With expert planning and curation, integrating art into the design of workplaces facilitates a stronger sense of connection while improving employee productivity & wellbeing.
Key takeaways:
As the nature of work and the places where we work are changing, forward-thinking organisations recognise that their most valuable asset is in the human capital of their employees. By creating a meaningful and inspiring workplace, they can help release that innate value and support the health and wellbeing of their people.
From premium spirits companies to software and banking institutions, companies are increasingly turning to art as a means to accelerate performance. It has the power to bring their own history and culture to life and create a memorable, visually engaging experience that ignites a spirit of creativity and humanises the workplace.
However, although art is a common sight in today’s modern office environment, it is often an afterthought that is poorly executed. Unaware of the creative options and media available to them, companies may find short-term convenience in resorting to traditional decors such as prints and corporate graphics. But once art becomes an integral part of the design process using the right artists and medium, its impact can be deep and its message full of purpose.
Integrating art into the design process is good for business.
Given the intense competition for skilled talent and the huge increase in flexible, remote working, organisations need to transform their offices into destinations that encourage collaboration and build community. This can be achieved by creating an attractive and comfortable environment where people feel connected and look forward to working in.
In this regard, art has become a valuable strategy for the most innovative companies to create visual interest and elevate their brand. Designed to be relevant in the age of social media, this new breed of workplaces provides employees with opportunities to engage with one another and share moments enhanced by unique and bespoke artworks.
Leveraging our large network of artists and studios, the M Moser Brand Experience team directs a range of creatives to translate a client’s values and culture into a memorable experience. Art has helped transform workplaces into dynamic and meaningful environments where people feel a sense of belonging, pride, and lasting connection to their organisation.
On an individual level, studies by the Journal of Business Research have shown that being exposed to art catalyses innovation and creative thinking. A workplace infused with local influences, for instance, fosters an appreciation and celebration of diversity and cultures. This provides much needed inspiration and positivity in a world which, before COVID-19, saw work-related stress, depression and anxiety cost the global economy US $1 trillion per year in lost productivity according to the World Health Organization.
As designers and architects, our priority lies in our ability to address such concerns by creating work environments that not only fulfil our clients’ business objectives but also support the mental, physical, and emotional wellbeing of their people.
Over two decades of research into the effects of the arts on health conducted by the WHO European Region have found a positive correlation between the integration of such creative manifestations and people’s wellbeing. Art has the capacity to relieve mental fatigue, stress, and depression, whilst restoring our ability to focus and think creatively. These findings align with M Moser’s integrated design approach whereby sustainability, wellness and brand experience come together early in the design process.
We collaborate closely with local artists and studios to transform an organisation’s brand narrative, culture and heritage into a variety of artworks and installations based on the user journey. By going beyond just the visual impact of art, the process of creating in itself brings immense value.
Our human-centric approach to design and expertise in change management have enabled us to bring artists and users together to co-create parts of their office’s artworks. This process becomes a powerful engagement tool for employees to be active participants in their organisation’s future, connecting more closely with their working environment and creatively interacting with one another. Those workshops and team-building activities result in a fun, memorable, and personalised workplace experience.
Historically speaking, work environments have focused largely on processes, operations, and efficiency, overlooking the brand and culture of an organisation. Today more than ever before, businesses are increasingly realising that their people are the heart and soul of their company. Prioritising human needs and wellbeing leads to a happier and more engaged workforce, yielding tangible benefits and incalculable value.
Art will have an increasingly important role in the design of future workplaces, as the purpose and benefit of these environments continues to change in such challenging times. As a uniquely human practice, art influences, inspires, and connects, having the power to elevate like no other medium. Born in our endlessly creative minds, it tells us stories, stirs our emotions, and speaks to our individual human needs, ultimately enhancing our workplace experience and transforming the way we work.
Watch how we humanise our clients’ office environments with our “Art at Work” showreel:
Associate Director
