Attracting talents is already challenging, retaining them is even more difficult. According to research from experts, the work environment plays a crucial role in employee satisfaction. So, how can we build a happy workplace that fosters the development of our workforce?

How would designing a happy workplace focus on people?

Going beyond mere aesthetics, designing a happy workplace entail crafting a workspace grounded in scientific research and human psychology. The primary goal is to foster optimal conditions for employees’ physical, mental, and emotional well-being, cultivating a sense of happiness, comfort, safety, and respect.

The hallmark of a happy office design is its human-centric focus. It goes beyond a one-size-fits-all approach by actively understanding the diverse needs, preferences, and aspirations of individual employees. This also means that you can work in a flexible environment that readily adapts to accommodate the unique working styles and needs of each team member.

A happy workplace also fosters connectivity by encouraging effective communication, collaboration, and interaction among employees. This open and collaborative environment allows teams to work together seamlessly, fostering a sense of community and belonging.

3 Key HR Metrics Affected by Happy Workplace Design

Happy workplace design can profoundly impact their health and well-being, which in turn affects their performance, engagement, and morale.

This responsibility lies not only with the facilities team but also with the HR team. Or at least, it greatly impacts key HR metrics that represent the ability to attract and retain talent. 

• Reduced absenteeism: By promoting employee health and well-being, a happy work environment can lead to lower rates of missed workdays due to illness or stress.
• Improved retention: Comfortable, well-designed offices with features that prioritize employee well-being can help reduce employee turnover and increase retention rates.
• Increased eNPS: A happy and comfortable work environment can lead to more engaged and satisfied employees who are more likely to recommend their company to others, boosting the company’s Employee Net Promoter Score (eNPS).

How to transform HR metrics into a “dazzling” attraction for talents?

DBPlus is ready to join hands with you to build a happy office with the latest and most applicable design ideas:

Unpredictable Design

Surprises spice up life, and they can also spice up the work environment. Unpredictable design elements bring freshness, break monotony, and inspire joy for employees. 

Color-changing lights, sound-emitting stairs, secluded “secret” areas with cozy seating, or unexpected event spaces can create enjoyable surprises, triggering the release of dopamine – the “happiness hormone”. Exposure to such unexpected designs in the workplace can foster excitement, reduce stress, enhance camaraderie among colleagues, and increase commitment to the company. 

On International Women’s Day (8th March), DBPlus covertly transformed the pantry into a neck and shoulder massage spa for female employees, providing a unique sensory experience that left everyone pleasantly surprised and happy.

Burst of Colors

Colors can make a significant impact. For instance, soothing sky blue, elegant lavender, or gentle green can enhance focus, while vibrant orange, bright yellow, or bold red stimulate creativity. 

Instead of uniform furniture, enliven the workspace with office chairs in contrasting colors, multi-colored desks, or unique accents on walls, ceilings, and floors. 

Colors significantly affect employees’ mood and productivity. Utilizing a combination of Pantone shades in office furniture based on color harmony principles such as contrast, similarity, or triad can effectively stimulate the production of happiness hormones like serotonin and oxytocin. Consequently, it motivates employees to work more and feel proud of their workplace.

Activating Agility & Flexibility

Agility is essential in placing employees at the center and focusing on how tasks are performed rather than where. An agile environment allows employees to decide their own time, location, and method of work, enhancing their experience and satisfaction.

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At DBPlus, flexible workspace design strategies include using multifunctional spaces, creating collaborative work areas, and opting for adjustable furniture for various purposes. Creating easily adaptable spaces to meet diverse requirements can be supported by using smart furniture, such as movable chairs and desks or easily configurable dividers that create zones within an open office environment.

Structure and Finishing

Human instinct is drawn to natural textures like wood, stone, and metal. This principle underlies environmentally-friendly office design.

Wood-inspired or actual wood floors provide a warm, natural feel. Concrete surfaces convey a modern, sophisticated vibe, while incorporating unconventional materials like metal, wood, textiles, and stone creates unique focal points for the office.

Simulating an environmentally-friendly workspace reflects the company’s concern for the health and well-being of its employees, attracting potential candidates. This design also creates a comfortable, nature-friendly work environment that helps employees relax, reduce stress, and feel more connected to the company.

At DBPlus, we believe a happy office is an ideal working environment where individuals are respected, nurtured, and feel content. Designing a happy office is a long-term investment that benefits businesses. It helps businesses create an ideal working environment, attract and retain talent, and ultimately promote success and sustainable development. 

DBPlus is also implementing and committed to becoming a happy working environment for all employees.