Gaze Commercial Look At Office Design Trends and Employee Happiness

It may be a sign of the times, but it is encouraging to hear that employers are proving to be much more enlightened regarding their employees’ happiness than in the past. Today’s employer is concerned with creating healthy, inspiring and sustainable office spaces in which people can feel good, not only about where they are but what they do.

From mixed and multipurpose workspaces to materials, colour and texture, employers are now thinking holistically about the workplace to encourage flexibility, happiness and productivity among their workers, in turn inspiring creativity and collaboration.

In 2013, Gensler conducted a survey and found that 69% of workers were dissatisfied with noise levels at their primary workspace and 77% preferred that it be quiet when they need to focus. The study indicated that workers in cubicles were subjected to 29% more interruptions and the frequency of distractions has been stated to cause higher rates of exhaustion and errors.

What works to keep employees engaged is a mix of spaces that include open and enclosed spaces, multi-level offices, lounges and soft seating areas and conference rooms and break rooms. With the disappearance of cubicles, the appearance of multipurpose spaces has seen the development of more oval-shaped office desks that allow for 4-6 people to meet, as well as height adjustable tables for standing meetings. Layering spaces enhances flexibility and some spaces can be designated as ‘quiet zones’ or ‘tech-free zones’. Not only does this enable multimedia presentations – it allows for casual collaborative breakout areas.

Materials, paint and texture equally play an important role when designing office spaces, as contrasts create beautiful spaces that aid in keeping people engaged and refreshed, and to enhance the division of quiet and communal spaces, it is recommended to use thicker texties for upholstery, wall panels and partitions, demountable wall systeems with textile fascias and ceiling panels or ‘clouds’.

Several studies have also concluded that colour boosts happiness, productivity and creativity to evoke energy or calm, and there is a range of tones that can be utilised to maximise the vibe of your office space.

Whatever the vibe you are trying to inspire in your workplace do not be afraid to infuse your brand personality like the Gaze office in Auckland – after all studies indicate that there is a clear connection between the design of the office, company culture and the success of the business, so for more information on office fit-outs, office design and commercial interior fit-outs please go to http://gaze.co.nz .