For decades, interior designers and architects have been attempting to create the perfect office that fosters a productive environment. Offices spaces have evolved greatly over a relatively short period of time, from resembling factory assembly lines in the early twentieth century, tomodern, open spaces that foster creativity.
There have been numerous studies over the past few years with the intention of finding out the elements needed to create the perfect office. Research conducted by the Harvard Business Reviewconcluded that open plan offices were conducive to a productive work environment for some, but made others feel self-conscious and inhibited discussion amongst colleagues. Therefore, the ideal working environment needs to have a spatial balance of open areas for debate and private spaces for individual work.
So,exactly what form of office interior design cultivates productivity, concentration and efficiency?
Furniture
Furnishings are an important element. Ergonomic, functional and clear work spaces are essential to induce high levels of productivity. A bad back caused by a poorly designed chair, or a stiff neck as a result is staring at a badly adjusted monitor, can be detrimental to office productivity.A comfortable work force is a productive work force.
Noise
High noise levels can be distracting. A noisy office can increase stress levels and lower the ability to concentrate, especially in open plan spaces. As well as carefully positioning desks and placing screens to separate areas, using specialised materials on floors and ceilings can help to absorb sound and inhibit noise pollution.
Environment
Another incredibly important factor is lighting. Artificial light can cause headaches and eye strain, so natural light ispreferential in an office.Optimum air temperature is crucial, too. An office that is hot and stuffy, or a freezing cold atmosphere, is not a conducive working environment.
Tones and colour palettes should be carefully considered, also. The Colour Affects System designed by Angela Wright relates colours to psychology, connecting the influence of different hues and saturations to human emotion. Her theory outlines that yellow is the key to a creative environment, blue is stimulating and green is calming.
So many of us work in office spaces, but we rarely think about the detrimental or positive effects our surroundings can have on our productivity. But the perfect chair, some natural light, and a soothing colour palette can make a huge difference.
If your company does not have the time or resources to redesign its offices, companies such as Landmark offerreadymade and serviced office spaces, offering luxurious and contemporary interiors that will positively impact on workplace productivity.
