Diveristy, equity and inclusion
Five tips for more inclusive office spaces
Make these five characteristics a core part of your design.
Companies and their leaders are becoming increasingly aware of a universal truth – our workforce is made up of a unique mix of people with a wide variety of personality and learning types, and they all have different needs.
In the past, many offices used a one-size-fits-all approach to space design, we now know that is far from the most ideal way forward, leaving many feeling left out and excluded.
But in bright contrast, providing team members with options around how and where they get their work done, can lead to increased levels of energy, excitement and productivity. In turn, helping people feel truly comfortable with your work environment.
Want to make your teams feel seen but unsure where to begin?
We’ll help you get started.
1.Photography by
The Jopwell Collection
courtesy of Unsplash
The Jopwell Collection
courtesy of Unsplash
Desk work isn’t for everything
Workers don’t need to be chained to a desk. Think through the types of tasks, personalities and learning styles of current and future team members.
Consider a mix of private and collaborative space options, ready to meet the needs of small to large size working groups.
2.Photography by
Alexander Pemberton
courtesy of Unsplash
Alexander Pemberton
courtesy of Unsplash
Cozy = comfort
Chairs that have you squirming all day in discomfort are out. Make a mix of cozy furniture options available.
Furniture that is too uncomfortable will be nothing but a distraction. Consider different options that allow for people to move and mix up their posture throughout the day.
3.Photography by
Bruno Guerrero
courtesy of Unsplash
Bruno Guerrero
courtesy of Unsplash
Keep it light
Just say no to harsh, bright fluorescent lights.
Lighting that is too bright can be draining. Instead, look for lamps, dimmable lights, and natural light options that can be a bit easier to take in.
4.Photography by
Jacky Chiu
courtesy of Unsplash
Jacky Chiu
courtesy of Unsplash
Bye bye chaos, hello calm
It’s a balancing act. Too much artwork, design, and flashy colours can lead to sensory overload fast. Help set minds at ease with calming colour palettes to transport them to a serene space.
More calm energy = better preparation for the day.
5.Photography by
Toa Heftiba
courtesy of Unsplash
Toa Heftiba
courtesy of Unsplash
No gatekeeping
Make sure everyone can access every possible amenity with ease. You never know who might need them most!
Rather than making these options executive or elitest perks, allow everyone to reap the benefits.
Learn how to make your office feel like a retreat by design, how neurodivergent workers experience the office, and more in our recent Viewpoints article, Neurodiversity: designing workplaces for inclusion.