Can office design improve employee wellbeing and productivity?

Good office design can improve employee wellbeing and productivity by creating spaces that support focus, collaboration, comfort and the different ways people work.

As designers that have worked on many big commercial design projects including Wolverine Worldwide and Sweaty Betty's head office, we love driving into he design aspect that make an office great. not only looking like your brand but working with your employees not against them.

So lets take a look into the design aspects that can help promote a enjoyable work environment:

Layout for focus

The layout of an office is one of the most important things to consider. Creating a space where employees with different working styles can work alongside each other without creating distraction is key. People need to be able to have meetings and brainstorm without creating chaos for those who need a quieter environment to focus.

For our client Sweaty Betty we needed areas for focus work alongside open working spaces. So, we created focus working pods and used fabric curtains to be able to divide spaces up while keeping the space soft and on brand.

Prioritise comfort

Natural light can have a big impact on employee wellbeing, helping to support mood and alertness. For Sweaty Betty and Wolverine Milan, this was easier due to the nature of the buildings, with large open windows that we made sure to keep clear and make the most of.

For spaces that lack natural light, the colour of your artificial lighting can make a big difference too. Another great element is greenery, with plants and biophilic elements helping to create a calmer and more welcoming working environment.

Give people a reason to come to the office

Another element that's often overlooked is their workspace and having a breakout space that feels clean and welcoming. Having breakout spaces that feel clean, comfortable and welcoming can make a real difference.

Creating practical spaces where employees can step away from their desks and naturally socialise can help build connections and morale. These spaces can also provide a more welcoming environment for clients and visitors.

Final thoughts

Office design isn't just about how a workplace looks and really thinking about how the people in the space use it could be the key.

Designing around the people who actually use the space can help create an office that supports both wellbeing and productivity.

Planning an office redesign or refurbishment? Get in touch to see how thoughtful design could help your workplace work better for the people using it.