Creating the Perfect Workspace [Infographic]

Here is a simple perfect workspace infographic created by visual news that aptly showcases the nuances of a “perfect workspace”.

According to the visual, some of the elements that a perfect workspace should incorporate are:

• 50%-75% of enclosed space that can be created with a wall behind the worker and one on the side. This allows the workers some privacy without completely cutting them off from the rest of the office

• Windows that allow workers a view to the outside, with potted plants and trees outside the window

• Lights over the work area

• Open shelves

• A wall that is partially open and connects workers to each other

• An sitting circle where workers can sit together around a table and work

• Tables and chairs placed in such a way that no two people are facing each other

• Thick walls that can block excessive noise

• Open spaces and no blank walls right in front of workers

• A design that allows at least two workers to sit close to each other, but provides each worker with enough personal space. A perfect workspace is one in which individuals don’t feel too isolated or too crowded.

The  elements of the perfect workspace mentioned here have  been described by world-renowned architect, Christopher Alexander as “keys to an ideal workspace”.

Alexander is an aggressive advocate of the concept that work environment has an impact on the quality of work. He is also the producer of the Pattern Language, a concept that was popularized by the book “A Pattern Language: Towns, Buildings, and Constructions”.

In the book, and in practice, Alexander exemplified the importance of design and how a structure can significantly affect the people within it.

Even though companies understand the importance of open spaces, communication, and privacy, they often fail to create an office space that incorporates these very things.

No one want to spend every single workday is an enclosed space that is drab, inconvenient, and uncomfortable.

While the perfect workspace drives productivity and efficiency, a flawed one can lead to tensions between workers and low quality work.

Cubicles can be soul-crushing and terrifying if they are not designed correctly. Even individuals who work from home are affected by their environment and should create for themselves a workspace that is calm, quiet, and comfortable.

Norberts.