LA-Based Architect Stresses Coloring and Texture to Promote Office
Architectural design that focuses on employees’ well-being is a key element in company office buildings, creating a more welcoming space amid increasing return-to-office corporate policies.
Los Angeles-based architect Michael Williams, managing principal, director of operations at Perkins+Will and Lori Cook, director of clinical research, head of research at The BrainHealthProject and adjunct assistant professor for The University of Texas at Dallas, joined Julie Gauthier, associate principal, workplace practice leader at Perkins+Will, during a session this week at the CoreNet Global Summit in Anaheim, California.
It’s crucial to take five 5-minute mental work “brain breaks” each day to overcome stress and burnout, Cook said.
“Put your brain in airplane mode,” she said. “When you put your phone in airplane mode, it becomes mostly inactive. But it also recharges 3x faster. Same with your brain.”
Williams used his company's LA office and other office layouts, including student housing, to demonstrate key elements for break rooms.
“What’s good for the student – and their daily stresses from studying and campus life – is what’s good for the worker,” Gauthier said.
Correct Colors, Textures, and Lighting are Crucial
Particularly, blue has been linked to stress relief, and the soft, muted tone of this wall color can deepen the soothing effect, he said.
“A wood wall is an example of biophilic design – using natural materials to support well-being through our innate connection to nature,” Williams said.
“Plants are another example of biophilic design, with the added benefit of filtering the air. Using warm, low light transports you from the bright glare of fluorescence into a calm, meditative space.”
Benefits can also come from a properly designed isolation chair. It helps subtly muffle sound and reduces visual stimulation, keeping the employee comfortable and in the moment.
Adding purposely abstract paintings helps put a person at ease without introducing distraction, allowing their mind to drift gently.
“Some types of workspaces can be triggering,” Williams said.
“You have to understand what triggers individuals, but you also must realize you can’t solve everyone’s triggers through design.”
Williams said the ideal situation is when architecture, science and the built environment are combined and incorporated into an office’s policy.
Be mindful that there’s a difference between wellness and well-being, he said.
“Wellness is a measurement of your body’s health and well-being is the entirety of a person’s ability to be their best self,” according to Williams.
A company’s leadership and management must practice what they preach, Williams said, and do what they say when it comes to carrying out well-being policies – such as taking breaks during the workday – and acting on them.
Create Clear and Distinct Office Spaces
Williams stressed the importance of creating clear and distinct zones for different activities or functions within a space. Use consistent layouts across similar spaces, such as classrooms and offices, to promote familiarity and ease of navigation, he said.
His pointers were to incorporate clear, consistent signage using easily understandable symbols or pictograms. Use color, coating or visual cues to differentiate areas or guides through the space. Provide visual directories or maps to help individuals orient themselves and locate a specific area.
Use physical barriers such as walls or partitions to create distinct areas for different activities. Incorporate visual boundaries, including area rugs or floor markings, to define spaces within an open floor plan. Arrange furniture to create clear pathways and delineate different functional areas.
Source: GlobeSt/ALM