The Impact of Design on Employee Motivation and Productivity in Various Workplaces

Design plays a crucial role in shaping the workplace environment, impacting employee motivation, and driving productivity in offices, factories, and beyond. While a nicely designed space can be pleasant and inspiring, an over-the-top design may raise concerns about its associated costs. As a manager and comptroller in a manufacturing setting, I witnessed firsthand the power of a thoughtful workspace design in fostering a positive and productive environment.

Creating a Stress-Free and Productive Atmosphere

Quality workspace design is essential for reducing stress and enhancing productivity. Employers must consider the physical environment of their employees, ensuring a comfortable and calm setting. A clean and well-designed workspace can attract and retain the top talent, who are more likely to produce their best work in such environments. Conversely, rooms with blank grey walls or unclean surfaces fail to inspire and motivate the best employees to perform at their best.

The Importance of Eco-Friendly Efforts

Today, businesses must prioritize environmental sustainability alongside financial success. Most of us are aware of the outdoor pollution that poses health risks, but indoor pollutants such as cleaning products, building materials, carpets, paint, mold, and pet dander also have adverse effects. Companies can significantly reduce their carbon footprint and improve indoor air quality by adopting simple and effective green practices.

Green Office Trends and Practices

Implementing a green office design involves more than just incorporating a few low-maintenance plants. Today's workspaces feature innovative elements like vertical wall gardens, hanging planters, and rooftop forests to enhance health, productivity, and concentration. Studies have shown that green office designs can improve employees' sleep quality by 6%, cognition function scores by 26%, and reduce sickness-related absences by 30%. These are compelling reasons to invest in a more sustainable and greener environment.

Examples of Green Office Trends

Vertical wall gardens with moss and plant walls Hanging planters to save floor space and add a touch of nature Small bonsai pots at each desk with ornamental plants Planting foliage to prevent dust and humidity Large windows to bring in natural light and fresh airflow

Companies can also promote sustainability by reusing, recycling, and reducing the usage of products. By adopting these practices, companies like WeWork are not only improving the workspace environment but also contributing to a healthier planet.

WeWork's Focus on Wellness and Sustainability

WeWork has always been at the forefront of creating spaces that not only help people thrive but also contribute positively to the environment. Their 36 inspiring spaces in India are designed with a special focus on natural light, which can enhance employee productivity. According to a study, 10 percent of employee absences can be attributed to insufficient daylight. Therefore, it is in a company's best interest to invest in better workspaces to boost productivity.

Incorporating nature into the indoor space also benefits employee health and wellness. Additionally, offering access to outdoor spaces can stimulate creative thinking. WeWork strategically incorporates potted plants or greenery in their spaces, not just for aesthetics but as an investment in employee well-being. Through their efforts, WeWork continues to reduce their carbon footprint by sourcing low carbon materials, minimizing waste, increasing recycling and composting rates, and conserving the Earth's freshwater resources.

Conclusion

In conclusion, thoughtful and sustainable design significantly impacts employee motivation and productivity. By creating a stress-free and inspiring workspace, companies can attract and retain top talent while promoting a healthier and more productive workforce. Green office trends and practices, such as those adopted by WeWork, can lead to improved health outcomes, increased productivity, and a more sustainable environment for all.

To learn more about WeWork's sustainable workspaces, visit their website here.