Space Age

A positive, healthy working environment can help improve our mental health. Parinaz Nia, leading design consultant at Anvari Design explained to Abode2 how the two are inextricably linked

Work life balance

As so much of our time is spent at work, the space that we inhabit during our working day can have a significant impact on our state of mind and physical wellbeing.

According to recent studies, a staggering 70 million work days are lost each year due to mental health problems in the UK, costing employers approximately £2.4 billion per year.

Leading mental health charity, MIND, estimate that globally, 264 million people suffer from depression with one in six workers experiencing common mental health problems.  Additionally, a recent World Health Organisation (WHO) study estimates that depression and anxiety disorders cost the global economy US$ 1 trillion each year in lost productivity.

With these figures in mind, it’s unsurprising that our workplace – an environment in which we spend the majority of our time – has an impact on how we feel.

This has led designers and property developers to re-evaluate their approach to designing workspaces with a focus on the wellbeing of the inhabitants.

Natural environment

Psychologists studying the environmental impact on occupants in various spaces have monitored a range of factors including health, behaviour and attitudes.

Following these studies, it’s widely thought that people who have greater exposure to natural elements in the workplace, including natural lighting and plants are happier and more committed.

In Western cultures, around 90% of our time is spent indoors. Therefore it’s important that designers consider how they can create interior spaces that inspire and enhance the work space.

Contemporary space

As individuals become more health and eco conscious, they are opting for work spaces that echo their values. Companies that reflect these life choices and provide enhanced work environments for their employees are therefore attracting and retaining the best talent.

It’s no coincidence that contemporary office design, from furniture to technology influences these issues.

Climate Change

As climate change issues loom large, designers and property specialists are focusing more attention on how we use office space and what can be done to reduce their carbon footprint – the industry currently accounts for 40% of UK carbon emissions, according to the UK Green Building Council (UKGBC).

From lighting to insulation and water usage, well thought out adaptations help reducing our carbon footprint.

Office design reflects a company’s vision, values and culture as well as extending to a firm’s advertising and marketing collateral, so it’s imperative that designers get this right.

Anvari Design create high-end design solutions for clients in the commercial and residential sectors, both in the UK and abroad.

Our designers offer bespoke solutions to client briefs and our philosophy is to create healthy and happy living and working environments that are pleasurable to spend time in.

By developing sustainable, timeless designs that incorporate durable materials, we’ve reduced our carbon footprint whilst creating healthy and productive environments that contribute to the sustainability of our planet.

www.anvaridesign.com