The human-centric workplace: Designing for employee wellbeing

Our understanding of how environmental factors affect human psychology has advanced significantly. Research consistently demonstrates that the sensory experience of a workspace encompassing textures, lighting, colour, scent, and acoustics, directly influences cognitive function, emotional regulation, and social behaviour.

When employees enter a workspace dominated by cold, hard surfaces and sterile lighting, their stress hormones can increase measurably within minutes. In contrast, environments incorporating natural textures, warm lighting, and thoughtfully selected materials promote the release of mood-regulating neurotransmitters that enhance wellbeing and performance.

This biological response to environmental stimuli isn't conscious, it operates at a fundamental neurological level. The human-centric workplaces are designed to support how we think, feel, and perform.

Material selection in the human-centric workplace extends far beyond durability and maintenance considerations. Each material choice represents an opportunity to enhance emotional connection and support employee wellbeing while advancing sustainability objectives.

Sustainable materials

The human-centric workplace increasingly considers the environmental impact of material choices, recognising that sustainable office design concerns affect employee morale and organisational reputation. Materials with lower carbon footprints often align with biophilic office design principles, creating synergies between environmental and human wellbeing objectives.

• Locally sourced materials reduce transportation emissions while often providing unique character that reflects regional identity.
• Recycled and upcycled materials tell compelling sustainability stories while offering distinctive textures and visual interest that mass-produced alternatives cannot match.

Dynamic workplace environments

The human-centric workplace acknowledges that optimal environments vary by individual, task, and time of day. Rather than imposing a single atmospheric approach, successful designs create zones with distinct characteristics that employees can choose based on their current needs.

This might include energising spaces with brighter office lighting and dynamic textures for collaborative work, alongside quieter zones with softer materials and warmer lighting for focused tasks or decompression. The key lies in providing choice and variety rather than mandating a single environmental approach.

Creating collision points

Strategic placement of collaborative zones, refreshment areas, and informal seating creates natural opportunities for cross-departmental interaction without forcing unwanted social contact. These "collision points" should feel organic and comfortable rather than artificially imposed.

Materials and textures in these social zones can signal their intended use:

• Softer seating and warmer materials encourage conversation
• Harder surfaces and task-oriented lighting communicate focused collaboration opportunities