Salutogenic and user-centred approach for workplace design

Abstract

The present study suggests a shift in perspective of workplace design towards a salutogenic and user-centred approach, one that promotes users’ health and well-being in buildings. Intelligent buildings should support a sense of coherence and be functional in accordance with the users’ needs. This article aims firstly to identify the dimensions of a workspace quality that could promote human well-being and secondly, to create a preliminary framework for workplace development. In addition to the chemical, physical and microbiological factors of indoor air and the quality of the indoor environment, the focus of this article is on the functional, psychological and social dimensions of the workspace. A workspace that can promote human well-being supports work tasks and work processes; is ergonomic and accessible to all; respects privacy and the personal need for space; strengthens a sense of control; enhances work flow and engagement; and promotes communication and learning. Multiprofessional empirical research, piloting and feedback from different user groups are needed in order to convert theoretical knowledge into functional design solutions.

Keywords:

• indoor environment
• salutogenic
• user-centred design
• workplace

Acknowledgements

The study is part of the ‘Energy-efficient and socially responsible working and learning environments’ (Human & Green) project of the RYM Indoor Environment Program in 2011–2015.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Additional information

Funding

The Finnish Funding Agency for Technology and Innovation and pilot organizations are greatly acknowledged for funding this research.