The workplace strategist warns: “We are forgetting to create spaces for focused work”
As hybrid working has become more common, the idea has emerged that we primarily go to the office to meet our colleagues. However, seeing the office solely as a meeting place comes at the expense of productivity, says Anna-Karin Eckerlid, Workplace Strategist at Kinnarps.
Almost half struggle to concentrate
Kinnarps’ survey of 7,000 office workers shows that 4 in 10 find it difficult to concentrate in the office.
“When we plan the office solely around meeting spaces, there is a lack of environments where people can work undisturbed for longer periods,” says Anna-Karin.
Concentration drives productivity
When we cannot concentrate, we get less done. Research shows that it takes an average of 23 minutes to regain focus after being interrupted at work*, but many distractions can be prevented with the right planning.
“Distracting factors can include overhearing nearby conversations or movement in your peripheral vision. Offices do not need to be as quiet as libraries, but different types of work require different types of environments,” Anna-Karin explains.
Anna-Karin Eckerlid, Workplace Strategist at Kinnarps.
Create the right conditions for focus
For the office to contribute to productivity, the balance between collaborative spaces and areas for individual work needs to be carefully considered. What that balance looks like will vary between organisations.
“The key is to map out the activities that actually take place in the office and shape the environments accordingly,” Anna-Karin concludes.
The workplace strategist’s tips for increased focus
- Start with a needs analysis
Map working methods and needs before implementing changes. - Divide the office into zones
Separate active zones from focus zones and clarify where different activities should take place. - Create a good acoustic environment and visual shielding
Create rooms, or rooms within rooms, for undisturbed work. Reduce noise and provide shielding using sound absorbers, screens and furniture.
That’s how to design the office for focus.
