The Impact of Workplace Design on Productivity

Gensler conducted a survey in 2005 on how poorly designed offices erode productivity and estimated that poorly designed office spaces could be costing UK businesses up to £135 billion a year. Individuals in this survey reported they would be 19% more productive in a better working environment. Good office design, accessibility and furniture all work together to ensure workplace productivity is high. When these elements are discordant, or aren’t thought through, they can negatively affect productivity.

4 in 5 of the professionals in the survey felt their job satisfaction was significantly attributed to the quality of their working environment. Unfortunately, the majority felt their office had not been designed to support their job function, with poor furniture choices, a lack of brand cohesion, and a lack of foresight for the future of working. Leaving workspaces feeling old and tired.

Productivity is directly related to any employee’s satisfaction, as this positive mindset about the purpose of their work, their work ethic, and their sense of self-worth in the job produces better results. In the Gensler survey, 19% said they would be embarrassed to show their work environment to a customer, and 38% believed it was difficult to be creative in their office.

What did participants value the highest in good office design? Personal space, daylight, and climate control were the most important.

Dell conducted a 2019 study that found 73% of UK office workers would consider leaving their place of work if the environment didn’t inspire them to fulfil their role. There has been a change to this statistic in the last few years, with 42% of UK office workers saying their office doesn’t make them feel valued.

Having looked through the stats, here are some ways to improve your workspace to improve productivity.

Natural Elements in Workplace Design

Plants, moss walls, and biophilic designs don’t have to be the centre pieces of the office. Workplace furniture can easily be used as tools for wellness and productivity in the office.

In a study called ‘The Relative Benefits of Green Versus Lean Office Space: Three Field Experiments’ the productivity levels of two groups of office workers were observed. Each was exposed to different levels of contact with nature. The group that worked in spaces with natural greenery presented a 15% rise in productivity in just three months compared to those that were not exposed to greenery.

The following natural design elements were found to positively impact productivity.

• External views of nature, seen from inside the office.

• Accents of blue, green, and yellow.

• Plants, green space, water elements and abundant light.

The research into biophilia in office spaces also found some interesting variations across cultures.

In the UK, Netherlands, and the Philippines, productivity was linked with the presence of indoor plants, with Canada similarly responding to indoor greenery.

The Human Spaces Biophilic Report found that in the US, productivity was impaired by a lack of views of nature. Although the UK and the US could be considered among the most progressive in biophilic design, the findings are that they also reported the lowest levels of natural light, the most desired design element of any workplace.

A minimalist approach to office design is the way forward, with clutter-free spaces to maintain organisational responsiveness and adaptability. It helps with keeping people on task, minimising any visual clutter that may cause distractions. Bradley & Hood, 2003 proposed four ‘golden rules’ for layout design regarding this principle:

“i) Systematically and frequently purge 'stuff' to enable mobility

ii) Design for 'busyness' in order to keep a 'buzz'.

iii) Reduce bespoke fixed fit-out components and adopt re-locatable components

iv) Systematically evaluate the utilisation of space and technology alongside shifting work practices”

One study (Ilozor & Oluwoye, 1999) looked at 102 open-plan offices in Sydney and developed a model connecting open-plan measures, management control, and the effectiveness of facilities space management. The findings showed that open-plan workspaces which support informal meetings resulted in increased staff productivity. With more innovative workplace settings which foster staff interaction and engagement lead to higher levels of productivity.

Office layouts can walk the line between providing collaborative space and private space free from distraction. Research from Brill et al (2001, p 26) found the following results for how different layouts affected concentration.

It looks like open-plan offices result in fewer distractions than enclosed, private spaces. However, things seem to have changed over time. More recent research by Savills found that while 80% of respondents in the UK reported working in open-plan offices (the highest in Europe), 37% of people still reported that the design of their workspace was detrimental to their productivity.

A meta-analysis, Psychological and Work Outcomes in Open-Plan and Cellular Office Designs, found that there were negative outcomes associated with working in open-plan offices and names the main factors as:

• Noise

• Distractions

• Lack of privacy

• Lighting and glare

• Lack of temperature control

At Sketch Studios, we believe workplace design should not only look good, but work brilliantly for the people who use it. Our approach combines data-led strategy with human-centred design, ensuring that every space we shape drives productivity, wellbeing, and cultural alignment. Whether you're retrofitting an existing office or developing a new environment from scratch, we bring together consultancy, design, and fit-out expertise to deliver solutions that are both visionary and pragmatic.

Each of the following strategies is something Sketch Studios can support end-to-end, from the initial workplace strategy workshops to detailed space planning and delivery.

Implement Activity-Based Working Zones

Design your workspace to support various tasks by creating distinct zones:

• Focus Areas: Quiet spaces with minimal distractions for deep work.

• Collaboration Zones: Open areas equipped with whiteboards and flexible seating to encourage teamwork.

• Social Spaces: Informal lounges or café-style settings to foster casual interactions and relaxation.

This zoning approach accommodates different work styles and can boost overall productivity.

Prioritise Ergonomic Furniture

Invest in adjustable desks and chairs that support proper posture and reduce physical strain. Ergonomic furniture not only enhances comfort but also contributes to employee well-being and efficiency.

Integrate Biophilic Elements

Incorporate natural elements such as indoor plants, natural lighting, and organic materials. Biophilic design has been shown to reduce stress and increase creativity, positively impacting productivity.

Optimise Acoustics

Use sound-absorbing materials, acoustic panels, and designated quiet zones to minimise noise distractions. A well-managed acoustic environment supports concentration and reduces stress levels.

Leverage Smart Technology

Implement smart systems for lighting, climate control, and scheduling to create a responsive and efficient workspace. Technology can streamline operations and adapt the environment to employees' needs in real-time.

Embrace Flexible Working Models

Flexible design spaces support both in-office and remote work, with adaptable layouts and technology that facilitate seamless transitions between different work modes.

Focus on Sustainability

Utilise eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient systems, and sustainable practices in office design. Sustainable environments not only reduce environmental impact but also resonate with employees' values, enhancing engagement.

Incorporate AI and Advanced Technologies

Explore the integration of AI for personalised environmental controls, predictive maintenance, and enhanced user experiences. Advanced technologies can create more intuitive and efficient workspaces.

Design for Well-being

Prioritise elements that support mental and physical health, such as access to natural light, wellness rooms, and spaces that encourage movement. A focus on well-being can lead to increased employee satisfaction and productivity.

1. What is a workplace design?

Workplace design refers to the planning and arrangement of a workspace to create an environment that supports the needs and activities of employees. It encompasses the layout, furniture, lighting, acoustics, and overall aesthetics to enhance productivity, comfort, and well-being.

2. What are the principles of work design?

The principles of work design include functionality, flexibility, sustainability, and ergonomics. A well-designed workplace prioritises the efficient use of space, adapts to changing needs, minimises environmental impact, and ensures that the physical setup supports employee health and comfort.

3. What is a work design approach?

A work design approach involves strategically creating a work environment that aligns with the organisation's goals and the needs of its employees. This approach considers factors like space utilisation, employee collaboration, and technological integration to create a productive and engaging workspace.

4. What is a good work design?

A good work design is one that effectively balances aesthetics and functionality. It ensures that the workplace is not only visually appealing but also optimised for productivity and employee well-being. Key elements include ergonomic furniture, adequate lighting, collaborative spaces, and areas that allow for focused work.

5. What are the objectives of workplace design?

The primary objectives of workplace design are to enhance productivity, promote employee well-being, support collaboration, and reflect the company's brand and culture. A well-designed workplace also aims to maximise space efficiency and create an environment that can adapt to future changes.

6. Why does workplace design matter?

Workplace design matters because it directly impacts employee satisfaction, productivity, and overall business performance. A thoughtfully designed workspace can boost morale, reduce stress, and foster a sense of community, all of which contribute to a more effective and engaged workforce.

7. What is the concept of workplace design?

The concept of workplace design revolves around creating a physical environment that supports the tasks and goals of an organisation. It includes the strategic placement of workstations, the selection of materials and finishes, and the incorporation of technology to create a space that enhances both individual and team performance.

8. What are the 7 elements of workplace design?

The seven elements of workplace design typically include:

• Space Planning: Efficient use of available space.
• Lighting: Adequate and appropriate lighting to reduce eye strain and improve focus.
• Furniture: Ergonomic and functional furniture that supports various work activities.
• Acoustics: Managing noise levels to create a comfortable environment.
• Technology: Integrating the latest technology to support work tasks.
• Aesthetics: A design that reflects the company’s brand and creates a pleasant atmosphere.
• Sustainability: Incorporating eco-friendly materials and practices to minimise environmental impact.

9. What are the benefits of workplace design?

The benefits of workplace design include improved productivity, enhanced employee satisfaction, better collaboration, and a stronger company culture. A well-designed workspace can also reduce absenteeism, lower stress levels, and attract and retain top talent.

10. Does workplace design increase productivity?

Yes, workplace design can significantly increase productivity. By creating a comfortable and efficient environment, employees are more likely to be focused, motivated, and engaged. Features like ergonomic furniture, proper lighting, and designated areas for collaboration and concentration all contribute to higher productivity levels.