A Human-Centered Approach
The workplace impacts well-being, productivity,
and engagement, especially as employees
navigate sensory-rich settings. Sensory design
is crucial yet often neglected. It shapes how we
interact with our surroundings and form social
bonds.
Individual sensory responses affect how we feel
and perform at work. It's important to
acknowledge the varied ways people process
sensory inputs to create workspaces that
promote productivity and well-being,
addressing distinct needs. By focusing on a
human-centered design, we can select factors
like sound, texture, and visuals with intention to
enhance the workplace experience.
Embracing Neurodiversity
Understanding neurodiversity in sensory responses is key, making it essential to provide diverse workspaces for different preferences and sensitivities. A thoughtfully designed workplace offers various settings to support focus, comfort, and mental well-being, enabling employees to choose spaces that match their needs, fostering inclusivity and a sense of belonging.
Beyond a Single Solution
Our research utilized a sensory profile scale assessing how research participants tend to respond to stimuli such as sound, vision, and touch in their environment.
Sensory Design Considerations
Sensory design components, like atmospheric sound, privacy, lighting, biophilic elements, and ergonomic furnishings enhance workers’ belonging when tailored to personal preferences. Choices in color and intensity can make a space feel more welcoming or creatively stimulating, impacting mood and productivity.
Acoustics
Sound can be a distraction and elevate stress levels. A thoughtful acoustic mitigation plan can lead to a healthier, more engaged, high-performance workforce.
66%
decrease in workplace productivity is attributed to noise distractions.
Layout
Workplace designs that accommodate privacy preferences and embrace worker choice benefit from a more engaged and effective workforce.
50%
of workers want total privacy while working on their computer.
Textures, Hues, and Shapes
Sensory experiences like color, texture, and pattern can significantly impact a sense of belonging. It’s important to consider materials that are functional, inviting, and evoke comfort.
75%
of knowledge comes to us visually, 13% through hearing, and 12% through smell, taste, and touch.
Biophilic Elements
Enhancing well-being and fostering creativity are essential goals of biophilic design. This approach involves seamlessly integrating nature-inspired elements into spaces, promoting a connection with the natural environment.
15%
increase in overall well-being and productivity can be achieved through biophilic design.
Adjustable Lighting
Effective daylighting and adjustable lighting in indoor environments are essential for maintaining circadian alignment, promoting health, and supporting emotional and behavioral well-being.
90%
of people’s time is spent indoors.
Visual Landscapes
Clutter can hinder the ability to accurately perceive emotions and focus on tasks. Providing opportunities for personal storage can mitigate clutter and improve feelings of safety in shared spaces.
10%
increase in the amount of time it took for people to answer questions while seated at a messy desk compared to a neatly arranged desk.
