Workplace Wellbeing - Designing for Wellbeing in the Workplace

What is Workplace Wellbeing?

Wellbeing in the workplace can significantly impact an employee’s physical, mental, and emotional health. A well-designed office environment can improve employee wellbeing by providing access to natural light, ergonomic furniture, and creating spaces that support both focused and collaborative work. Thoughtful office design can play a crucial role in shaping an employee’s overall well-being, from providing access to natural light and ergonomic furniture to creating flexible spaces that encourage movement and social interaction.

Workplace wellbeing has become a vital part of core business strategies, especially as companies seek to enhance productivity and employee satisfaction through effective office design. The focus has shifted from simply providing a place to work to creating an environment that nurtures health, comfort, and efficiency.

Once seen as a passing trend, workplace wellbeing has gained significant importance, especially with the rise of hybrid working post-COVID. As employees split their time between home and office, creating a well-balanced, healthy workspace has become crucial for maintaining morale and productivity.

The Value of Wellbeing

Wellbeing in the office has monetary both monetary and human value. Research by Mind found that 70% of employees have experienced poor mental health in their lives; but with every £1 invested in workplace mental health, there is a £5.30 return on investment. This underscores the critical importance of prioritising mental health in office environments.

Despite the clear benefits of investing in mental health, challenges persist. A recent Gallup report revealed that 76% of employees have experienced symptoms of burnout, with stress-related absences increasing by 37%, according to the CIPD. However, numerous studies show that focusing on workplace wellbeing improves productivity, morale, and staff retention while reducing sick days.

The CIPD identifies five key domains contributing to employee wellbeing: health, good working environments, values and principles, collective/social aspects, and personal growth. Each of these can be thoughtfully integrated into office design and build (D&B) processes and furniture selection.

1. Health (Physical and Mental Well-being)

Health in the workplace encompasses both physical safety and mental wellbeing. Office design should incorporate ergonomic solutions such as adjustable desks and chairs with proper lumbar support. Sit-stand desks not only reduce physical discomfort but also encourage movement throughout the day. Providing quiet areas or wellness rooms can aid in stress management and mental health, offering employees private spaces to decompress.

2. Good Working Environments

Good working environments are characterised by ergonomically designed spaces that foster an open and inclusive culture. The layout of an office and the selection of furniture should contribute to employee comfort and productivity. Examples include breakout areas with comfortable seating that encourage collaboration and workstations that cater to different working styles – such as shared desks for those who thrive on interaction and private pods for focused, individual work. By incorporating elements like natural lighting, biophilic design (e.g., adding plants), and high-quality air systems, companies can create spaces that actively support employee well-being.

3. Values and Principles

The values of an organisation are reflected in its commitment to health and well-being. Office design can play a crucial role in demonstrating an organisation’s values, such as inclusion and diversity. For example, designing spaces that are accessible for people with disabilities shows a clear dedication to inclusivity. Furniture selection, such as desks that accommodate wheelchair users or collaboration tables with adjustable heights, helps to promote a welcoming and adaptable workplace. The inclusion of gender-neutral restrooms and prayer rooms can also reflect an organisation’s principles in promoting diversity and respect.

4. Collective and Social Well-being

Spaces that support social interaction and collective well-being are key to promoting an open and emotionally supportive culture. This translates to the design of shared spaces like open lounges, cafeteria areas, and brainstorming hubs that make it easy for people to connect. Furniture can also encourage these interactions – modular sofas or flexible seating arrangements allow groups to come together for informal meetings or simply to socialise. A well-designed office encourages spontaneous interaction, which can lead to more innovation, team learning, and emotional support among colleagues.

5. Good Life and Personal Growth

Personal growth is an integral part of well-being, and a well-designed office can support this by providing learning and development opportunities. This might involve creating spaces that double as training areas – like multipurpose rooms equipped with digital whiteboards and flexible furniture that can be adapted for workshops or learning sessions. Having quiet, private areas is also beneficial for personal study or focused work, allowing employees to engage in activities that contribute to their personal development.

Each component plays a crucial role in creating a positive work environment. Employers who focus on these areas are more likely to see improvements in both employee health and overall business performance. Moreover, the CIPD highlights that poor mental health remains a significant challenge, with presenteeism (working while unwell) and leaveism (using time off to work) becoming increasingly common issues. Designing offices with well-being in mind, from supportive furniture to thoughtfully created social spaces, can help mitigate these challenges, ensuring that employees feel supported both mentally and physically.

Designing a Wellbeing-First Workplace

Designing for wellbeing in the workplace is not just an aesthetic afterthought, it involves careful plan. It’s about creating an environment that supports physical, mental, and emotional health, ultimately leading to improved productivity and employee satisfaction. The following sections explore various strategies that can enhance wellbeing through thoughtful office design.

1. Choice is Key

The traditional model of spending eight hours at a designated desk is becoming obsolete. Modern office design prioritises various work settings, allowing employees to choose where and how they want to work. These spaces include breakout areas for informal catch-ups, private areas for focused work, and phone booths for confidential calls.
According to a study by Gensler, providing multiple work settings empowers employees, promoting a sense of autonomy that contributes to mental health and productivity.

While desks are still essential, they are no longer the only workspace option. This flexibility not only enhances mental wellbeing by offering autonomy but also encourages movement and reduces sedentary behaviour—a key component of workplace wellbeing.

2. Embrace Sit-Stand Workstations and Standing Meetings

Increased movement is crucial for wellbeing. Many workplaces now include sit-stand desks, allowing employees to switch between sitting and standing throughout the day. A few years ago, these solutions were costly, but now they are accessible for all budgets.

Research by the National Institutes of Health (NIH)  indicates that sit-stand workstations encourage movement throughout the day, which has been shown to reduce the risk of health problems and improve employee wellbeing.

Standing meetings are also gaining popularity as a healthier and more efficient form of collaboration. Office designers often include tall working benches to facilitate these meetings.

Standing for just 30 minutes daily can significantly improve physical and mental health by reducing blood pressure, cholesterol, and stress levels. We explore this further in our article The Rise of the Sit-Stand Desk.

3. Let There Be Light

Lighting plays a critical role in workplace wellbeing. Natural light is ideal, but a well-thought-out lighting strategy is also important for different types of activities. For example, workstations require about 300 lux, while breakout areas can be lower, at 150-200 lux. Thoughtful lighting design can improve mood, productivity, and overall wellbeing.

4. Incorporate Colour Thoughtfully

Colour has a powerful impact on mood. Blues and greens, for instance, can create a sense of calm, while bright colours like red and yellow can inject energy. Modern office design often embraces a bold palette, breaking from the soft tones of the past. Research shows that incorporating the right colours into the office design can significantly influence employee mood and performance.

Colour can be introduced through furniture, graphics, or even carpets. Work with your design team to create a colour palette that suits your brand and space—don’t be afraid to be bold!

5. Bring Nature into the Workplace

We are inherently drawn to nature, and Biophilic Design brings the outdoors into the office. Incorporating natural elements like plant life, natural materials, and greenery can significantly enhance wellbeing by improving mood, concentration, and productivity.

The Human Spaces report found that bringing nature into the workplace is an effective way to boost mental health and productivity.

Consider introducing features such as living walls, views of the outdoors, or natural finishes like wood. Our team has also written a detailed article on Biophilic Office Design, which delves deeper into these ideas.

6. Encourage Physical Activity

More companies are now including bike storage, changing rooms, and shower facilities to support active lifestyles. Providing amenities that make commuting by bike or lunchtime exercise easier can contribute to staff wellbeing.

According to the World Health Organisation, encouraging physical activity in the workplace, such as providing bike storage or fitness facilities, can have a significant positive impact on employee wellbeing.

Additionally, adding playful elements like table tennis or yoga sessions can help employees unwind and re-energise, ensuring they stay fresh and motivated throughout the day.

7. Flexible Working Hours and Remote Options

Providing flexible work hours and remote work options enhances work-life balance, reduces stress, and improves employee satisfaction. Hybrid workspaces and appropriate technology can help facilitate this flexibility, giving employees more control over their schedules and wellbeing.

A survey by FlexJobs found that providing flexibility in work hours and location allows employees to better balance their work and personal lives, reducing stress and improving overall wellbeing.

8. Promote Mental Health Awareness and Support

Mental health resources such as Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), counselling services, and stress management workshops are crucial for promoting workplace wellbeing. Creating an environment where mental health is openly discussed can lead to better outcomes for employees and the organisation as a whole.

9. Embrace Art in the Workplace

Art is no longer just a luxury for large corporations—it’s a powerful tool for increasing creativity and employee satisfaction. Incorporating art into the workplace can range from traditional framed pieces to murals and graffiti, and options now exist for all budgets.

Research by the Business Committee for the Arts found that art can also enhance creativity and foster a sense of belonging, making it a valuable addition to office design. It is also suggested that it can lead to productivity improvements of up to 32%.

Studies show that artwork contributes to a positive work environment, leading to happier, more engaged employees. Art has become an essential part of office design that supports creativity and wellbeing.

10. Nutrition and Healthy Eating Initiatives

The role of nutrition in workplace wellbeing is often overlooked. Providing healthy snacks, organising wellness talks on nutrition, or partnering with local vendors to offer discounts for nutritious meals can have a positive impact on employees’ energy levels and overall health.

According to a study by the British Journal of Health Psychology, providing access to nutritious snacks and promoting healthy eating can directly contribute to workplace wellbeing.

11. Social Connectivity and Team Bonding

Encouraging team-building activities, social events, and informal spaces for interaction can foster a sense of community within the workplace. Social wellbeing is an important aspect of overall wellbeing, helping employees feel more connected and supported.

12. Ergonomic Design Elements

Ergonomic office furniture, such as adjustable chairs, desks, and monitor arms, helps prevent physical strain and improves comfort. An ergonomic workspace reduces the risk of musculoskeletal issues and supports long-term employee health.

I Want to Improve Workplace Wellbeing – Where Do I Start?

At K2 Space, we believe that a well-designed office is the cornerstone of employee wellbeing and productivity. Our expert team integrates the latest workplace wellbeing strategies into every project, ensuring that your office environment supports the physical, mental, and emotional health of your team.

From incorporating natural light and biophilic elements to selecting ergonomic furniture and creating versatile workspaces, we tailor our designs to meet the unique needs of your organisation. Our comprehensive approach includes designing breakout areas for relaxation, private zones for focused work, and collaborative spaces that foster teamwork and creativity. Additionally, we prioritise sustainability and flexibility, allowing your workspace to adapt to evolving work-styles and promote a healthy, balanced work-life environment.

Get in touch with us and let’s chat about transforming your office into a vibrant, supportive environment where employees thrive.