August 10, 2020
Office Design Tips to adapt post Office design makes a great perk for employees. Think about treadmill desks, nap pods, large sofas, recreational area, mounted sofas
However, a study by Future Workplace called “The Employee Experience” uncovers the reality is that employees long for something far more elemental and necessary to human needs.
Access to natural light and views of the outdoors are the number one attribute of the workplace environment, outranking other attractions such as cafeterias, fitness centers, and premium perks. Over a third of employees felt that they lack enough natural light in their workspace. Naturally, 47% of employees admit they are tired or very tired from the absence of natural light or a window at their office, and 43% report feeling gloomy because of the lack of light.
These stats underline the new direction of employee well-being. This increased need for natural light or outdoor views may be due to increased smartphone usage.
These are a few examples of how natural light benefits your organization:
1. Employees report reduced headaches
As per the experts on Psychology Today, employees who had a better exposure to sunlight throughout the day slept 46 minutes more a night compared to those without sunlight. It has been proven over and over again the important impact sunlight has on our bodies. It has been proved that better sleep period, intensity and pattern has an impact on human’s state of mind. Something as simple as being seated next to a window or still planning for desirable sunlight exposure across the room not only can have an effect in the better light in the workplace but also on the productivity of the employees.
2. Light and Flu??
The amount of light you receive has an impact on your immune system and your overall health. The less sleep you are receiving, the more you capable you are of coming down with the flu or any other sickness. “Natural light is critical psychologically for a person’s well being and attitude. When basic needs are met employees can excel in other areas of their job performance,” said Debby Farley.
3. Increased Productivity and Concentration
With a brightly lit office or work area, the mind finds it easy to be focused, stimulated about any topic. Concentration comes easily to us. However, offices and organizations prefer fluorescent light. But natural light can significantly impact employee well-being. “Light creates energy and we all want and need more energy!” said Jessica Pagel.
4. Boosts Creativity
The amount of light has always been proportional to creative ideas. Remember the words, “it came to me in a flash!!”. Our minds are naturally tuned to work better in natural light. According to Cohere, offices with access to sunlight and greenery have a direct impact on people’s creative power boosting it by 15%. therefore it’s no surprise when daylight is the number one wanted natural feature in the workplace. “Natural light is very important to a workspace. The light improves employee’s moods and their feelings of well-being,” said Gary McIntosh.
5. Natural Light is the Best Light for your Space
LED or fluorescent light do their duty, they are no match for natural light. Not only will it have a beneficial impact on your team, but it will also be positive for the environment. According to a report with better, indirect natural light, it resulted in energy savings of about 30 lakh rupees per year.
Natural light has so many benefits that it’s important to note how it’s having an impact on your space and something to most definitely think of while building your new office.
