We recently talked about ways that office design can retain a ‘timeless’ quality – but one workplace issue that is a perennial is worker wellbeing. For any employer, it’s important that your workplace is geared towards keeping its occupants safe and healthy. Office furniture selection can actually play a part in this – and some business owners aren’t fully aware of how.
Think adjustable for musculoskeletal
According to the HSE, 8.9million working days were lost in the UK due to musculoskeletal disorders during 2019/20.
And while those numbers are largely pre-pandemic, it’s unlikely that everyone got better by working at home on the kitchen table.
As people have returned to the office or adopted some kind of hybrid working arrangement, they need furniture that lessens the risk of injury.
Think about workstation chairs that offer the correct levels of lumbar, neck and arm support and can be adjusted to suit individual users.
Similarly, the desk itself should provide enough leg room and surface space for users to sit comfortably with equipment at the correct height.
Sit/stand desks can be adjusted for different people, or at different points during the day, to improve flexibility and circulation.
And desks that can accommodate laptop docking stations which can offer a display at a recommended distance and angle are also available.
For any furniture likely to be used for several hours at a time, make sure users are aware of the correct usage and adjustments that apply.
Go softer away from the workstation
For informal or less frequently used spaces, like breakout areas, softer and more flexible office furniture can offer improved comfort for shorter periods.
This will contribute to workers feeling more relaxed and unencumbered during discussion and collaboration tasks.
And that freedom of thinking will be echoed by a lack of stiffness in sitting and movement for your team members.
Consider colour for moods
As well as the performance and functionality of your chosen office furniture, the colour can even affect worker wellbeing.
Several sources highlight the impact of colour psychology on workplaces and their occupants. For example, reds and oranges are seen as more stimulating colours, making people feel alert and awake. In contrast, shades of blue and green have a calming effect, perfect for the break room.
And aside from making the place look a certain way, the correct choices of hue can make it feel better as well.
Want to know more about office furniture?
An office interior designer with an understanding of the changes you want to make and the elements you wish to retain will provide the help you need.
If applied effectively, different furniture choices can make a huge difference to employee health and motivation.
To speak to a supportive specialist in corporate office interior design, please contact us.
