Seven design tips for creating the perfect workplace environment

Your workplace environment can greatly affect productivity, morale, and ultimately influence the success or failure of your business.

This is why the interior design and layout of your workplace is critically important. Studies have shown that with the right décor and design, you can significantly increase your productivity. 

Even small changes such as adjusting the lighting can have a substantial effect on how your team works.

Continue reading to learn top design tips will help you create the perfect workplace environment.

1.    Focus on your layout

When you design first design the layout of your office, you may come across potential issues that could become problems in the future.

It is best to tackle these problems early and nip them in the bud while creating your workplace layout.

In these early stages, the most important thing to keep in mind is your vision. This should incorporate your company's work culture and the operational needs of your business model.

This way, you will form a clearer idea of what you want, and you can go forward with your design.

For example, if you value a relaxed and open environment, have an open and airy layout instead of constricting cubicles.

2.    Leave space

You cannot put 100 employees in a small space and expect them to work at their best. Leaving enough room for movement is important because everyone needs room to breathe.

It’s important for people to be able to walk around the workplace for short breaks. If a brief walk around the space will instantly recharge them and keep them productive. 

Allowing movement is very important in the workplace. Keep essentials like copy machines and printers away from work areas. This way, employees are forced to talk a small stroll around the office and stay active.

3.    Use the right colours 

Colours play a crucial role in setting your mind set. Some colours instantly inspire happiness, while others make you feel depressed. If you want to ensure an optimal work environment, you will also need to focus on the colour scheme. 

You also pick colours that match your company culture or go for something quirky. Funky colours are always great to keep the workplace energetic and lively.

On the other hand, blues, reds, and oranges are the most productive shades and will bring energy to the space.

They will motivate your staff and set the tone for hard work! Experts tell us to stay away from white and black as they are uninspiring and can damage productivity.

4.    Lighting is important 

Along with the colours you choose, you need to consider the lighting in your workplace. The way your workplace is lit determines how energetic your employees will be.

You may be forced to use artificial lighting, but natural light is undoubtedly the best. Studies show that exposure to natural light makes people happier and more productive.

If your working hours are during the day, make the most natural lighting with smart windows and large panels that let sunlight in. 

5.    Leave room for personalisation 

Your staff wants their place of work needs to have small personal touches to make them feel at home.

Working in a comfortable environment is the best way to enhance productivity. When you feel at home, your mind is more focused, and you are more alert and present. 

Plants and unique décor make the space attractive and keep your staff happy. Make sure you leave enough room for others to personalise their workspaces.

Encourage your employees to decorate their desks, and provide space for them to do so such as blank pin up boards that they can embellish as they wish.

6.    Create different zones 

Creating zones in your workplace helps staff to organise their workflow.

Having designated areas for meetings and relaxation allow employees to unwind and be more productive. Depending on how much space your office has available, you can set up separate areas for work and leisure. 

If you have more room to spare, try incorporating a game room and/or a relaxation zone. This will allow your staff to take small breaks from work and be more focused overall.

7.    Install pin up boards 

You might think pin-up boards belong in high school. However, they are a fun and useful addition to any office. Install a pin-up board to make fun announcements and keep your team engaged in activities. 

Not only is this an effective way to share information, but pin up boards encourage your staff to socialise as they gather around to read the notices.

You can do the same with not work-related pin up or white boards. These can be an opportunity for your staff to write whatever they want!

Final thoughts

There are many ways to encourage the perfect working environment. From the lighting to amenities, you can always change things up and make them better.

For example, consulting with hygiene experts like phs will let you ensure that your workplace is not only aesthetically pleasing, but that you protect the health and safety of your staff too.

Regularly making changes in the workplace can also help regulate the working environment and avoid motivation killers like monotony.