We probably wouldn’t like to admit it, but the office is fast
becoming a home from home for a great many people. The economic downturn has
forced many of us to work harder and for more hours than ever before. As a
result it is not uncommon to find yourself spending more time in the office
than anywhere else. The increased workload that many of us face is an
unavoidable necessity but there is no denying that this intensive mode can lead
to increased levels of stress and stifled creativity.
Companies like Google and Facebook understand the risks that come
with an increased workload and, in order to combat this, have made radical
design changes to their offices in order to improve the well-being of their
employees. The workplace in these companies is made to resemble a homely,
activity-filled environment and is designed to encourage employees to enjoy the
time they spend there. Now most companies, especially start-ups, do not have
the funds to follow in Google’s footsteps and install a cinema room, or a
massage room, or serve three meals a day cooked by an in-house chef. However,
you can still redesign your office in a non-extravagant yet practical fashion.
Eliminating stress is one thing, but the interior design of
your office should also aim to inspire your staff and promote creativity.
The best thing you can do is to talk to your staff about what
additions will enrich their working experience. By interviewing each person
individually you can determine which ideas come up the most and compose an
objective idea of what changes need to be made. However, there are a number of
things you can do which will guarantee a drop in stress levels and an increase
in creativity.
First of all, give people the freedom to work how they like and
where they like. Perhaps your employees don’t always feel comfortable working
on a computer at a desk. You can provide pens and paper for the
traditionalists, or even let people work on their phones or their tablets so
long as the work keeps getting done. Another good idea is to have a whiteboard
on which your employees can collaborate and share ideas. Also, be sure to leave
notepads lying about everywhere as you never know when someone will have a
sudden breakthrough.
A recent study suggests that messy office environments encourage
risk-taking and thinking outside the box, while orderly offices promote
convention and playing it safe. When designing your office make sure to keep
everything versatile – that way your employees can move things about and tailor
their environment to suit their needs. By creating different zones within the
office you will allow your workers to choose whether they wish to work in
sociable surroundings or within a more pensive atmosphere.
An important factor that is often overlooked is the value of
natural lighting and good ventilation. By installing large windows you can let
in a lot of natural light while also maintaining good air flow. Finally, let
your employees bring in personal items such as photos, plants and even pets.
These will add life to the office as well as talking points that will help
everyone get to know one another a bit better.
