Many of us are familiar with “every cloud has a silver lining” and while it may be hard to identify a beneficial outcome amidst a global pandemic, we’re starting to see a glimmer of hope and it starts with workplace wellness.
Workplace wellness is prevalent now more than ever. The virus has highlighted emotional and cognitive health are just as important as physical health. As businesses prepare to transition staff back into the office, the importance of creating a workplace which supports holistic wellness is paramount. While this may sound like a costly revamp of operations and processes in theory, the flexible office industry could be the solution.
Design Is The Foundation & People Are The Centre
With the physical design having direct influence on how individuals feel in a space, it’s important for organisations to consider an environment that accommodates the different personalities, work styles and needs of its employees.
Employers should take into consideration that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to an office layout and the environment should have a mix of functional clusters and open, collaborative workspaces with quiet corners, private rooms and designated areas of respite.
Designing a workspace with an understanding of employee’s needs will support individuals by allowing flexibility and different work styles to flourish as well as significantly boost mental and emotional wellbeing.
Nature To Nurture
Studies have shown that individuals who work in spaces with natural features reported 15% higher levels of overall wellbeing. Based on a theory otherwise known as biophilia, it’s suggested humans possess an innate tendency to seek connections with nature.
In order to positively impact the physical, cognitive and emotional wellbeing of employees, many businesses are bringing the biophilic concept to life through greenery, natural light, outdoor breakout spaces as well as selecting finishes that replicate things in nature.
Flexible Office Is The Solution
An understanding of human nature and an organisation’s people are paramount to designing a workplace that supports holistic wellbeing however, it can be quite a costly investment for a company to make.
The pandemic has shifted outdated beliefs of office space and as the workforce becomes increasingly fluid, employers need to adapt.
The beauty of a flexible office is all in the name. It’s flexible.
With endless options of standing desks, outdoor spaces, private rooms and collaborative seating, flexible office and coworking spaces cater to any and every work style. Many employers are turning to the flexible office model as a means to provide their people with the power of choice and invest in their wellbeing so they can focus on running their business.
