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Initiated by pranks and characterised by rain, April marks National Stress Awareness Month. The event has been held every April since 1992 and serves as an important opportunity to raise awareness of stress and its impacts on individuals.

Stress can be exacerbated by a number of factors from poor lighting to excessive noise and clutter. By prioritising certain design elements, businesses can create environments that counteract these stressors. And it’s not just about aesthetics — having a well-designed workplace has tangible business benefits, positively impacting employees leading to higher productivity and lower turnover.

Design considerations to reduce stress 

Studies have shown that exposure to natural elements can lower stress levels and improve mood. That’s where biophilic design can provide significant benefits. Try bringing the outside in with:

    • Indoor plants and green walls

    • Natural materials like wood and stone

    • A colour palette of natural hues like greens and brown

    • Ample access to daylight and views of nature with large windows or skylights

Lighting has a profound effect on stress levels, with harsh lighting contributing to anxiety, while softer, warmer lighting creates a soothing atmosphere. Why not consider the following:

    • Utilise as much natural light as possible

    • Implement adjustable lighting systems that can be adapted for varying user needs/times of day

    • Warm-toned lights for calming effects

Another major contributor to stress is excessive noise, this can be managed by:

    • Installing acoustic panels or other sound-absorbing materials such as soft furnishings

    • Creating designated quiet spaces and breakout areas for focused work or relaxation

    • Using physical barriers to divide the space and limit sound travelling

Finally, you’ll want to eliminate clutter as this can contribute to mental overload. To achieve this a clean, organised space:

    • Use smart storage solutions to keep spaces tidy

    • Choose minimalist designs with neutral colours and simple layouts

    • Ensure effective space planning to prevent overcrowding

Are you looking to redesign your commercial space? Find out more about McCarthys’ innovative design, build, fit out and refurbishment solutions here.

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