Physical pain and posture
Another important aspect, that might not have been top of mind for many of us pre-pandemic, is the ergonomics of the workspace. But after spending almost a year at the kitchen table on a wooden chair, our bodies truly feel the difference. In Sweden, sick leave due to physical and mental ailments has increased sharply throughout the beginning of autumn 2020 (according to corporate health company Previa). A serious development for the work environment that does not seem to stop.
The importance of the right ergonomics in the workplace is something interior design and furniture manufacturing company Kinnarps has known for a long time. For nearly 80 years they have created sustainable interior design solutions bearing ergonomics in mind.
– We think it is important to talk about the whole when it comes to ergonomics, both physically and pschycologically says Henrik Axell, Workplace strategist at Kinnarps. There are many different parts that affect how people feel and perform in the office and it’s important to look at the complete experience of a space. A big challenge is to build in movement, since many of us who work in the office sit for many hours every day - which has a clear negative effect on our health. Another important aspect is acoustics. In an office, there should be room for both pulse and silent focus. Both are needed to create an environment that invites collaboration, creativity and innovation as well as concentration, focus and efficiency.
By creating different zones and places for different activities that are needed in the specific office, you can create a dynamic workplace where people can choose environments according to what they are going to do. A well thought out and planned interior design solution which is designed according to mapped needs and work patterns creates the best prerequisites for the employees to feel well, thrive and perform their work in an optimal way.
