Beyond aesthetics: How office design impacts productivity & satisfaction

1. Natural Light: The right balance of natural and artificial lighting is crucial for employee productivity. Natural light has been shown to improve mood and energy levels, while well-designed artificial lighting can reduce eye strain and headaches. Research by Cornell University reinforces the connection of natural light and employee wellbeing, with a research study finding natural light in an office significantly improves health and wellness among workers.
2. Acoustics: In open-plan offices, managing noise levels is essential for maintaining focus. Incorporating sound-absorbing materials, creating quiet zones, and using white noise systems can help create a more productive acoustic environment.
3. Layout and space planning: The way an office is laid out can significantly impact collaboration and workflow. A well-designed space plan should facilitate easy movement and communication while also providing spaces for focused work.
4. Colour psychology: The colours used in an office can influence mood and productivity. For example, blue is often associated with calmness and focus, while yellow can stimulate creativity.

Biophilic design, which incorporates natural elements into the built environment, has been shown to have a significant positive impact on employee wellbeing and productivity.

Incorporating biophilic elements can be as simple as adding plants to the office or as complex as creating living walls or indoor gardens.

At OP, we work with clients to find creative ways to bring nature into the workplace, enhancing both the office aesthetic appeal and the functional benefits of the space.

The trend towards flexible and hybrid work models requires office spaces to be more adaptable than ever. At OP, we design offices with flexibility in mind, creating spaces that can easily transition between different uses and accommodate changing work patterns.

This might include modular office furniture systems, easily reconfigurable meeting spaces, and technology that supports both in-person and remote collaboration. By creating adaptable spaces, companies can ensure their office remains functional and productive, regardless of how work patterns evolve in the future.