How design can maximise productivity in the workplace

Office managers should consider introducing teals and greens in the workplace environment to increase employee wellbeing, according to new insight from our Head of Design Sarah.

When thinking of the design of your office, it is important to not just think of the aesthetics, as colours can play a huge part in our mood, our wellbeing and even productivity levels.

Our Head of Design, Sarah, has shared her top tips and advice on the best colours and environments to create a productive space for employees.

Build an environment that encourages productivity

Teals and greens are the perfect shades to incorporate into your working environment as they provide a calming and stable influence. Green, in particular, is a great colour for reducing stress, encouraging concentration and feeling welcomed.

Sarah adds, “Use natural finishes on furniture and fixtures to complement these shades, as they will make the room feel well-balanced.“

Create a standout reception area

Although many businesses will want to incorporate their brand colours into the office’s reception area, Sarah recommends utilising blues and greens alongside, as they are both colours that promote a welcoming feeling. Regardless of the colours you decide to focus on in the welcome area, it is important that the design reflects the brand values of the company.

Sarah said, “When going through a reception redesign with a client, our recommendations are always the same regardless of the sector or size of the organisation – keep it light, fresh and airy but with the wow factor.”

Colours to avoid

Sarah advises that dark and angry colours, such as red and dark brown, should always be avoided. Red invokes passion and increases blood flow, so in the short term, it may be beneficial for spurts of productivity, but it isn’t a shade that would be recommended for overall employee wellbeing.

Sarah adds, “If red in the office is non-negotiable, for example, if it is the primary brand colour, choose a vibrant shade such as tomato or carmine, rather than a dull or heavy shade such as crimson – the darker the shade, the more unmotivated the environment.

Think about lighting

Sunlight should be one of the biggest considerations when designing an office. Sarah advises that desks should be placed near windows, as natural light improves our entire wellbeing and impacts happiness. The benefit of a south-facing building is natural light during daylight hours is maximised. However, exposure to too much light can make some employees feel uncomfortable, which has an impact on productivity.

Sarah adds, “Space permitting, separate pods or areas are recommended for solo working, where people can adapt the lighting settings to suit their personal preferences.”

When in doubt, go neutral

Neutral environments and soft shades of grey, beige and taupes are great base colours that create a calm and relaxing environment. Sarah recommends keeping desking spaces neutral and keeping colours to more collaborative spaces, such as meeting rooms or break-out areas, to get the most out of your employees and encourage a productive work environment.

Sarah advised: “To stop sensory overload and avoid distractions, as a general rule, meeting rooms should focus on one or two colours in the right areas, normally the flooring or walls.”

You can find out more about office design and fit-out by contacting our creative design team or by following us on social media for regular updates and advice.