Office Space Design Conventions and Impact on Productivity
Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/business-articles/office-space-design-conventions-and-impact-on-productivity-5425505.html
A lot of people are only vaguely aware how the office layout can affect the disposition of its occupants. This is known as office psychology, and it can affect the productivity levels of workers. Since the style and theme of the office space is drawn from the creative taste of its interior designer, it is no wonder that most office space layouts are inspired by modernist trends. However, the layout typically follows the psychological process of the occupants to make them more productive.
More and more modern offices are designed to maximize social interaction between colleagues unlike the traditional cubicle setup where each employee is practically caged. This is implemented under the idea that social interaction and free communication enhances critical thinking, and generates ideas and productivity. This is characterized by open offices with wide aisles and non-enclosed stations, allowing free face-to-face communication when necessary.
The modern open office is normally wide, open, bright, and may or may not have wide windows to let in light. The view outside should allow peace of mind and help generate ideas especially for creative projects. The office space must also have a warm and welcoming reception area. This may be decorated with the company's awards, accomplishments, and goals to encourage an applicant. Some even have artwork displays or historical artifacts to stimulate the mind.
The office lobby is vital in setting the theme and atmosphere of the workplace. The modern office lobby has a spacious waiting area with comfortable seating, stimulating reading material, and even refreshments. The furnishing normally has modernist design—sleek and minimalistic to an extent yet sophisticated and relaxing. A balance must be struck to give the impression of professionalism while at the same time be relaxing.
Within the workplace itself, modern offices are designed with neatly grouped desks and equipment. This is called systems furniture. This minimalistic but adequate design minimizes company expenses and makes layout changes easier. This allows layout flexibility while permitting colleagues to communicate instead of being separated by partition walls.
A contemporary office space should also have motion- and heat-sensing lights that turn on when a person enters the room and turn off when the occupant leaves. This lets the company conserve energy and, in effect, minimize expenses. These lights are environment-friendly LED or Xenon bulbs. These are more effective and less costly than fluorescent bulbs.