How office design affects productivity

Over the past year, people have taken the time to reflect about how they work best and what makes them more productive. As people return back to their office, albeit in a hybrid capacity, the influence on office layout on productivity has taken on a greater importance. 

In February 2022, the most common hybrid working pattern that workers planned to use was working mostly from home, and sometimes from their usual place of work. 42% reported this, which is an increase from 30% in April 2021. 

A well-planned office can make it easier for people to complete tasks more effectively, work together more collaboratively and have a positive effect on their health and wellbeing.

As we spend almost 90% of our time indoors, a quality office design can lead to a less stressful and more productive atmosphere. Employees need to feel comfortable and calm in their physical work setting to produce their best work.

How can an office design improve productivity?

Health and wellbeing

According to the International WELL Building Institute (IWBITM), workplace design that considers air quality, lighting, nature views and overall interior layout can have a significant impact on employee productivity, satisfaction and health and wellbeing.

Fellows Workplace Wellness Trend Report, also found that an overwhelming majority of 87% of workers would like their current employees to offer healthier workspace benefits, with options ranging from wellness rooms, company fitness benefits, sit-stands, healthy lunch options and ergonomic seating.

Ergonomics

A poor desk set up can discourage employees from spending time at their desks and in some cases can lead to absence. To help minimise any health risks and improve productivity, employers need to consider providing ergonomic furniture, such as adjustable seats, screen supports, rests for keyboards, mouse and feet, all of which allow employees to choose the right height for them to sit with proper posture and remain focused for long periods of time.

Type of workspace

Employees’ own workspace – typically a desk – provides individuals a space to work but also needs to feel connected to facilitate communications and collaborate with others in the team.

As a result of more of the workforce reflecting on the condition most suited for delivering their best work. Office space needs to consider a variety of different types of spaces to accommodate the ways in which people now prefer to work.

These spaces also need to offer the right technology, supportive organisational culture and flexibility to be used for different situations such as lunch breaks, informal catch up and accommodate remote workers when they visit the office location. Employees’ own workspace – typically a desk – needs to be multifaceted to not only provide individuals a space to work but also needs to facilitate communications and collaborate with others in the team.

Use of colour

Colour can directly affect your mood so the design and colours selected for a workspace need to not only engage but inspire more creativity during the working day. Selecting lively colours such as yellow and orange can have a real positive effect, however these bright colours will need to be balanced throughout the space with neutrals so as not to overwhelm.

Office design is a valuable business investment. To ensure maximum return on investment, time and careful consideration needs to be given to creating a stunning space that not only reflects the company’s values but supports the team in delivering their best at every opportunity.