18/04/12

Good working environment 'great for business and the planet'

by Julie Anderson, director of Maidstone-based RAP Interiors

Working in a stale environment with low level lighting, in which the heating is too intense or the air conditioning too cold, can affect productivity.

Such a workplace is guaranteed to leave workers feeling uninspired.

By contrast, imagine a fresh colourful working area with reactive lighting that is LG7 compliant.

The importance of natural light is often overlooked, but daylight exposure should be a major factor in planning and designing workspace. Try creating a more open environment and consider removing interior walls. These could be replaced with glazed partitions, enabling private offices to remain but allowing natural light to permeate the central area.

All light bulbs should be high quality and energy efficient. Low-energy bulbs last up to eight times longer than standard ones and use only a fifth of the energy

Green furniture is essential for any organisation looking to minimise environmental impact. Environmentally friendly products are typically be made from recycled, refurbished, reclaimed or sustainably produced materials.

First impressions are crucial and well planned offices reflecting the organisation's style and values will ensure visitors form a good opinion of the business.