Workspace design is about creating a space that facilitates productive and purposeful work while leaving room for creativity, customization, and personalization. For some it's an office, for others it's their home desk or dining table.
There are plenty of interior design factors that contribute to a positive workspace that encourages productivity and purpose: lighting, color, plants, art, food, seating, etc.
Poorly-designed workspaces can have a huge effect on work, with 46% of professionals indicating that their existing workspace heavily impacted their productivity.
Factors that impact creative thinking:
Noise
Noise is a serious detrimental factor to productivity and morale. If your workspace has been blessed by being located in a quiet neighborhood, outside noise is not a problem for you. If not, however, you might want to turn to some soundproofing solutions to reduce the distraction the surrounding traffic or nearby construction work creates. Noise-canceling headphones work well too, also for those employees who share their workspace but are distracted by others talking etc. This will not only impact your productivity but also what kind of work you can do at what times, such as conference calls or sales webinars. This will also impact your work hours.
Lighting
Lighting is one of the strongest factors in creating an optimal office design. Lighting affects many aspects of work life, from productivity to mental health to workplace safety. Knowing the right kind of lighting to introduce to a space can make all the difference. Natural light is integral to your body’s circadian rhythm, improves your mood, and boosts Vitamin D. Warm light (like lamps) can be more calming and inviting while cooler light can reduce fatigue and encourage collaboration.
Furniture
Being comfortable in a major factor for productivity and health. Palm rests and screen support for those working on the computer will prevent pain in their neck and wrists, so the morale remains high in the office. Even more importantly, ergonomic desks and chairs are essential in preventing back pain and all the health consequences it will bring.
Personalization
People are more productive when they can bring their full selves to the office. That goes for office decoration, clothing, and even desk trinkets. Make it easier to see your coworkers as individuals with their own identity, and build empathy by inviting them to bring their personality to their workspaces. It’ll decrease stress and help them feel more comfortable.
Flexibility
Think about meeting boxes, brainstorm islands, unconference rooms or communal tables, where groups of employees can get together and collaborate informally on projects, without having to book a meeting room.
We are sure more companies will see the benefits of providing flexible working spaces and implement them in their office design.
