July 25, 2019Marcus Oxe

Work, Life, and Balance

Balance is key

Text by Sara Leganger

Many people know this by now. But how do you achieve work-life balance? Juliana Fernandez, head of AEI U.S. Studio at the North American AEI U.S. Studio,

A global design firm that ranks among the largest in Latin America has extensive experience in preventing workplace stress through innovative office designs. Fernandez believes it is critical that many people spend the majority of their waking hours being reachable via smartphones, tablets, and desktops, and that there is a growing trend toward workplace environments and cultures that cause stress for employees. According to her, business owners should take responsibility for their employees’ well-being, and after many years of research and experience, Fernandez has identified four fundamental design factors that have been shown to help reduce stress in the workplace.

The Four Design Factors

Natural light. Providing employees with the greatest possible access to fresh air and natural light has been shown to reduce headaches and respiratory illnesses. To ensure sufficient light and air in the workplace, AEI U.S. Studios has helped companies design offices near windows, open up enclosed office spaces by incorporating glass into the walls, and relocate enclosed rooms toward the center of the building.
Smart designs boost efficiency. By using the right office furniture, it has been possible to minimize musculoskeletal disorders, bone diseases, and physical discomforts such as headaches and more among company employees—problems that can arise from prolonged poor posture. This has been achieved, in part, by implementing adjustable computer monitors that can be customized to the employees’ heights.
Work-Life Balance. This involves considering how the company can remain dynamic by striking a balance between screen-based work and the social environment at work. This can be achieved, among other things, by giving employees the opportunity to choose where and how they work and by empowering them in their work processes. It has also proven beneficial to incorporate “breathing spaces” where employees can take breaks when fatigue or other issues arise.
Consider the employees' needs. It’s a good idea to identify employees’ individual needs based on the specific profession and corporate culture the company wishes to foster. This can be achieved, among other things, by conducting periodic employee surveys, and if possible, it may be helpful to work closely with anthropologists and psychologists to gather observations, survey responses, and perhaps even results from workshops. In this way, the company can determine whether the interaction between the employer and the employees is mutually supportive, or whether other initiatives or changes should be put on the agenda.

At AEI U.S. Studio, specific design factors have proven to be crucial in reducing stress, promoting healthy habits, supporting physical well-being, and generally maximizing employee productivity and well-being in the workplace. However, this requires that employers be willing to take a close look at their own companies to determine whether their employees are thriving in the workplace. By examining these four design factors, it is certainly possible to find inspiration for new initiatives. And who doesn’t want the best for their employees?

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