Let’s face it, no matter how much one likes their job, it is inevitable that there will be some point where they feel like they would be anywhere else other than an office. This is such a prevalent issue for employers that, in our many years of service in the lower mainland, the renovation pros at Atlas Painting & Restorations Ltd. have encountered many disgruntled business owners looking to find new ways to brighten the workplace so as to promote employee engagement. As we have iterated in previous articles, colour schemes can play a vital role in the comfort and mindset of individuals present in a room. Taking this into consideration, we have rallied together a quick guide for those looking to re-vamp their workspace in a fashion that enhances general productivity and employee satisfaction.
Before diving into the details of which shades and hues can be used to promote a stable work environment, it is important to understand that this is certainly not a fix-all solution. If one expects a mere paint job to lead to the evolution of a bustling enterprise spearheaded by a team of eager employees, then they better guess again. Choosing a fresh selection of paints is more likely to promote general comfort and satisfaction rather than produce immediate, measurable effects. The results of a new paint job are intrinsic to say the least, but can still be used as a great tool in any office renovation.
One thing to keep in mind is the role that lighting plays in tandem with colour arrangements. As a general rule, artificial lighting is going to produce a less welcoming environment, while natural lighting from windows and doorways is much more friendly, and can also provide opportunities to provide workers with a breath of fresh air. Finding furniture and upholstery that aligns with the chosen colour scheme is also vital, as mismatching arrangements are unsightly and can perturb employees and visitors alike. Vancouver is a city of progress and fashion, something which should be reflected through the careful design and planning of its centers of innovation and industry.
Areas of the workplace that are reserved for executive functions such as board rooms or private offices are best suited to strong, bold colours such as royal blue, burgundy, or brown. These exhibit a sense of power and authority, henceforth promoting loyalty and respect. In scenarios where the dimensions or lighting of the room prohibit the use of bold colours, they can still be applied by highlighting nuances of the space such as walls, columns, or even doors and door frames. Bright coats of yellow and light red should typically be avoided as they can help create a feeling of unease.
Rooms reserved for brainstorming, learning, or large meetings are typically best suited to calm and reserved hues such as light blues and greens, beiges, and some pastels. These colours help stir up creative minds, and can help spurn the thought processes you need to drive your business forwards. When renovating these spaces, try to avoid very bland shades such as whites or off-whites as they have a tendency to provoke the imagination in a fashion that promotes procrastination rather than productivity. Although there are always a few ‘window-starers’ in the office, trying to make these areas in well-lit areas that are exposed to plenty of natural light is never a bad idea.
Ultimately, the colour scheme that is chosen for the workplace is something that can profoundly influence employee engagement and practice. One thing that can help boost morale when deciding to renovate is allowing people to vote on which hues they would prefer. By providing guidance through the information presented in this article (or this one) an employer can help guide these decisions while also outsourcing creative control. Many workplaces in Vancouver have been aesthetically altered in ways that enhance their employees, and yours could be next. If you have any questions, would like a free coat, or are interested in hiring some of the most premium renovation services that the city has to offer, don’t hesitate to give us a call or reach out via our website!