List: 6 things that increase well-being in the office

Enjoying work is important for achieving high productivity and commitment. Research shows that the office environment plays an important role in whether or not employees enjoy their work. What is an optimal office environment differs from company to company and it is difficult to say exactly what is right and wrong. Based on our collective experience, we have selected some broad and, in our opinion, given areas that we suggest you tackle if you want to improve the well-being of your office. Below are 6 well-established and in some cases also statistically proven factors that can increase well-being in your office environment:

1. Lighting makes a difference
The right lighting not only affects our vision and health, but can also increase productivity. A study by The Future Workplace found that 70 % test subjects were more productive with better lighting. Having access to natural light can also increase well-being. For example, workplaces can be placed near windows and have glass walls to create a light and open atmosphere. Having pendant lights over the workplaces to compensate for the lack of light from ceiling lights or windows can be a good solution.

2. Ergonomic and comfortable furniture
Having ergonomic furniture is another important factor in creating a healthy work environment. It is important to sit on chairs that support the back and do not cause pain. ELJ's best-selling office chair Marseille is a good example of such. Even height-adjustable desks can reduce back pain and increase productivity through the ability to adapt them to personal preferences. It is important to be able to stand up for circulation. Check out our popular Up & Down Two adjustable table for a powerful, stylish and ergonomic alternative.

3. Temperature control
Having a well-regulated temperature is also an important factor for well-being in the workplace. A study published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology showed that employees performed better at a temperature of 22 degrees. Being able to adjust the temperature according to individual preferences can also increase comfort. Invest in a centrally controlled ventilation system to always maintain a good temperature in the room. A big productivity culprit that many of us recognize is sitting and trying to work during winter time in an environment that is too cold. It can be difficult to concentrate on work when the temperature steals focus. The same applies in summer when it gets too hot and stuffy. Simpler fans rarely help much. Having a good temperature all year round ensures that your staff can perform at their peak and that you get things done in the office.

4. Sound level
Having an appropriate noise level is another factor that affects well-being in the workplace. A high sound level can lead to stress and distract from work, while a low sound level can be too quiet and increase the feeling of isolation. Having the ability to adjust the sound level and having sound-absorbing materials in the room can help create balance. A good example of a sound-absorbing product from ELJ is our very stylish and efficient table screen Silencio, which is often purchased in combination with a desk to reduce noise and disturbances from surrounding areas.

5. Green plants
Having green plants in the workplace has been shown to have many positive effects. Compared to the small investment required, this is one of the first and easiest measures you can take to improve comfort. A study by the University of Queensland showed that productivity increased by 15 % when there were plants in the workplace. Real green plants can also help reduce stress and improve air quality.

6. Social surfaces
Having the opportunity to socialize and interact with colleagues can also increase well-being in the workplace. For example, common areas such as kitchens or meeting rooms can promote social interaction. This can lead to an increased sense of belonging and teamwork, which in turn can lead to increased productivity and performance. Have you thought about decorating to intentionally create space for social spaces? Is there room to relax, play games or exercise at your workplace? A good way to start with this is always to ask your employees what they lack and what they would appreciate most. You can then formulate your plan to create new social spaces. Take a look at our environmental pictures tab for inspiration. If you find something you like, you can email us at info@elj.se and we will find the products for you. We can also suggest suitable product combinations.

Create something that works for your unique workplace
We want to point out that these factors are not a universal solution for creating well-being in the workplace. It is important to consider individual preferences and needs to create an environment that works for everyone. For example, some employees may prefer silence while others are more comfortable with a certain noise level.

A good working environment is not a cost but an investment
Creating a pleasant working environment is therefore not only important for the employees' well-being, it can also affect the company's profitability and success. Satisfied employees tend to stay longer in their workplace, which reduces staff turnover and saves the company money for recruitment and training. A pleasant work environment can also improve company culture and attract talent.

Good luck with your work environment!