“Quiet please. I can’t hear myself think”. Open plan offices are increasingly criticised for not providing a quiet place to work when needed. Hearing and being heard is essential for effective communication. Appealing as it seems, sitting in a coffee shop with a...

A workplace example Carefully chosen plants for the work environment have a material effect on occupant performance, that is ultimately reflected in the ‘bottom line.’ Success follows from the design concept that is based on space efficiency, corporate identity,...

In response to numerous questions from architects and engineers (who are generally wary of specifying or managing biological systems), this brief list was prepared by me in 1989. Fortunately times change, and building designs and fit-outs are focussed on building...

Silicon Valley and the technology industry generally leads the way in shaping workplace design practices and culture, with the focus on the well being of its people. As the opportunity arises, forward – looking companies are increasingly adopting this approach, (but...

JLL 6 January 2016  "Treescrapers: Merging concrete with nature" Plants and trees in, on, under and around our buildings are delivering a better living/working environment by incorporating greenery, fresh air, natural light and access to outdoor areas. Ken Yeang...

Lean Office Design vs. Enriched Office Design “Simply enriching a previously Spartan space with plants served to increase productivity by 15 per cent,” said lead researcher Marlon Nieuwenhuis, from Cardiff University’s School of Psychology. “This conclusion is at odds...

You’re baking your perfect cake and you realize the reason your cake doesn’t look or taste as good as the prizewinner’s is because the generously shared recipe is missing that vital ingredient. Workplace design has many ingredients, and is constantly evolving to meet...

GETTING THE LIGHT RIGHT FOR INTERIOR GARDENS  Green walls, atrium gardens, sky gardens and sky parks are increasingly specified for tall buildings for all the benefits they bring, but with tight budgets and cost over runs, it is essential to get the landscape right...

MAKING THE PITCH FOR GREEN The value of atrium gardens, sky-gardens and vertical gardens extends beyond aesthetics. Interior landscapes make buildings attractive and pleasant for people, while contributing to the economic viability, financial success and higher market...