The evolution of workplace design for wellbeing and productivity

Workplace design has continually evolved, with a growing emphasis on comfort and wellbeing. Oxford University studies show that happy employees are 13-20% more productive than unhappy ones, highlighting the direct link between workplace environment and performance. Thankfully, the days of staring at four blank walls with no natural light or views are behind us. Open-plan offices are now the norm and we are learning that employees’ happiness is increasingly related to their surroundings. Environmental quality within a workplace can be assessed by determining the functional comfort of occupants. A well designed environment enhances productivity, while a poorly designed one can make even simple tasks more difficult.

The shift to remote work during the global pandemic has fundamentally changed how we think about office spaces. Today, designers are focusing on creating spaces that entice people back to the office by making people feel safe, happy and connected to their surroundings.
 
Biophilic design incorporates nature into workplace design, to foster a connection between architecture, interiors and nature, creating spaces that enhance wellbeing. Research by architect and health science researcher, Roger Ulrich on Stress Reduction Theory suggests that humans instinctively respond to nature in ways that reduce stress and promote restoration. Additionally, studies by physiologist Jie Yin have shown that elements such as greenery and natural materials, can lower heart rate and reduce anxiety. Integrating nature into the workplace is vital for supporting mental health and both direct and indirect connections to nature can help enhance a sense of wellbeing.
 
Workplaces designed with nature in mind include natural light and ventilation, the use of natural and tactile materials, natural forms and shapes along with direct access to nature wherever possible. These spaces can provide a calming backdrop to daily work life, allowing individuals to disconnect from the pressures of their busy world and reconnect with their environment without having to leave the office. By offering moments of rest and reset, such spaces allow people to recharge mentally and physically, returning to their work with renewed focus, creativity and productivity.

Resimercial design is also an important design consideration as it merges the comforts of home into the contemporary workplace. This approach creates inviting spaces for employees to take valuable downtime during the workday.  It provides the opportunity to escape the corporate world and take a moment to unwind and relax in a familiar, calm environment. As designers, our clients are no longer asking to design workplaces that maximise capacity and squeeze as many workstations in as possible. Instead, they recognise the benefits of a more human-centric approach that includes large breakout spaces, fully equipped kitchens, in-house cafes and soft furnishings. These encourage movement, social interaction and frequent breaks, all of which help reduce stress and improve overall wellbeing.

As businesses continue to adapt to new ways of working, the emphasis on wellbeing driven design will only grow. Flexible workspaces that balance collaboration with quiet zones, access to outdoor terraces or green spaces and technology that supports hybrid work models are becoming key priorities. Employees now expect more from their work environment, a place that not only facilitates productivity but also supports their physical and mental health. The workplaces of the future will be designed with a deeper understanding of human needs, so that they remain as places where people want to be, not just where they must be.

As workplace design continues to evolve, the focus is shifting from efficiency alone to fostering environments that support happiness, health and productivity. By prioritising wellbeing, we can create workplaces that not only function effectively but also enrich the daily lives of those who use them.

As a Senior Building & Interior Design Consultant at GHD Design, Amy has worked in Australia and the United Kingdom on public and private interior workplace projects, shaping her experience in architectural and interior design. With over 20 years of experience, she has successfully delivered both large-scale and smaller boutique projects. A major project in her portfolio was serving as a lead designer for the Queen’s Square Law Courts in Sydney. A skilled collaborator, Amy excels in multi-stakeholder environments, with thoughtful and successful design outcomes.