- Nish Agarwal
Workplace design that truly supports the wellbeing of its people must go beyond incorporating a few pot plants. The most successful office fit outs take a holistic approach, addressing both physical and psychological wellbeing to create environments where people feel comfortable, engaged, and empowered to perform at their best.
At Select Interiors, our approach is underpinned by our four pillars: People, Place, Performance, and Planet. These guide how we design workplaces that don’t just look good—but work better.
Here are three simple, high-impact ways to embed wellbeing into your next office fit out:
Empower People Through Choice and Control (People + Performance)
One of the biggest contributors to workplace stress is a lack of control over environment, lighting, noise, and where work gets done.
Great workplace design flips this, giving users choice and flexibility.
Environmental control means providing the right design, furniture, technology, and creating micro-environments within the footprint so staff can choose their workspace to best support their tasks
Why it matters:
- Increases employee engagement and satisfaction
- Improves team effectiveness and cohesion
- Reduces stress and frustration
Easy ways to implement:
- Provide adjustable task lighting for individual control
- Use height-adjustable desks and ergonomic furniture
- Create a mix of spaces,
- Focus zones,
- Collaboration areas
- Social / breakout spaces
- Quiet spaces
When people can choose how & which environment in which they work it improves activity, performance & productivity
Bring Nature Into Workplace Design (Place + Planet)
Humans have a primal connection to nature, incorporating natural elements into the workplace is one of the simplest ways to boost wellbeing.
Think about it: we all feel better after time outdoors. The same principle applies at work.
Why it matters:
- Up to 15% higher reported wellbeing in biophilic environments
- Improved productivity and engagement
- Better air quality and reduced stress
Easy ways to implement:
- Introduce planting and integrated greenery
- Maximise natural light and views to the outside
- Use natural materials like timber and stone
- Incorporate nature-inspired textures and patterns
- Add large-scale nature graphics or murals where real views aren’t possible
At Select Interiors, we see this as more than an aesthetic choice—it’s about creating a place that supports both people and the wider environment.
Design for Movement and Changing Posture (People + Performance)
Workplace wellbeing isn’t just about sitting comfortably it’s about not sitting all day at all.
Research shows that continuous movement throughout the day is far more beneficial than short bursts of exercise before or after work.
Why it matters:
- Reduces fatigue and physical strain
- Improves energy levels and focus
- Encourages collaboration and interaction
Easy ways to implement:
- Incorporate sit-stand desks
- Create activity-based working environments
- Design informal meeting spaces (booths, lounges, café areas)
- Position amenities (printers, kitchens, water points) to encourage movement
- Promote walking meetings and standing catch-ups
A well-designed office should naturally encourage people to move—without them even thinking about it.
Bonus: Don’t Overlook Acoustics (Place + Performance)
Noise is one of the biggest hidden stressors in the workplace.
Poor acoustic design can lead to distraction, reduced concentration, and increased fatigue—while the right approach can significantly improve productivity and wellbeing.
Key principles:
- Avoid noise conflict
Separate quiet teams (e.g. finance) from high-energy teams (e.g. sales) - Reduce noise transfer
Use acoustic screens, rafts, and soft finishes - Provide choice
Quiet zones vs collaboration spaces—clearly defined - Educate users
Set expectations around how spaces should be used
Interestingly, studies show that natural soundscapes, like birdsong or water can reduce stress and improve focus.
Workplace Design That Truly Works
At Select Interiors, we believe great office design sits at the intersection of:
- People – supporting wellbeing and experience
- Place – creating inspiring, functional environments
- Performance – driving productivity and business outcomes
- Planet – designing responsibly and sustainably
By embedding these principles into every office fit out, we create spaces that don’t just look ‘pretty’ but to genuinely improve how people feel and perform at work
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