How Sensory Design Can Create Efficient Workplaces
Workplace habits continue to shift in the post-pandemic environment , with work-from-home being an option for some , alongside hybrid and in-person work policies .
According to a recent survey , almost 50 % of workplaces require or will require a return to full-time in-person work within the year .
Returning to the office will require employees to adapt to new situations , especially to the lack of environmental control . Workplace leaders will need to consider the individual needs of employees by creating environments that promote wellbeing and creativity .
As companies re-evaluate physical spaces , it is important that they understand how sensory distraction can lead to cognitive distraction - negatively impacing productivity . Planning for cognitive and sensory wellbeing aids people ’ s chance of feeling comfortable within the environment and being more effective .
The Power of Human-Centred Design Organisations will need to balance the needs of the individual employee with the business objectives for a built space . Although it may seem obvious today , it ’ s important to look back at workplaces from the past to determine what we can learn from these eras of office planning .
A human-centred approach ; being empathetic to people ’ s sensory uniqueness ; reflects the philosophy that effective design should be informed by the occupants of a space . For example , the acoustic , textural and visual qualities of materials , furniture and lighting selections influence how people experience a space . While highly textured and colourful spaces can help spur creativity , the use of soft surfaces and natural colours can contribute to a sense of calm .
Integrating Sensory Design Many psychologists work off the idea that there are five basic dimensions of personality , known as the ‘ Big Five Personality Traits ’, or OCEAN model : openness to experience , conscientiousness , extraversion , agreeableness and neuroticism . Each personality type shapes how someone identifies with and responds to their environment and colleagues . Their sensory profile influences their productivity and performance based on their current environment . This results in a neurodiverse group of employees .
With such diversity , it is critical that work environments offer a variety of spaces that cater to differing sensitivities and distraction levels . Each employee can then transition through the different workspaces based on their preferences and changing sensory .
The Role of Biophilic Design As humans , we have an inherent attraction to nature . Through biophilic design , we can enhance health and wellbeing by improving connections to nature .
Within biophilic design , there is a scale of sensory stimuli to consider . High sensory environments are more social , open and collaborative , with lots of sensory input and diverse activity , reminiscent of a rainforest . In contrast , a low sensory environment is devoid of most stimuli , and often features low lighting , soft furnishings and as little noise as possible .
Offering a range of spaces allows each employee to consider their own personal preferences and apply them to how they approach the task at hand , so they can deliver their best work .
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