The look, feel, and functionality of a workspace should allow your team to perform in the most efficient and effective way. This includes creating the right environment to satisfy basic human sensory needs.
People spend approximately 90% of their time in enclosed spaces – in homes, offices, or other building environments, and the light which your team are exposed can have an impact on how they think and feel. Studies show strong links between better views, brighter light, and better performance in office environments. Integrating daylight and electric light to create lighting strategies focused on human health, along with traditional requirements for visual acuity and comfort, can lead to healthier and more productive environments. Where possible natural light is a great source of light, however screen glare from the sun should also be considered. Good quality LED lighting and energy efficient lighting will help to reduce costs, create a better working environment and be more eco-friendly.
Just as the quality of light within a workspace can affect mood and performance, the air quality and thermal comfort which people are exposed to has a similar affect. Using effective HVAC systems can help to prevent meeting rooms and offices becoming either too hot and stuffy, or too cold, enabling people using those spaces to maintain concentration and feel engaged in their work. Improved ventilation also helps to reduce the spread of coughs and colds which can be extremely costly with members of the teams on sick leave. Similarly, from a cost-saving point of view, a better ventilation system helps to reduce energy costs and is more sustainable.
Being able to focus and not be distracted by noise is key to working efficiently. Reducing noise pollution and providing more privacy are ways that good workplace design can improve the overall office experience. Acoustic panelling can be an effective way to break up areas within the office, soaking up some of the background noise and providing an interesting visual feature. Similarly stud partitions within meeting rooms help with the sound transfer. Certain spaces within the office can be designated for quieter working and acoustically proofed booths provide more ad-hoc private workstations.
Our team is here to help so please get in touch on 0117 231 0077 to discuss how to create a working environment which is focused around the needs of your people.