Why Workspace Design Matters
The design of a workspace is more than an aesthetic choice—it's a strategic decision that directly impacts productivity, employee wellbeing, and company culture. In Sweden, where the concept of "lagom" (not too little, not too much) permeates design philosophy, office spaces are created to balance functionality with comfort, minimalism with personality.
Studies consistently show that thoughtful workspace design can increase productivity by up to 20%, while poor design choices can lead to distraction, discomfort, and eventually, decreased job satisfaction. When we consider that the average person spends one-third of their life at work, the importance of an efficient, comfortable workspace becomes even more apparent.
Key Elements of Efficient Workspace Design
Creating an efficient workspace involves several key considerations:
1. Ergonomics First
Ergonomics is the science of designing the workplace to fit the user, not forcing the user to fit the workplace. An ergonomically sound office reduces physical strain and prevents long-term health issues. Consider these essential elements:
- Height-adjustable desks: Allow users to alternate between sitting and standing positions throughout the day
- Supportive chairs: Provide proper lumbar support and adjustability
- Monitor positioning: Place screens at eye level, about an arm's length away
- Keyboard and mouse placement: Position these tools to maintain neutral wrist positions
2. Spatial Planning and Flow
The layout of an office should facilitate natural movement and interaction, while still allowing for focused work. Swedish design typically emphasizes these principles:
- Activity-based working: Different zones for different tasks (focus work, collaboration, casual meetings)
- Traffic flow: Clear pathways that don't disrupt work areas
- Proximity planning: Placing frequently-used resources within easy reach
- Buffer zones: Creating transitions between noisy and quiet areas
3. Natural Light and Biophilic Elements
In the Nordic countries, where natural light is precious, especially during winter months, office design maximizes access to daylight. Additionally, incorporating natural elements creates a connection to the outdoors:
- Window proximity: Position workstations to benefit from natural light
- Plant life: Incorporate greenery to improve air quality and wellbeing
- Natural materials: Use wood, stone, and other natural elements in furniture and decor
- Views: Where possible, provide access to outdoor views
4. Organization Systems
At OrdningKontor, we believe that organization is the foundation of efficiency. A well-organized workspace reduces cognitive load, allowing employees to focus on their work rather than searching for materials. Effective organization includes:
- Personal storage: Designated spaces for individual work tools and belongings
- Shared resources: Accessible, clearly labeled common supplies
- Cable management: Systems to keep technology connections tidy and safe
- Document management: Both physical and digital filing systems that are intuitive and consistent
Implementing Swedish Design Principles
Swedish workspace design is renowned for its clean lines, functional beauty, and human-centered approach. Here's how to incorporate these principles into your office:
Embrace "Lagom"
The concept of "lagom" encourages balance—not too much, not too little. In office design, this translates to:
- Furniture that serves a purpose without excess
- Decoration that adds personality without clutter
- Technology that meets needs without complexity
Prioritize Quality and Sustainability
Swedish design values longevity over trendiness. Invest in:
- Well-crafted furniture that will last for years
- Materials that age beautifully
- Pieces that can be repaired rather than replaced
- Environmentally responsible manufacturing processes
Create Democratic Spaces
Swedish workplaces often reflect the country's egalitarian values:
- Open floor plans that don't strictly separate management
- Shared amenities that benefit everyone
- Inclusive design that accommodates diverse needs
- Collaborative areas that encourage participation
Case Study: Transforming Productivity Through Design
When Nordic Tech, a Stockholm-based software company, redesigned their office using these principles, they observed remarkable results:
- 20% reduction in reported back and neck pain among employees
- 35% increase in cross-team collaboration
- 15% decrease in sick days
- Significant improvement in employee satisfaction scores
The company attributed these improvements to several key changes:
- Replacing all standard desks with height-adjustable models
- Creating dedicated zones for different work modes
- Implementing comprehensive organization systems
- Redesigning the office layout to maximize natural light
Conclusion: The Return on Investment
While implementing efficient workspace design principles requires initial investment, the returns—in productivity, employee retention, and wellbeing—far outweigh the costs. As Swedish companies have long understood, creating a thoughtful, human-centered environment is not just good design; it's good business.
At OrdningKontor, we specialize in helping companies transform their workspaces through organization solutions inspired by Swedish design principles. Whether you're redesigning an entire office or simply looking to optimize your current space, consider how these principles might create a more efficient, productive, and pleasant environment for your team.