This is an Exclusive Guest Blog By Mr. Kunal Sharma, Founder & CEO, Flipspaces
In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the impact that our physical environment has on our overall wellbeing. As a result, interior designers are increasingly focused on creating spaces that prioritize mental and physical health. This article explores the concept of wellbeing-centric design and discusses how office interiors are adopting design choices, materials, and layouts to enhance employee wellbeing.
Incorporating Biophilic Design:
Biophilic design, which connects people with nature, is gaining prominence in commercial interior design. The use of natural elements, such as plants, natural materials, and access to daylight, has been found to reduce stress levels and increase productivity. In wellbeing-centric design, commercial interiors are incorporating biophilic elements to create spaces that promote a sense of tranquility and connection to the natural world.
Promoting Movement and Active Design:
Sedentary lifestyles have become a common concern in today’s workplace, leading to various health issues. To combat this, commercial interiors are adopting active design principles, encouraging movement and physical activity within the workspace. This includes incorporating sit-stand desks, ergonomic furniture, and providing spaces for physical exercise or stretching. Designers are prioritizing layouts that promote walking, such as open staircases and central gathering spaces that encourage employees to move and interact.
Optimal Lighting and Visual Comfort:
Lighting plays a crucial role in our overall wellbeing, affecting our mood, sleep, and productivity. Wellbeing-centric design in commercial interiors emphasizes the use of optimal lighting solutions that promote visual comfort and enhance the occupants’ experience. Natural light is prioritized, and artificial lighting is carefully designed to minimize glare and provide the right levels of illumination. Additionally, circadian lighting systems are being integrated to simulate natural daylight patterns, supporting the body’s natural rhythms.
Mindful Material Selection:
Commercial interiors are now incorporating materials that prioritize both physical and mental wellbeing. Designers are opting for low VOC (volatile organic compound) materials that minimize off-gassing and indoor air pollutants, thus improving air quality and reducing potential health risks. Additionally, designers are considering the tactile qualities of materials, focusing on incorporating textures and finishes that evoke calmness and comfort.
Creating Restorative and Relaxation Spaces:
In recognition of the importance of relaxation and mental health, commercial interiors are incorporating dedicated spaces within the workplace for rest and rejuvenation. These spaces may include quiet rooms, meditation or mindfulness areas, or outdoor green spaces. By providing employees with areas to recharge and escape from the demands of work, commercial interiors support mental wellbeing and encourage overall productivity.
Wellbeing-centric design is revolutionizing the commercial interior design space, as businesses recognize the powerful impact that the physical environment has on their employees’ mental and physical health. By adopting design choices, materials, and layouts that prioritize wellbeing, commercial interiors can create spaces that promote creativity, productivity, and employee satisfaction. As this trend continues to evolve, we can expect to see a shift towards more holistic and wellness-oriented approaches to commercial interior design, ultimately benefiting both individuals and organizations in the long run.
