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A workplace where everyone feels welcome – Employee’s Perspective (1/4)
Creating magical workspaces requires a seamless blend of form, function, and movement. Such spaces celebrate diversity and encourage inclusivity, nurturing a sense of belonging. They create a balance between individual expression and collective harmony and are customized to the needs of those who inhabit them.
Here’s how you can create a harmonious space for your team.
(NOTE: This is the first in a series of four blogs on workspace design. as seen from the eyes of its stakeholders – employees, employer, architect/designer & investors)
Layout design
For interior design to have a sense of belongingness, the arrangement of objects plays a crucial role.
So, design an open floor plan to promote teamwork and communication among employees. To keep the space feeling open, use low cubicles or bench-style workstations. For meetings and brainstorming sessions, include relaxing lounge areas with adjustable seating. In some places, naked ceilings can be used to give the room a modern feel and make it appear taller and more spacious.
Cultural sensitivity
Be sensitive to cultural differences. Create a neutral, inclusive workspace design that does not give preference to any one culture or religion.
During relevant holidays or cultural awareness months, encourage staff members to share their cultural traditions and celebrate diversity through activities and decorations.
Inclusive design
Make certain that the workplace is made accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities. Install wheelchair ramps, accessible lavatories, and movable desks and chairs.
Scale and proportion of design elements
The idea of scale and proportion revolves around how items fit together in your space.
Proportion refers to the relationship between the sizes of different elements. The term scale describes how well your pieces fit in the room.
Having a pleasing composition of design in the workspace improves the productivity of employees. Make sure the interior design elements, such as windows and doors, are proportionate to the architectural elements, such as shape, line, and space.
Although this is a mathematical aspect of interior design, your eye can quickly identify when something does not seem right.
For instance, adding tall furniture or vertical design elements to a room with high ceilings can help balance the space’s verticality and produce a pleasing composition. When arranging art, pay attention to how the pieces work together as a whole.
Flexibility
Design spaces that can be easily personalized. Giving people choices for furniture placement, lighting intensity, and color schemes enables them to personalize the space to their tastes.
Give them the freedom to add personal touches to their workspaces, such as pictures, artwork, or other items. This instills a sense of ownership and promotes self-expression.
Focal points
The focal point of a room is the feature of the design that grabs your attention as soon as you enter the space. It simply means the “center or main point of interest.”
Design interior elements around key features, such as a reception desk, feature wall, statement furniture, or stunning window; this creates a cohesive visual narrative.
Enhance the space by incorporating a meaningful painting. Focal points become the anchors that draw people together and evoke a sense of community among them.
Color scheme
Different colors can evoke specific emotions and moods. Use hues that boost serotonin and the creative thinking of those who will be using the space. Also, use different colors strategically to define different zones and break monotony within the office.
Carefully consider the color combinations to create a well-balanced palette and reduce distractions.
Branding
Integrating brand elements and colors into the office space is not just a matter of aesthetics; it impacts employees’ affinity for the workplace. It helps build a strong sense of brand identity, fosters a sense of belonging, and contributes to a positive and motivating work environment.
Wrapping up
Keep in mind that a thoughtfully designed office space should place the comfort and productivity of your employees at the forefront, all the while mirroring your company’s culture and values. Striking a harmonious balance between aesthetics and functionality is key.
In order to find the perfect harmony, try out different combinations, trust your instincts, and let your creativity guide you.