Emotional stability & Workspace design

We sometimes forget that Emotional safety is as precious as Physical safety. But It’s essential that we learn to protect both- Nichole Sundine

When we design offices every minute aspect of physical safety is taken care of. Top quality materials, detailed designing and supervision of every fit out is done. Measures are taken to ensure minimum accidents and injury at workplaces. Best of the security agencies are hired, fire safety equipment is installed.

Question is then why not employees working in best of the workplaces are emotionally safe? Why there is an increase in the number of workplace depression, frustration, creativity blockage? Why there are many #metoo movements? Is it possible to ensure no such incident occurs in your workplace? Is it possible to have a design keeping the emotional safety of employees along with physical safety in mind?

There is an increasing awareness of the importance of mental health and supporting the wellbeing of employees in the workplace. Equal or even more weight should be given to emotional safety than physical safety. It is more fragile and vital to the individual and in turn for the company’s success. Success depends on the broader mode of positive emotion, which allows us to solve complex problems and foster cooperative relationships.

Emotional health should be the foundation of any workplace design because organizations thrive on its people. Specifically, how can a good design reduces the chances of emotional accidents at first place, and also supports and uplifts work spirit. There are no formal guidelines to design a workplace around emotional safety. It does not mean that this aspect should be ignored and not given high weight while designing.

Small measures can also do a lot to ensure the psychological well being of employees who spend more hours in the office than at home. Here I will only touch some simple ways which can have a long and positive impact on the psychological well being of the employee

Colour & Light Effect: The colours that we surround ourselves with on a daily basis can affect how we feel. It is scientifically proved that colours can affect our hormones. Different colours have different wavelengths and consequently plays on our moods and stress levels.

Green is a mood-enhancing and stress buster colour according to colour psychology. Use of more plants, creating larger windows creating a natural view acts as a buffer for stress triggers. It helps in creating a calm workplace with health benefits. Poorly lit places, dark corners make employees insecure and scared to use that area. Women especially are uncomfortable using poorly lit staircases, restrooms, corridors, parking areas etc. Use of a good amount of artificial light with temperature care, creating lighter colours walls can be useful in creating a sense of security.

Flexible workstations: Providing flexibility to employees to work on different stations according to their requirement boosts their morale and gives them autonomy. This creates a happier and productive environment among employees, especially for those who want independence and mobility. In this way, employees socialize more with a wider variety of people, can create more bonding and share their feelings. They can find more inspiration and can explore areas of better collaboration.

Clearer Glass for Enclosed Spaces: Employees can feel safer in an enclosed structure when it is in clear view. It is a great measure to isolate the space for a private meeting alongside providing occupants clear visual access to the happenings inside and out without any interruption. Also, the use of glass creates an illusion of bigger space and natural light filtering into the office creating a more brighter atmosphere.

Create a Wellness Area: This could be a small comfortable corner. Creating a relaxing and calm atmosphere allows employees to rejuvenate themselves and take a mental break. Mental drainage can lead to frustration and aggression. This can have a direct impact on productivity as well as in relationships. These places should be acoustically isolated to workplaces and serves as a calming factor and a place to recollect thoughts. Use of comfortable seatings, plants, window with a view of nature if possible, soothing lights and wall colours are some of the ways to create a calm nook.

These are just some of the designing tips which can go long way on creating an overall emotional impact. Corporates should take measure to create an emotional and physical space and ensure employee engagement and productivity in long run.