WHY YOUR WORK ENVIRONMENT MATTERS

Could you imagine going to work each day and being walled up in a beige cubicle? As office design has evolved, experts are starting to realise just how much impact work environments have on mood, job satisfaction and productivity.

Forward-thinking approaches to workplace design are one of the key drivers behind the success of coworking. To ensure member satisfaction and create dynamic working environments, the founders of these shared office spaces take inspiration from the latest design thinking. And with the Deskmag 2015-16 Global Coworking Survey finding that there are now half a million people using coworking spaces around the world, this model appears to be working.

We have studied the design of coworking spaces around the world and found the top seven elements that contribute to a positive work environment.

1. OPEN-PLAN DESIGN

Open-plan design lets you get into the mindset you need to be productive. Seeing others at work will motivate you to put your head down and get stuck into the to-do list. This style of design is also more conducive to collaboration, which is becoming an increasingly important consideration for the modern workforce.

2. PLANTS 

Plants are a simple addition to any space and they can have a drastic impact on mood and performance. Figures from 202020 Vision show that people who work in a space with trees or plants are 17% more productive. Plants also filter the air, which makes for healthier work settings.

3. COMMUNAL SPACES

With access to secondary spaces away from the desk, you can engage in more creative thinking. Areas such as communal lunch tables and breakout spaces can be used for informal meetings, to take a break or to brainstorm ideas. These spaces are beneficial for problem solving and also for boosting your mood through social interaction.

4. MEETING ROOMS

If you regularly meet clients, not having access to a meeting room can be a significant burden. Access to a well-equipped meeting room saves you from travelling to meetings and alleviates the anxiety of appearing unprofessional by meeting in a cafe.

5. A CLEAN WORK STATION

Your computer has enough distractions to fuel any pains of procrastination. To stay focused, maintain a clean desk. By having less clutter around you, you’ll be able to better concentrate on the task at hand.

6. NATURAL LIGHT

There are a number of reasons why natural light is important in working environments. It helps us feel more connected to the outside world and provides a better sense of time. Studies have also found that exposure to natural light is also linked with better sleep at night, as your circadian rhythm is not disrupted by artificial lighting.

7. A NATURAL VIEW

As well as being able to see plants, it’s important that you remain connected with the outdoors too. Being able to catch a glimpse of a garden, courtyard or the ocean helps you to feel as though you are part of the world around you.

We have incorporated all of these elements into life at Inbox, so you can enjoy a fulfilling and productive professional life. To experience the difference that your working environment has on your frame of mind, drop by for a free trial.