How Architecture and Design Can Maximise Productivity in Office Spaces? (Part 1)
16 December 2021Many remain unaware that office design can directly contribute to the behaviour of employees and executives. It is not entirely dependent on the office location and amenities. It is also essential to create a productive and comfortable interior atmosphere. It will make collaboration among employees, supervisors, and managers possible. Here is how architecture and design can maximise productivity in office spaces.
Open and Welcoming Hallways and Entrance Paths
Imagine yourself entering your office space for the first time. Whether you are aware or not, hallways and entrance paths are planned to feel open and welcoming. This first step is intended for employees to work freely and be inspired to create and facilitate new ideas. An accommodating entrance path or hallway with no obstruction along the way is a place conducive for innovation and creativity. Such is expected in every industry.
Lighting Source
It is also important to consider lighting for your workspaces. Many studies have shown that the abundance of ambient and natural daylight is beneficial for office workers. Natural light is said and proven to improve one’s mood, health, and productivity. To facilitate maximum daylight consider the shape and structure of the building. Narrow floor plates elongate the shape of the building. It allows more light to enter the workspace. Aside from that, L and U-shaped buildings also let in more light since there is more exterior wall space.
Lighting Cycles
Although the lighting source matters, the cycle they are programmed into is also significant. A regular lighting cycle facilitates routine. A consistent routine maintains a healthy circadian rhythm. With the technology available nowadays, you can easily program your lighting to dim or change colours depending on the needs of the employees at any given time. You could also program the window shutters or blinds to open and shut, so you can control the amount of natural light that enters your workplace.
Acoustics
Various tasks are delegated to each employee. Different tasks require different needs. A telemarketer would need a space where he can talk clearly without external noises while a legal assistant that deals with important paperwork would need a space where he could concentrate. This is where acoustics come into the picture. Each employee would need a space to solely focus on work without the burden of overhearing matters unrelated to them. Social areas are a different story. Your pantry or dining area must be able to absorb noise. This way, the employees taking a break won’t be concerned about bothering those currently working.
Ergonomics
The placement of cubicles and chairs also plays an essential role in workplace productivity. Stiff chairs often cause bad backs that are harmful to an employee in the long run. Imagine sitting for eight hours in a chair where you don’t feel comfortable. Or being in a dull cubicle where you can’t think straight. All of these are likely to cause a physical toll on the employees. Most of them would lead to chronic pain, disability and stress.
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