An Eye on Design | What is it like to be an office designer?

As a child, I’ve always been creative so it was just a matter time until I recognised my strengths. When I was young, I was exposed to lots of the traditional professions you’d expect - doctor, lawyer, architect and so on. But I was forever drawing - even in my earliest memories, I can see myself drawing.

I remember my first glimpse of the world that existed alongside architecture. I found it all really thrilling. My uncle, an architect, took me to his studio. It was incredible to see models, drawings and photographs of his completed buildings. I understood that there were plumbers, bricklayers and a whole world of trades that were all linked through the design and sketches to take things from concept to reality.

I really bought into the psychology of office design. Right from the start, I’ve always thought it’s fascinating that a physical environment can impact peoples’ behaviour. And, more than that, it can actually make them feel happy, productive and fulfilled, or grumpy, unmotivated and unsatisfied.

When you dig a little deeper, you begin to see how even varying industries, sectors and businesses require different things for their employees. Perhaps more specialised lighting in laboratories, quiet areas and sound acoustics in confidential settings, or vibrant breakouts in startups. Discovering the unique composition of what each space can offer is special.

I love to observe and analyse people to see how they engage with a space. What do they take away from their experience? How do they feel? What has supported them throughout the day? We spend more time in the office than at home. I really believe that a successful office design is one that replicates the comfort and ‘sanctuary’ factor of home in some meaningful way. Sometimes discovering that the smallest change will make the biggest impact is the most rewarding part of the day.