Trends focus on design to boost productivity and creativity.

Workplace trends for 2019 focus heavily on how the right office environment can bring a positive impact on creativity and productivity. From minimalistic design to foster a feeling of calm to wild touches that boost brainstorm sessions, it’s possible to create an office space that reflects both brand values and amplifies the output of staff.
 

The four key things to think about before planning a design to boost creativity and productivity are:

Colour

Offices don’t have to be dull and grey. Different colours have been proven to have a psychological impact so it’s important to choose the right colour palette to optimise creativity in the workplace. It doesn’t have to be garish. Adding splashes of bold colour to different areas while maintaining a neutral environment overall can help staff feel at ease and make the most of natural light in your office space. For more details on how colour psychology effects performance see our article on the subject.

Comfort

Maximising comfort, contrary to popular belief, can be beneficial to productivity. Sofas, standing areas and break out spaces can be useful for encouraging staff to think outside the box. It’s good to have a variety of different zones for unique purposes. This can include picnic tables for informal meetings, relaxation zones for ideation sessions, pods if people need to get their head down without distraction.

Social interaction

There are many ways that office design can improve social interaction. Creating purpose-built communal spaces can help generate ideas and collaboration. Comfortable seating and the right office furniture is vital for relaxed teamwork. No matter what industry you work in, good craftsmanship and smart placement of furniture can encourage spontaneous meetings and birth ideas. Whiteboard walls are amazing resources for brainstorms and reminders. Bleachers or pods can increase collaboration. For more on furniture for collaborative spaces you might find our blog on the subject of interest. There is a great article by Forbes on the reasons why Social Interaction impacts on productivity, that we think is worth a read.

Fabrics and Materials

The fabrics and materials in an office can help foster a relaxed and flexible working environment. Bespoke joinery in the right material can really transform your space. Natural wood is especially credited with evoking positive feelings. We found this great article on how the 5 senses help inspire productivity. It confirms that haptic (or tactile) design is a relatively new field – this focuses on technology that creates an experience by touch. The article also some designers are simply advocating for a greater diversity of textures when designing office spaces. The key is to create balance, carefully selecting complementary textures (balance out a rough surfaces with smooth for example).