The world has sped up. Not only is technology growing and increasing at an exponential rate, in June this year the planet set a new record for its shortest day. While missing 1.4602 milliseconds isn’t going to impact productivity in the workplace just yet, the speed and acceleration of our lives can make us question what is important and seek time for reflection.

What if we can give the gift of time, or the sense of it, through restorative spaces.

A restorative space is one that promotes restoration and relief from mental fatigue or stress. By providing restorative spaces in the workplace, where employees can go to recharge and refocus, we can positively influence employee mood, performance and engagement.

Research suggests that taking microbreaks throughout your workday can improve creativity and productivity. By designing and providing spaces that are conducive to mindfulness and escape we can start to counter workplace tiredness and stress, promoting employee health and wellbeing, and even improving brain function.

So how can we start to create more restorative spaces in the workplace?

MC is the world’s first prosecutorial firm to achieve WELL Platinum certification from the International WELL Building Institute (IWBI).

Embrace Biophilia

This is more than putting some indoor plants about. It’s the introduction of natural elements and shapes. Curves over straight lines tend to put people at ease and the organic, flowing visuals can evoke feelings of calmness. The use of timber, wood and stone are all ways to incorporate nature. Or better yet, is there a view to the outdoors that you can make use of.

Seating Arrangements

Incorporate inviting furniture pieces and the ability to accommodate a range of user preferences and activities. From cushions and mats through to comfortable armchairs or lounges.

A restorative breakout space for employees to escape and regroup at SkyCity.

Visual Privacy

Restorative spaces should provide an escape, but not everyone has the floor area or a specific room to dedicate to this. Meeting pods with acoustic materials can be a great way to create private restorative spaces while using floor area efficiently.

Lighting

Natural light and the ability to control lighting is a key way to influence a space and enhance its restorative capabilities.

Calming

When selecting colours, textures and forms, consider what will be calming to those using the space, and use science and research to back it up.

The inclusion of natural materials such as timber, leather and stone make this workplace design feel calm.

Workplaces can take the restorative and wellness initiative even further, with a pathway for certification set out by the International WELL Building Institute.

Matthew Trowbridge of the International WELL Building Institute says “More than ever before, companies are being held to a higher standard for how they care for their employees and manage the downstream impacts of their products and services.”

The pressure on employees to stay focused and productive is real, and prioritizing reflection, rejuvenation and recovery within the workplace is an effective way to improve workplace productivity in these conditions.