Wellbeing in the Workplace

WELL-BEING IN THE WORKPLACE

A visual study exploring various elements of interior design that have a direct impact on an individual’s well-being and focusing on how these can be used to promote and support positive well-being within a workplace.

Demonstrate this through the development of a concept converting an area from bad to good design and integrating aspects researched throughout.

IMPORTANCE OF WELL-BEING ON DESIGN.

RESEARCH AND ANALYISIS:

Good design is a key aspect when considering mental health. The environments that surround us play a large role, greatly influencing our well-being. Office design needs to meet the basic human needs in order to promote a healthy environment. Good design focuses on improving an area to make it better suited to its purpose. When designing an office the focus should be to improve the environment for the workers in order to make them more productive and focused. Through designing for well-being this can be achieved.

NEGATIVE DESIGN.

Crowding

Dull colours

Limited natural light sources

Artificial light

No greenery

Enclosed workspaces

Artificial materials

POSITIVE DESIGN.

Minimal furniture

Bright colours

Natural materials

Large Windows

Primarily natural light

Various green elements

Open workspaces

Breakout areas

BIOPHILIA.

RESEARCH AND ANALYISIS:

A concept which is used within the building industry to allow individuals within a space to connect to the natural world, something that has been proven to increase our productivity and contribute to more positive well-being. Biophilic interiors reference natural elements in both obvious and subtle ways and further enhance the harmony between modern design and the natural world.

TECHNIQUES USED.

DIGITAL ILLUSTRATION:

All illustrations are sketched on paper and refined on an iPad using the program Procreate. Multiple layers are used to add depth to the illustration to make it as realistic as possible.

DIGITAL COLLAGE:

Used Procreate app to layer images and add shading for specific colleges - allows for images to be manipulated to show what they would look like with different materials.

DIGITAL RENDERING:

Programs used for digital renderings of concepts were SketchUp and Enscape. Creates realistic models.

ELEMENTS OF BIOPHILIC DESIGN CAN INCLUDE.

NATURAL SHAPES

MATERIALS

PROCREATE.

7.

8.

NATURAL SHAPES

NATURAL MATERIALS PLANTS

COLOUR

OUTDOOR ENVIRONMENT SOUND

VISUAL CONNECTION

NON-VISUAL CONNECTION

2.

3. 4. 5.

9.

(GREEN DOT REPRESENTS A CONNECTION TO BIOPHILIC DESIGN THAT CREATES A BIOPHILIC RESPONSE)

LAYOUT.

The aim for an office layout is streamlined workflow, keeping in mind employee satisfaction [Wondershare EdrawMax, 2021]. By having a positive layout it ensures effective use of space, effective workflow, increased productivity, comfort for employees and a disturbance-free workplace, ultimately having a positive impact on productivity and well-being.

RESEARCH & ANALYSIS. POSITIVE OFFICE LAYOUT.

Open plan

Natural Light

No clutter

Clear circulation paths

Minimal corridors

Areas for collaboration

Variation of open and closed off areas

REQUIRED SPACES IN AN OFFICE.

EXPERIMENTATION - CONCEPTS.

BEFORE. AFTER.

Reception

Kitchen

Common Area Outdoor Area

WAYS TO CREATE ENCLOSED AREAS WITHOUT WALLS.

Natural Flow

Maximum Light potential

Uncluttered

Welcoming

Motivating

Variety of areas

FORMS/SHAPES.

Through the use of natural forms and shapes, designers bring elements of nature into their designs in a subtle manner. Forms add dimension and attract the eye, allowing the space to be more enjoyable for individuals.

RESEARCH AND ANALYSIS:

SMOOTH EDGES OVER SHARP EDGES

Structural forms - curved, streamline, smooth

Takes inspiration from natural elements

Subtle features = unified

Mixture of curved and straight elements - contrast and balance REPLICATION/EXPERIMENTATION.

MODULAR COUCH.

Eyes follow curved shapes easier than sharp

Better suited to the natural movements of necks

Sharp corners throw eyes off natural path

Curves embody attributes that we are gravitate towards: safe, gentle, promotes calmness and relaxation

CURVED DESK.

Feature curve - ergonomic design

Accessible design

Modular - user and environment adjustable

WALL MOUNTED BENCH.

Modular System - buildable - adds subtle curves

User friendly - adaptable

Minimalistic design

Balance of curved and straight edges

Effective use of space

Multi-functional - seating/storage

FORMS/SHAPES.

REPLICATION/EXPERIMENTATION.

CEILING FEATURE.

WINDOW.

Mirror reflects featured designedenhances effect on ambience

Backlit - draws attention to curves

Two curved elements

Irregular Shape LEDGE.

Imitates natural forms in stone

Natural material

Subtle curved edges - improved flow

EXPERIMENTATION - CONTINOUS CONECPT. BEFORE.

Irregular shaped - eye catching Paper - natural material Warm tone - comforting

AFTER.

Harsh and Sharp Edges

Smooth corners

Creates subtle flow

Imitates natural elements

Light is constantly contributing to individuals' well-being and productivity. Natural light is vital to our health so getting enough levels is something to keep in consideration. Designing offices for daylight and later adding artificial light can increase the quality of the space.

RESEARCH AND ANALYSIS:

CIRCADIAN LIGHTING.

Natural light fluctuates depending on time and season, known as the Circadian cycle, a cycle that is crucial to our health. Spending too much time indoors can affect the rhythm which causes unbalance in our productivity and well-being. This can also make it challenging to maintain consistent direct light required for specific activities such as writing or drawing.

LIGHTS THAT MOCK THIS RHYTHM.

Soft/warm in early morning and early evening. Cool bright light during midday - increases concentration and alertness.

Tuneable Light Chart - Appropriate light level for workspaces is 3500k - 4000k

NATURAL LIGHT.

Natural light it an important factor in our health and is obtained through the use of windows.

Hours of day equivalent to light colour and intensity.

CUSTOMISABLE LIGHTING.

Allows individuals to customise the lighting around to suit preferences

Achieved through desk lamps, light intensity and warmth controls, Adjustable to personal preference creates sense of control and boosts motivation

Tunable light = Less eye strain = better vision

Brand: Muuto - Various Designers

Dezeen - Various Designers

LIGHTING.

RESEARCH AND ANALYSIS:

TYPES OF LIGHTING:

PENDANT LAMP.

TABLE LAMP.

FLOOR LAMP.

RAIL LAMP.

MUUTO

CLOCKWISE: NOTE DESIGN STURIO, MUUTO, CASE FURNITURE, LIGHTINTERIOR

Variety of lights type allows for light to be directed according to the task Floor and Table - more personalised - individual use Rail and Lamp - universal use

EXPERIMENTATION - CONTINOUS CONECPT. BEFORE. AFTER.

CLOCKWISE: LIGHTINTERIOR, LAMPTWIST, MUUTO, UNKNOWN, LIGHTINTERIOR

MUUTO

CLOCKWISE: MUUTO, PHOLC, HAY, MUUTO UNKNOWN DESIGNER

CLOCKWISE: &TRADITION, IKEA, CAUSSA, SVEND AAGE HOLM-SOVENSEN

TOP: MUUTO

FURNITURE.

Not only does the layout of furniture in a workplace affect employees Well-being but the physical makeup of the piece. Furniture is designed to support human activities and states the intention of spaces. It should allow individuals to feel comfortable, relaxed and safe within an environment/atmosphere and should promote positive well-being and productivity.

RESEARCH, ANALYISIS & REPLICATION:

DESK CHAIRS.

MODULAR SYSTEMS.

User adjustable - rearrangeable for individual needs

Alternate environment for working

Can add a pop colour and natural shape for contrast

Detachable

COUCHES AND LOUNGE CHAIRS.

REPLICATION IMAGE

Ergonomically adjustable to suit user comfort preference - height, support intensity Simple design - sense of clarity and homeliness Materials such as - chrome, textured fabrics

DESKS.

Simplicity - not Overwhelming Should provide large and clear space for working

Desks with systems allow for individuals to customise work station

REPLICATION IMAGE

REPLICATION IMAGE

PODS.

REPLICATION IMAGE

Sheltered and private Acoustically insulated Promotes productivity

Varied systemsarrangements and work features

REPLICATION

Provides users with comfortable seating Pause from work environment Incorporates natural forms

FLOKK - HÅG CAPISCO

2022 VISUAL STUDY 594542T [WORDS 103]

FURNITURE.

RESEARCH, ANALYISIS & REPLICATION:

STORAGE.

REPLICATION

ON

Declutters

Structured and minimal

Customisable Shelving units, under-desk, desk organisers

Allows employees to add privacy to their working environment

User adaptablelittle to extreme privacy

Freestanding or attachable

REPLICATION

BEFORE.

Blank - Unusable/dead space

Inappropriate for office space

BLU DOT - DECADE CHAIR

REPLICATION IMAGE DINING TABLE. REPLICATION IMAGE

Natural materials - recycled plastics, wood etc..

MUUTO - LINERAR WOOD TABLE

Natural material

Simple design easy to pair with other pieces that are more complex - adds balances

AFTER.

Accommodating for individuals

User adjustable workspace

PAGE 8

MATERIALS.

Materials contribute to the overall ambience of a room. It is important that we use good quality and sustainable materials within design to ensure that it ages well and has a small impact on the environment. Specific materials have different effects on design and the people experiencing it and allows for different moods to be promoted.

RESEARCH, ANALYISIS & REPLICATION.

WOOD.

STONE.

TERRAZZO.

CONCRETE.

TILES.

BRICK.

Natural - reduces toxins Promotes good Feng Shui Cooling properties Flooring, walls, features

FABRIC.

Recyclable properties

Unique texture and colouring Hard wearing Flooring, countertops

Solid - Long lasting Low maintenance

Reduces waste materials /emissions

Multiple purposes

Adds colours

Interesting textures and patterns

Durable

Feature walls, flooring

Recyclable, Timeless Minimalistic Durable Exposed or painted

Natural (wool, hemp, cotton, etc.)

Drastically alters ambiance of interior Homely = comforting

Original SWEDESE - AMSTELLE EASY CHAIR Material Change + Wood Stain Original Wood Frame + Material Change Original + Wood Stain Material Change +HALLE - NEST EASY OTTOMAN +HALLE - FOR NOW SOFA COLLAGE COLLAGE COLLAGE PAGE 9 WHOLE PAGE

RESEARCH, ANALYISIS & REPLICATION.

SUSTAINABLE MATERIALS. RE-WOOL, KVADRAT.

It's important to make conscious material decisions to benefit ourselves and the environment. Designers are making the effort to focus on using sustainable materials. This promotes positive well-being, knowing that it is not harming the environment.

Renewable materials

Bamboo - quicker harvesting process

Moulded Plywood

43% recycled materials

FIBER CHAIR -

Collaboration: Margrethe Odgaard / Wooltext

45% recycled wool

Uses wool scraps

Upholstery textile

CIRCULAR OFFICE - URSELMANN INTERIOR

Composite: recycled plastic with FSC certified wood fibres 80% recycled plastic Interchangeable base

OTHER SUSTAINABLE MATERIALS.

Avoided design flaws, reduces unnecessary waste Entire interior consists of 'healthy materials' All materials - biodegradable, recyclable or reused

AFTER. EXPERIMENTATION - CONTINOUS CONCEPT

BEFORE.

Bland

Unmotivating Harsh on eyes

Recycled Brick

Cork Recycled Glass

Hemp

MUUTO

COLOURS.

Colours are constantly affecting our moods even when we don't realise it. Different colours have different impacts on our psychology and it is crucial to make sure that the right colours are selected to create a positive mood whilst not being overstimulating or distracting to maintain productivity.

RESEARCH, ANALYISIS & REPLICATION:

BLUE.

Encourages better mind flow

Creates a relaxing atmosphere

Lighter supports concentration, stronger = thought process

GREEN.

Refreshing - cheerful qualities

Restful

Associated with nature - Biophilic Offers safe haven and balance

ORANGE.

Promotes focus, concentration and creativity

Hue is crucial as it can be overstimulating - preferably soft hues

WARM. MUTED. COOL.

Stimulating, playful, comforting minimalistic, easy on eyes relaxing, soothing

EXPERIMENTATION - CONTINOUS CONCEPT.

COLOUR PALETTES.

Monotone - sense of simplicity and harmony

Contrasting/Complimentary - pleasing on the eye, interesting and refreshing

Designers, Top 2: Muuto, Rest: Koi Colour Studio

GREENERY.

Green elements are a large factor of biophilic design, bringing elements of the outdoors inside. An easy way to achieve this is through bringing plants indoors which enhance mental well-being so this is a key opportunity for workplaces to promote positive well-being.

RESEARCH, ANALYISIS & REPLICATION:

WHERE SHOULD PLANTS BE PLACED?

ENTRANCE.

Considered a journey to a destination

Placing plants here provides a good first impression for guests and promotes productivity.

The entrance is where air circulates the most which allows for the air entering the room to be filtered/recycled.

DEAD SPACE/CORNERS.

Adding plants to areas that have sharp corners softens up the space. This provides natural flow enhancing positive energy. Plants will add life to areas that have dead space.

fills corners easily without adding extra bulky furniture.

PERSONAL AREAS + CONSTANT FLOW

Abundance of plants replicates the sense of being in nature and releases good energy.

Placing plants in areas where there will always be people means they are constantly going to be in sight.

Plants also provide a sense of responsibility as they need to be taken care of.

Fiddle Leaf Fig

Variety of sizes

OUTDOOR SPACES.

DESIGNER 1: ISERN SERRA.

Isern primarily focuses on creating Zen spaces, targeting designs with a Zen approach. He encourages creativity, incorporating unique textures, patterns and colours within designs. Serra generally creates open and dynamic spaces, which are easily adaptable, challenging the norm whilst he does so.

RESEARCH, ANALYISIS.

REPLICATION.

ISERN SERRA

Open plan format

Minimalistic / industrial

Prominent natural features

Bold and contrasting colour palettes

Unique use of space

Effective use of natural light - large windows, selective artificial lighting

Natural curved features COLOUR.

SUBTLE DETAILS.

Muted tones

Saturated hues - not overstimulating due to colour choices

Natural features - tans, beige, cream

Enhances productivity, concentration and well-being

Adds biophilic features through subtle features - connection to nature

Corners are generally curved - creates flow

Overall sense of calmness - removes harsh edges

REPLICATION IMAGES (BOTTOM 3)

DESIGNER 2: ESTUDIO RECIENTE.

Carlos starts a project by ordering the space with a vision then begins experimenting with new materials, unique colour combinations and surprising shapes. The studio has no limits between architecture, interior design or object design. Focal points of playfulness and awareness - conscious about the environment.

RESEARCH, ANALYISIS.

REPLICATION.

CARLOS TOMAS

Pairs interesting colours

Homely feel - comforting

Contrasting colours

Busy yet organised COLOUR.

Muted tones

Borderline monotone

Primarily warm - contrast of single cool colour

REPLICATION IMAGES (BOTTOM MIDDLE + RIGHT)

DESIGNER 3: THOMAS BENTZEN.

Strives to design objects that are functional yet simple, that satisfy and spark joy. They are designed to be adjustable to meet user needs. Whilst achieving these things, he factors in durability, which ensures quality. His designs are rooted in traditional Danish design approaches and believes prototyping and model making are a key element for this process.

Head of Design for Muuto 2013 - 2015 (Muuto products have featured through this visual study).

RESEARCH, ANALYISIS. THOMAS BENTZEN

Objects to make working easier Adjustable and Adaptable Minimalistic design COLOUR.

Bright / muted tones

Gradient

Contrasting cool against warm

Comforting

FINAL CONCEPT.

REFINEMENT.

CHOSEN COLOUR PALETTE.

ROOM CONCEPT - CONTINOUS.

CHOSEN MATERIALS.

FORMS/SHAPE

LIGHTING

FURNITURE

COLOURS

MATERIALS

MATERIALS

GREENERY

FINAL CONCEPT.

AFTER.

WELL-BEING IN THE WORKPLACE...

WELL-BEING IN THE WORKPLACE, WHAT DOES IT TAKE TO DESIGN A WORK ENVIRONMENT THAT PROMOTES POSITIVE WELL-BEING AND PRODUCTIVITY?

Having difficulty staying productive whilst maintaining a positive well-being is something I have been increasingly aware of in my school workplace, due to uncomfortable furniture and poorly maintained classrooms. Consequently I decided to further research this concept from an interior design perspective. I was initially inspired by Isern Serra and Estudio Reciente, who focus on open plan spaces and interesting colour combinations.

I began by researching requirements of good design and contributing factors that benefit productivity and positive well-being. Through this, I discovered almost every element of interiors contributes to well-being and productivity in one way or another. I decided to narrow it down to eight elements, focusing on layout, forms/shapes, furniture, materials, colours, lighting and greenery.

Throughout this process, I found the most effective technique to create replications and concepts was to digitally draw them using an iPad, allowing me to successfully create realistic illustrations, something crucial for this area of design. I experimented with using images of various materials to create digital collages and used SketchUp to create realistic digital renderings of a concept office, demonstrating my findings.

In conclusion, I discovered Biophilia to be the key contributing factor, bringing natural elements of the outdoors inside. This is through, but not limited to, the use of naturally inspired forms and shapes, colours and using large windows to allow us to feel as though we are surrounded by nature.

This project allowed me to experiment with various techniques and investigate an issue that I feel doesn’t have enough recognition.

TOTAL WORD COUNT.

1,746 (Pages) + 251 (Summary) = 1997

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