The Key To Health, Wellbeing And Productivity? A Well-Designed Office, Of Course

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There is "overwhelming" evidence to show that well-designed offices help to boost health, wellbeing and productivity of staff in the workplace, according to a new study from the World Green Building Council.

Anything ranging from good air quality to a 'room with a view' can affect the health, satisfaction and job performance of office workers. This leads experts to suggest that how a building 'works for people' should be a priority.

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With salaries and employee benefits making up 90% of the average company's expenditure, higher construction or occupation costs for better offices are far outweighed by even small improvements to employee productivity, the council argues.

While low-carbon buildings are not automatically healthier and more productive for occupants, "green" measures such daylight or natural ventilation can often be a virtuous circle of good design that works for both people and planet, the report said.

Better air quality in the office could lead to productivity improvements of 8% to 11%, research suggests.

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5 Ways To Introduce Plants To Your Office

In the corner(01 of05)

Is there a free corner of your office which could benefit from a large potted plant? If so, you know what to do... (We recommend planting a 'rubber plant' as they are well-known for removing indoor air pollutants.) (credit:archideaphoto via Getty Images)

On your desk(02 of05)

If you're suffering from serious lack of motivation then try popping a small plant (or two) on your desk. For a quirky slant, use a vintage teapot as a planter. (credit:Jill Ferry via Getty Images)

On your end-of-desk pedestal(03 of05)

See that space at the end of your desk, the one where the end-of-desk pedestal is sat? That unused surface is crying out for a bit of greenery. Place a row of cacti in a rectangular planter, then fill with pretty pebbles to cover up the soil. Alternatively if you love a bit of earth, leave the soil for all to see. (credit:Brett Stevens via Getty Images)

Hanging from the ceiling(04 of05)

Plants aren't just for desks. Hanging baskets can work indoors, too. (credit:Prasit photo via Getty Images)

On a wall(05 of05)

Whilst being relatively difficult to maintain, a green feature wall is super cool and should get the whole office talking (and hopefully, working!). (credit:Rosalind Simon via Getty Images)

Meanwhile other factors including lighting, views of nature, noise and acoustics, layout, and access to amenities such as gyms, bicycle storage and green space can have impacts on health and productivity.

Jane Henley, chief executive of the World Building Council, said: "The evidence linking good office design and improved health, wellbeing and productivity of their staff is now overwhelming.

"There is unquestionably a clear business case for investing in, developing and occupying healthier, greener buildings."

Geoff Dutaillis, group head of sustainability at Lend Lease, said: "Whatever business you are in, you are in the business of people. How a building 'works for people' should be the priority question.

"This report provides further evidence that workplaces with clean air, natural daylight and engaging and adaptable layouts all contribute to making healthier, happier and more motivated individuals who create stronger, more resilient and profitable companies."

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