergenic rugs, more sounds are absorbed when people move throughout the building.
Not all sounds can be eliminated, but most employees prefer a little bit of soothing background noise.
Make an effort to create a comfortable office environment
To sum it up, the office environment is not just a backdrop for hard work but a vital component of a healthy and innovative workforce. All senses should be taken into consideration in the modern office - smell, hearing, vision, and touch. By being aware of how colors, acoustics, lighting, and furniture work together, companies can create a tranquil and productive environment.
Want guidance on how to set up your hybrid office for success?
Feel free to schedule a meeting with one of our product experts to learn more about our solutions and how technology can help you streamline your office processes without interfering with employees' day-to-day work.