Latest studies confirm that how an office is designed is key to employees’ health, wellbeing and productivity.
A report from the Green Building Council states that the number of sick days is influenced by poor air quality and lighting in office premises and that the relationship between people and the building in which they are working is vital. The majority of businesses are missing a trick in ignoring the enormous opportunity this relationship presents.
For architects and designers, the idea that buildings influence the health, wellbeing and productivity of their occupants is not new. But this type of thinking is still not influencing most design, financing and leasing decisions.
Concentrating on the office sector, we have compiled evidence that demonstrates the physical work environment has an impact on the health and productivity of the office worker. Of course, the terms health, wellbeing and productivity encompass a whole range of related and complex issues. Health encapsulates physical and mental health, wellbeing hints at broader feelings or perceptions of satisfaction and happiness, and productivity refers more explicitly to business-oriented outputs.
Good indoor air quality, thermal comfort, high quality views, daylight, good acoustics and indeed location and amenities – all play a crucial role in creating a healthy, productive workplace.
To read more visit the Guardian news website.
