There has been a very robust movement in the last decade or two, recognizing the importance of worker health and productivity, to implement positive changes in the office environment. WELL and other standards have given guidance to architects and other professionals about features that can be built into buildings to attract businesses.

But the COVID pandemic changed things quickly. Many offices found in professional, commercial buildings became vacant and more workers began to work from home. Even with the health emergency waning, many workers have chosen not to return to their offices and are working from home permanently. Can features implemented in commercial offices be useful in the home office environment, too? Here are a few ways for home-grounded workers to maintain health and productivity. 

• Indoor air quality.  The vast majority of commercial office buildings must meet ventilation standards to ensure circulation of fresh air for workers. Such codes do not exist for residences. The best way to get fresh air in a home office is to open the window. In my home office, I try to open the window to let in fresh air at least once a day for at least a few minutes, even in the coldest or hottest days. This is important as workplace air quality correlates with how one feels and productivity.
• Comfort. Thermal comfort is also crucial, both being too hot or too cold. This is troublesome in a commercial office shared by many people with different needs, but can be more easily navigated in the home office.
• Lighting.  Lighting is another important factor for mood and productivity. Lighting that is too dim leads to potential errors. Lighting that is too bright can lead to eye strain. IESNA has published illumination standards for different types of work and tasks. Make sure you meet the minimum standards to better ensure good work and not to go too far over them for energy savings and reduced eye strain
• Looking outside. Workers near plants or with a view of nature from a window are more productive than those without a connection to nature. Some commercial offices do not allow plants or have limited window space. Setting up one’s own home office allows you the freedom to maximize exposure to nature.
• Noise. Probably the greatest factor affecting worker productivity is noise that causes distractions. Most commercial offices are built to attenuate outside noise (traffic, other people, etc.). But this is not true necessarily in residential home offices. Take some time to determine where there may be noise issues around your home (i.e., kids playing after school, trucks and construction) and plan for them. This is especially true if you lead Zoom meetings regularly.
• Your Own Amenities and Feel. Sometimes a commercial office does not have the “feel” or “vibe” you like; you have to give in to the group vision of your firm. But in your own home office, you can add the colors, the feel, and amenities that mean a lot to you, such as snacks (or no snacks) nearby, weights or other exercise equipment, artwork you like on the walls, background music, etc.

So invest some time, money, and effort, but make your home office a special place for your feelings and vibe to feel more comfortable, happy, and productive.

CCES has the experts to help you design your office or other spaces to be green and sustainable. Contact us today at 914-584-6720 or at karell@CCESworld.com.