How art and design can change the way you work

The purpose of art and design is not only to represent the outward beauty and appearance of a space but it is also a tangible way to enhance the culture of an organization. When you travel or even go watch a movie, you’re going to get an all-consuming, immersive experience. Your brain gets to take a break from the real world and science tells us that’s a good thing. By giving our brains a break, we improve focus, sharpness and motivation. Why not use the fusion of design with work to support creativity in the workplace?

In the face of a crisis, the first thing an organization thinks of is rarely their office design. Creating human centric experiences through art is essential in the midst of rapid change. An elegant way to express the essence of your culture and brand is through the physical mood of the space.

Creativity is finding that big idea and having the work ethic and dedication to sit down and execute it. You need it whether you’re an accountant, filmmaker or a doctor. The presence of artwork around, creates an aesthetically pleasing workplace which in turn fosters engagement, innovation and the essence of working from home.

Here are some reasons to infuse art and design at workplace:

1)Enhances employee well-being even in high-density workplaces
Work today is both physically and cognitively demanding, and work environments should be designed to help people deal with the stress it causes. You may not be able to make the space less dense but you can do things that will make it a better experience for the people working there. Adding a splash of color, incorporating informal, lounge like settings, and dedicating more space to bring out the personality of the organization is key.

2)Boosts employee engagement and involvement
Creating spaces that foster a sense of belonging is what helps attract and retain your best workers. Data from a recent Steelcase commissioned study conducted by the global research firm IPSOS of 10,500 workers in 14 countries throughout the world provide a wake-up call for any leaders who think work environments are not a high priority—employees who are highly satisfied with the places they work are also the most highly engaged. Colors, vibrancy, and inspiring creations can bring about a change in a bland corporate space and bring life to work life.

3)Positive psychological effects of color
How form, color, materials and intuitive user interfaces influence well-being are a hot topic now and set to get much hotter. We’re drawn to places based on emotional responses. Green is often chosen for healthcare environments because of its psychological effects. But reactions to colors often vary by geography, culture, history and, of course personal preferences. It’s more important to have options so people can use the materials and colors that will evoke positive emotional responses.

In workplaces designed for well-being, every detail counts. Architecture that connects us with nature and natural light, open offices that facilitate communication with colleagues and other overarching strategies provide the framework for our work environment, but it’s in the details where a workplace becomes our work home. The spaces we work in and the products we touch and interact with can lift our mood, make us less stressed, more stimulated. They can inspire, absorb and captivate.

(The article is authored by Praveen Rawal, Managing Director, South East Asia and India, Steelcase Inc.)