Providing spaces for quiet work and phone calls is essential in the open-plan office|||
Biophilia – the relationship between humans and nature – is a big buzzword in office design. Coined in the 1980s by Edward O. Wilson, it suggests that as humans, we need to be continually connected to nature. There are plenty of studies to back up this concept, but probably, even without the science behind it, most people would concur that connecting with the natural world around us is restorative and calming.
Natural light, natural colours and natural products all work together to create the optimum environment for productivity and creativity. Contact with natural materials and our response to it continues to exercise significant effects on people’s physical and mental health, performance and wellbeing. Natural products are also more tactile, more versatile, and when it comes to good acoustics, measurably more effective.
The new Hushhubs from Dams’ Social Spaces portfolio have been designed with biophilia in mind. The brand’s Acoustic Hubs use inspiration from the natural world as its basis: using high-quality European oak, acoustic glass, natural fabrics and recyclable materials to create a multi-purpose space where people can gather and communicate, teach and learn, think and concentrate.
It highlights a return to basics, providing light, space and privacy.
Acoustic pods are ten a penny, google those words and you are spoilt for choice with a wide range of office pod manufacturers. But an acoustic Hushhub is designed to stand out, using natural materials for something that’s aesthetically pleasing to look at, more tactile, homely, and when it comes to good acoustics, measurably more effective.
The different sizes of Hushhub means they can be adapted and customised to fit office requirements, creating multiple working zones in one place, and they’re ideal for use in open-plan offices and other places which need private space within a larger area. Improved acoustics in the workplace environment can also help productivity and employees’ sense of wellbeing.
Privacy can be difficult to find in a modern, open-plan office. From the smallest hub, which is like a telephone booth and adequate for one person, to the largest 3m x 3m size which can accommodate groups, Hushhubs can be configured and customised to fit varying office requirements.
The ability to create a mix of diverse workspaces means that an organisation can create balance for its workers, helping to optimise their potential productivity and output. It is increasingly important for employers to be able to create different zones for different types of work, from creating the ideal acoustic space for that impromptu phone call or a quiet study room, to spaces to work, meet, socialise and collaborate.
Companies that invest in biophilic design in the workplace recognise the importance of health and wellbeing in attracting and maintaining the best employees. Hushhubs are designed to make bringing natural materials into the office simple, with a dual emphasis on functionality and beauty.
Hushhubs are featured in the new Social Spaces™ catalogue, which features over 40 unique, designer furniture collections, designed and manufactured in the UK by Dams Furniture. To get your copy, contact the Dams sales team today on 0151 548 7111 or visit socialspacesfurniture.com
