Why work?

It’s the question that arouses in everyone’s mind as we hit snooze on the alarm clock. Why do we work? What a silly question. We work because we have to make a living. Sure, but is that it? Of course not. Work is where you unleash your passion and creatively in something to benefit others. This is exactly what some companies have their work-space design based on.

Workspace Culture then and now

Companies do not only represent the visible status of economic activity. However, they reflect the social, technological, cultural and financial status of the community they are in.

In the modern era, organizations are facing several challenges due to the dynamic nature of the environment. For instance, one of the modern challenges for a company is to promote creativity among its employees. In other words, to let the employees not only “work” but passionately work!

Some companies really believed in this so their offices have become more personalized and employee-centric. Their work-space design is done by giving people a more comfortable and creative place to spend their working hours in.

In this article we will preview some of the new approaches to office design and customization that are breathing new lively concepts into the workplace.

1. Cooperative work environment

According to Forbes, A Stanford study done a few years ago found that even the mere perception of working collaboratively on a task can supercharge the workers’ performance. Participants in this research who worked collaboratively concentrated on the given task 64% longer than those who work individually. In addition to reporting higher engagement levels, lower fatigue levels and a higher success rate!

Many companies seem to believe in this research as we can see this perfectly implemented in their office designs. Inside the offices, we can find provided comfy, fun and even inviting collaborative work areas. These spaces range from large space meeting areas for group meetings to intimate one to one meetings. All of these specifically designed to boost cooperation among employees.

“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” – Helen Keller

2. Recreational work atmosphere

When the work environment is fun, it allows the brain to think differently and come up with out-of-the-box ideas. Creating recreational spaces enables employees to stay motivated and refreshed throughout the day which leads to more confidence. With confidence comes success; meaning that all the employees will feel empowered. This would be reflected in taking actions and contributing to the task at hand with 100% dedication and enthusiasm.

The successful work-space design provides many recreational spaces to allow workers to de-stress and boost creativity among the employees. The recreational spaces that they offer to the employees give them a chance to exercise, play games and decompress. Eventually, this creates a more passionate and productive work environment.

“Work is much more fun than fun” Noel Coward.

3. Biophilic office design

Biophilic office design refers to bringing the outdoors indoors, or more accurately into the workplace. It’s a trend of designing the work place with more greenery. A UK based study entitled ‘The Relative Benefits of Green versus Lean office Space’ found that workers with an exposed level of contact with nature were 15% more productive, compared to those with minimal contact.

Some office designs implement this in many forms. Greens walls, indoor plants and some of these also plant trees inside workspace to provide healthier and fresher air and also to increase productivity.

“Gardening adds years to your life and life to your years” Unknown

4. Office with home essence

Comfort is key when designing an office space. With most people spending 40+ hours at their office every week, it is important for their overall well-being to feel comfortable. According to ieeexplore.ieee.org a study found that the productivity of workers increases 14% when working in a more comfortable workplace.

The feeling of comfort is applied in the office design in many shapes and forms. Starting with open office plans that allow flexibility of freely moving office desks and chairs. Yet, also providing an individualistic space for workers to focus on this open plan. Reaching to allowing home-based activities as cooking to take place at work.

“Cure sometimes, treat often, comfort always” Hippocrates

The power of design

Interior design tends to have an effect on how people behave. An innovative work-space design can increase employee engagement, productivity, and overall company performance.

So, in order to increase efficiency, effectiveness, productivity and job commitment of employees, the business must satisfy the needs of its employees by providing good working conditions as mentioned above.

If interested in the interior design world, check “Egyptian Interior Design Trends 2019” 

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