Design & Well-being at Work – What We Learned with MillerKnoll

The design of workspaces is evolving to meet the new expectations of employees and the challenges of hybrid work. During our latest event, we spoke with Mark Catchlove, Director at MillerKnoll, about the impact of design on well-being and productivity. What are the levers for creating effective and attractive office spaces? A breakdown of the trends and key insights. 

The Impact of Design on Well-Being and Productivity 

A well-designed workspace goes beyond aesthetic appeal. It directly influences employees’ mindset, engagement, and productivity. MillerKnoll, renowned for its expertise in innovative design, places research at the heart of its solutions to create environments conducive to performance. 

• Human-centered design: Every design choice should meet users’ needs and promote their daily well-being. 

• Mental health influence: A tailored workspace reduces stress, enhances focus, and strengthens the sense of belonging. 

• Research-driven approach: MillerKnoll analyzes the impact of spaces on behavior to design more effective and engaging offices.
  A well-thought-out environment improves employee satisfaction and overall performance. 

Workplace Flexibility: A New Standard 

The traditional office model has given way to a more flexible approach, where employees seek a balance between in-office and remote work. According to a recent study (Future Winter Pulse Survey 2023), flexibility is now a top priority. 

• 81% of employees want more freedom in their workplace. 

• 93% want flexible hours to manage their schedules better. 

• 85% still prefer going to the office, despite remote work. 

Companies must adapt their spaces to provide a seamless and motivating hybrid experience. 

Why Do Employees Still Want to Come to the Office? 

Despite the rise of remote work, the office remains a central hub for employees. It addresses fundamental needs that remote work cannot fully meet. 

• Collaboration and spontaneous interactions: Nothing replaces the richness of face-to-face exchanges to stimulate creativity and innovation. 

• Social connection: The office strengthens team spirit and fosters a sense of belonging. 

• Better work-life separation: A structured environment helps manage distractions and enhances concentration. 

Offices must be designed as places for meetings and efficiency, tailored to new work models. 

Assigned Desks or Hot Desking: Which Model to Choose? 

The organization of workspaces plays a crucial role in well-being and productivity. An assigned desk provides stability and reassurance, while hot desking promotes agility and adaptability. Finding the right balance is essential. 

• Comfort and stability: Employees with an assigned desk feel happier, more focused, and comfortable in their environment. 

• Flexibility and efficiency: A modular space allows employees to adapt their workspace based on tasks and interactions. 

• Space optimization: A mix of fixed desks and open-access areas maximizes space usage and enhances the employee experience. 

A hybrid setup offers each employee a workspace tailored to their needs. 

New Challenges in Office Design 

Companies today must rethink their spaces, considering several strategic challenges. The goal is to create inspiring and effective work environments. 

• Talent development: A well-thought-out workspace attracts and retains top talent. 

• Space optimization: Better utilizing available square footage to meet new demands. 

• Flexibility and well-being: Providing adaptable spaces that cater to team needs and foster engagement. 

Smart and agile design transforms the office into a genuine lever for performance and attractiveness. 

To conclude our conversation, MillerKnoll confirms that office design should not be left to chance. A thorough approach, grounded in research and expertise, is crucial to create environments that meet the evolving needs of companies and their employees. 

At ARCHDESIGN, we guide our clients through every stage of their project, from conception to completion, ensuring optimized, aesthetic, and functional spaces. Our mission is to transform offices into inspiring and high-performing environments where every detail is designed to enhance well-being and productivity. 

This article has been written by Emily Fawkner, Marketing & Growth Project Manager at ARCH.DESIGN