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How does the work environment feel, sound, and look?
A well-designed space supports focus,
recovery, and workflow. Excessive noise,
glaring light, or a confusing environment that
makes it difficult to perceive the space cause unnecessary strain.
A sensory-friendly work environment takes into account the
different needs of the users and enables equal functional
capacity for everyone. It is not just accessible, but also
spatially and multisensorially clear, predictable, and flexible.
While biophilic design brings elements of nature into workspaces,
sensory-friendly design delves deeper into how
different senses together affect the experience of the space – and how this experience can be improved.
A sensory-friendly work environment supports all employees'
well-being and focus, but it is especially significant
for people with sensory sensitivities, neurodivergent
traits or other challenges related to spatial perception
and the regulation of stimuli. When the environment is clear,
predictable and controlled in its stimulation, it promotes equal
functional ability and improves well-being at work.
Minimizing negative stimuli
Constant noise, intense artificial light or a mix of odors
can strain the senses unnoticed. A sensory-friendly
environment does not mean removing stimuli, but rather
their controlled regulation. The goal is to create a space that supports
work and well-being without unnecessary strain.
The most important factor in the work environment for comfort and
focus is the soundscape. Excessive background noise
impairs work efficiency and increases stress levels, but also an
excessively quiet environment can make even small sounds distracting.
Therefore, the acoustics of workspaces should be designed to support both
focus and recovery.
Workspace lighting, in turn, affects alertness, mood, and
work efficiency. Light that is too bright or bluish can strain the eyes,
while uneven lighting can make the space challenging
to perceive.
Sensory-accessible organizational culture
Sensory-friendliness is not limited only to physical elements –
the use of the space and operational principles also have a significant
impact on the user experience. A consistently designed and
maintained work environment reduces cognitive load and
supports focus.
Good order and cleanliness are an essential part of a sensory-friendly
work environment. Clear and tidy spaces reduce
cognitive load and increase tranquility at work.
Disorder and clutter, on the other hand, can cause stress and
distract from concentration. Tidiness and order in workspaces are
everyone's responsibility, and maintaining them requires clear
practices and sufficient storage spaces.
Recovery during the workday
A sensory-friendly work environment supports recovery from work
already during the workday. Short breaks, the opportunity to change
work position, and retreating from stimuli help you sustain energy
and maintain the ability to focus. A sensory-friendly designed
space offers various recovery options for individual
needs – for some, it means an environment where distracting
factors are minimized and where one can focus on calming down,
for others, it means a space where pleasant sensory experiences, such as
nature sounds, warmth, or soft materials support
relaxation.
How can you implement sensory-friendly spaces?
Manage the soundscape
✓ Use acoustic ceiling and wall panels as well as soft
materials, such as upholstery and carpets, to dampen
echo and footsteps.
✓ Structural sound insulation, such as soundproof partition
walls and sound-insulating doors, prevents sound from traveling
between spaces.
✓ Create different sound zones: quiet areas for concentration
and more open spaces for interaction.
✓ Ensure management of background sounds: nature sounds or light
background music can support focus, but continuous
device noises can be taxing.
Utilize natural light and lighting control options
✓ Place workstations near windows for natural light and
views.
✓ Enable adjustment of light intensity and color temperature
according to the task.
✓ Use indirect lighting and anti-glare solutions
Create a clear and intuitive space
✓ A consistent floor plan supports functionality and
facilitates movement in the space.
✓ Correct scale of premises and ergonomic furniture improve
comfort.
✓ Avoid strong contrasts. A harmonious color palette creates
a peaceful visual environment.
Consider touch and smell
✓ Use sensory-friendly materials, such as soft-surfaced
textiles and natural materials.
✓ Pay attention to indoor temperature and draught prevention, as even minor
temperature fluctuations can affect well-being.
✓ Ensure air quality and odor control by choosing low
emission materials and offering scent-free workspaces.
Enable recovery in a sensory-friendly environment
✓ Create quiet retreat spaces where one can momentarily
detach from sensory overload.
✓ Utilize multi-sensory elements, such as nature sounds
and soft materials.
✓ Encourage walking meetings – recovery does not mean
just sitting still.
✓ Utilize biophilic design: natural materials,
plants and water elements support recovery and stress
management.