This is one of those crucial conversations that management often overlooks. When you and your team members spend at least 40 hours per week in one space, it’s a shame to not curate the design to maximize results. From a better quality of life to an improvement in work results, countless studies show employees benefit from certain working conditions. Here’s what we’re talking about:
Keep Noise to a Minimum to Keep Coworkers Focused
There are certain measures you can take to eliminate distractions in the office. Although open floor plans are still growing in popularity, it’s not always the answer to improving work conditions. Noise is linked to stress, lower productivity, poor morale and low job satisfaction. Consider a sound masking system, sound-proof rooms or noise-canceling headphones.
Raise the Ceiling Height to Encourage Creative Thought
Creativity and self-expression are valuable in even the most Type-B of work environments. A study by Fast Company shows that ceilings 10-feet or higher increase the sense of freedom of thought.
Maximize Natural Light Exposure for Instant Improvements
Poor lighting (we’re looking at you, fluorescent bulbs!) is a direct link to headaches, eye strain, fatigue and poor mental health. Eight hours a day is a long time to sit in a space that drains the body and mind. The Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine found exposure to natural light and close proximity to a window improves mood, increases productivity and encourages a good night’s sleep.
Think Outside the Open Concept Floor Plan
While it may be trendy, open concept just doesn’t always work. Open floor plans in office spaces can directly result in distraction, frustration and loud working conditions. Combat these negative characteristics with a more creative office design. Give your employees a stipend to customize their own workspace and offer separate social spaces for collaboration.
Update Your Office with the Help of ARC Construction
We can take care of all these improvements and more to increase team productivity. Do you have some exciting ideas for your workspace in 2020? Contact the ARC Construction team today to start the design process.