Why Your Home and Office Affect Your Mood and Health
design | architecture | june 2024
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workplace | home - office | workplace design
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Why Your Home and Office Affect Your Mood and Health
If asked about comfort, what is the first thing that comes to mind? Luxurious finishes, plush chairs and sleek interiors? Few would think of their office, and the likely culprit is a fundamental ignorance of an alternative definition of comfort. When defined as a state of physical well-being derived from the provisions that are necessary for occupants to perform space-specific tasks, it’s apparent that architects play a key role--and that comfort is not just about spaces that are comfortable for leisure activities.
Architects and designers are responsible for the visual, thermal and acoustic qualities of spaces, not to mention the indoor air quality of our offices and homes. This is fundamental considering that the typical 21st century urbanite spends an average of 90% of time indoors. We constantly experience physical, psychological and physiological consequences of the balance (or imbalance) of indoor environmental design.
With this in mind, thermal comfort seems obvious (and it is) but unfortunately comfort as a holistic goal of architecture has not been taken seriously enough. Beyond measuring the acoustic and visual aspects of a built space, architects must have a solid understanding of the underlying concepts that drive the best practices. A solid grasp on how material selections will affect qualitative assessments of conferences rooms, homes, theaters, etc. can improve basic tectonic decision making that can, in turn, create more comfortable spaces.
We constantly experience physical, psychological and physiological consequences of the balance (or imbalance) of indoor environmental design.
Comfort Factors and How They are Measured
Acoustic Comfort
Acoustic Comfort is characterized by an appropriate Sound level. This means the absence of unwanted sounds and the quality of sounds we do want to hear. Depending on the type of building (residential, office, school, healthcare or hotel) and activity, one should employ appropriate comfort descriptors.
Visual Comfort
Crucial for an optimal sense of wellbeing, light not brings architecture to life, but also brings life to architecture. Different tasks require specific light quantity levels; optimum spatial distribution contributes to the experience of natural and artificial light. A visual connection to the outside world through exterior views works closely with our biological clock and, together with indoor quality, provides an overall appreciation of aesthetics.
Thermal Comfort
Thermal Comfort is determined by air temperature, humidity and the absence of draughts. The ideal thermal levels vary depending on geography and culture, but in general, interior temperatures 21-24ºC (69.8ºF to 75ºF) are the most comfortable.
Air Quality is determined by fresh air supply, pollutants and odors. It is commonly evaluated by measuring concentration of CO2 and VOC (Volatile organic compounds), as well as number of microparticles and presence of biological toxins.
Thermal Comfort is determined by air temperature, humidity and the absence of draughts. The ideal thermal levels vary depending on geography and culture.
Resources, Efficiency and Well-Being
With continued urbanization, and considering that 1 million people move to cities every week around the world, we should be mindful of how to build sustainably (reducing heavy dependence on natural resources) while considering the health and well-being of occupants. And a good state of health isn’t just a personal concern; there is a large a cost to society associated with unhealthy individuals and altered productivity. According to a report by ASHRAE (American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers), the reduction of respiratory illnesses, allergies and the common cold can save tens of billions of dollars--and it starts with design.
As architects we should try to lessen the knowledge gap between ourselves and the expert consultants and learn simple concepts to address the problems that need to be faced. This conscientious approach not only helps the immediate users of a building, but also plays an important role in sustainability and circularity. Architects, manufacturers and contractors should become aware of waste handling especially as flexible and refurbishment projects become more ubiquitous. Some strategies to keep in mind when designing new projects or interventions range from easy dismantling of modular and prefab construction systems to 3D printing and, most importantly, growing use of BIM potential to reduce construction time, waste generation and logistic costs. Resource efficiency and comfort can be handled by architects in very subtle but important ways, and this is a mere introduction to a much larger, rich discussion.
With this knowledge, architects can and should become leaders in sustainable and energy-efficient designs. Another bonus: by reducing waste in the construction processes associated with basic principles of comfort, you’ll also contribute to a more intelligently urbanized, less resource dependent world.
Creating a productive workspace at home: 3 essential features
Thinking of setting up a work-from-home space or considering sprucing up your current setup? Looking to build something that’s as functional as it is relaxing?
Don’t worry, we’ve provided some of our top tips to create a calming and productive working environment at home. From adjustable lighting to ergonomic seating, here are three essential types of items to include in a home office.
Set up proper lighting
Creating an office space that has sufficient lighting is paramount, not only to reduce eye strain but also to ensure you can work efficiently. If possible, try to let in as much natural light as possible. Doing so can reduce symptoms like fatigue, headaches, and blurred vision.
If you don’t have access to much natural light, you’ll need to find a way to supplement overhead lighting or include a floor or table lamp. Opting for adjustable lights is great for changing the brightness to how you see fit.
During the winter months, to combat those dark afternoons, consider getting a SAD lamp. These lights are specially designed to produce a much-needed boost of bright light that mimics sunlight. It’s most effective when used in the morning and can increase energy levels.
Creating an office space that has sufficient lighting is paramount, not only to reduce eye strain but also to ensure you can work efficiently.
Include non-distracting entertainment
It’s clear that technology and other forms of entertainment are distracting. However, certain equipment can improve your productivity rather than hinder it. For example, smart tablets allow you to use software designed for efficient working, such as note-taking apps and time trackers.
Additionally, playing music is a great way of increasing motivation and keeping you focused. Look to invest in a turntable or vinyl record player to play your favorite songs. If there are others in the home who wouldn’t appreciate the noise, consider a pair of noise-cancelling headphones instead.
Choose ergonomic furniture
We might often catch ourselves sat hunched over our screens. As a result, our neck becomes sore and our back goes stiff. If you’re not comfortable, it’s highly likely you won’t be able to work as efficiently and concentrate on the task at hand.
Instead, design your office with an ergonomic chair that can properly support your back. These chairs are able to open up your blood vessels as a result of better posture, supplying the body with more energy.
You may even decide to get an ergonomic desk, which is ideal if you suffer from common injuries like repetitive strain and carpal tunnel syndrome. Rather than remaining seated for the majority of the day, these desks can be adjusted and raised so that you’re able to work at standing height.
Sources used for this content:
Archdaily | The Home Office Life
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