Does investing in workplace design truly improve business performance, or is it just an expensive way to look modern?
While it’s right to be sceptical, the evidence is clear – research consistently shows that thoughtful workspace design directly impacts bottom-line results.
However, it’s not always as simple as creating sparkly new spaces without paying fair attention to the exact components that assemble a top-quality workspace.
Let’s examine the evidence behind workplace design’s impact on business performance.
What the Research Shows
Multiple studies have examined how office design affects business performance, productivity and employee satisfaction.
The evidence consistently demonstrates that thoughtful workplace design delivers measurable benefits across all metrics. Here are several key findings from leading studies:
- 82% of staff enjoy well-designed workplaces vs 61% in basic spaces (Leesman)
- 87% of workers perform better with the right workspace benefits (Fellowes)
- 93% of tech workers say good workspace design would keep them at a company longer
- 80% would proudly show visitors their well-designed office (vs 51% in basic spaces)
- Staff in well-designed spaces report better collaboration and fewer sick days
Creating an Effective Workplace
So how do you go about building effective, optimised workspaces?
The WELL Building Standard has spent years researching what works in office design. Here are the features that genuinely improve how people work:
- Natural light and good ventilation
- Mix of quiet and collaborative spaces lets people choose the right setting
- Well-planned social areas encourage informal collaboration
- Ergonomic furniture prevents fatigue and health issues
- Smart layout reduces wasted time and movement
While every workspace is different, mixing and matching these elements is a sure bet for creating a more productive environment.
Measuring the Returns
Let’s talk about the bottom line. Smart office design isn’t cheap, but the returns come through multiple channels. Understanding these benefits helps make sense of the investment:
- Lower energy bills through efficient systems
- Reduced sick days with better air quality
- Higher staff retention in quality environments
- Enhanced client perception and brand image
- Future-proof spaces that adapt as needs change
It’s vital to remember these returns pay over the long-term, resulting in steady ROI from workspace design efforts.
Time to Rethink Your Workspace?
It’s well-documented that thoughtful office design delivers huge business benefits in both the short and long-term, and for both employees and employers.
Get it right, and you’ll create a workspace that boosts productivity, keeps talent, and adapts as your business grows.
Ready to explore how better office design could transform your workspace? Contact Spaceway to get started.