Colenberg and Tuuli thoroughly investigated how workplace design can support worker health. They determined via a multi-disciplinary literature review that “It is widely recognized that interior office space can affect health in several ways. Strategic and evidence-based design, including explicit design objectives, well-chosen design solutions and evaluation of results, aid realization of desired health effects. Therefore, this paper aims to identify possibly effective interior design strategies and accompanying design solutions. . . . Four main workplace design strategies were identified. Design for comfort aims at reducing or preventing health complaints, discomfort and stress, following a pathogenic approach. It has the longest tradition and is the most frequently addressed in the included papers. The other three take a salutogenic approach, promoting health by increasing resources for coping with demands through positive design. Design for restoration supports physical and mental recovery through connections with nature. Design for social well-being facilitates social cohesion and feelings of belonging. Design for healthy behavior aims at nudging physical activity in the workplace.”
Susanne Colenberg and Jylha Tuuli. 2022. “Identifying Interior Design Strategies for Healthy Workplaces – A Literature Review.” Journal of Corporate Real Estate, vol. 24, no. 3, pp. 173-189, https://doi.org/10.1108/JCRE-12-2020-0068