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“When you spend eight hours of your day at work, and eight hours at home, there is no reason why your workplace should be any less of a community than your home.” – A Pattern Language, Christopher Alexander, 1977  

With recent news that Amazon is pushing to end remote working, we still find ourselves trying to navigate the post-COVID workplace, which makes us think that the importance of space planning for employee well-being has never been more evident. Inspired by the Blue Zone research project and Christopher Alexander’s A Pattern Language, we delve into how thoughtful space design can foster a thriving organisational community.

Space Planning: A Foundation for Wellbeing

Effective space planning goes beyond aesthetics. It’s about creating a physical environment that supports employee well-being and enhances organisational efficiency. By optimising your workspace, you can:

  • Foster Community: Encourage collaboration, knowledge sharing, and a sense of belonging among employees.
  • Enhance Productivity: Create spaces that enable efficient work and minimise distractions.
  • Nurture Employees: Provide a supportive environment that promotes well-being and job satisfaction.
  • Optimise Performance: Streamline workflows, reduce waste, and create a more sustainable and efficient workplace.

The Evolving Workplace: A Need for Community and Engagement

The modern workplace has evolved beyond a mere place of work. It’s a hub for collaboration, innovation, and personal growth. Recognising the value of community is crucial for fostering a thriving work environment.

Key Takeaways from A Pattern Language:

  • Public Spaces within the workplace: Provide opportunities for social interaction and information exchange.
  • Choice and Flexibility: Offer a variety of spaces to accommodate different work styles and preferences.
  • Quiet Zones: Create spaces for focused work and uninterrupted concentration.
  • Biophilic Design: Incorporate natural elements to enhance well-being and reduce stress.
  • Intergenerational Mixing: Encourage collaboration across age groups to foster knowledge sharing and mentorship.

Designing for Human Needs:

To create a truly effective workplace, we must remember that we are designing for people, not just spaces. By incorporating these principles, you can create a workplace that supports social exchanges, encourages engagement, and fosters a sense of belonging.

Conclusion

Space planning is not just about aesthetics; it’s a strategic investment in the well-being of your employees and the success of your organisation. By creating a thoughtfully designed workspace, you can cultivate a positive and productive work culture.

If you’d like to discuss your office space and how ISL might be able to help invigorate it, please get in touch!