Did you know that the way your office is designed can directly affect your productivity? Choosing the right wallpaper is key when designing an office space and can help boost your focus on your day-to-day tasks.
Check out a few of our top tips for using wallpaper to create an inspiring space below.
First, consider what kind of work will be done in the space + who will be using it.
If you're a creative, you'll want to design a space that helps you unleash your imagination and allows you to feel inspired. Bold, bright colors — orange and yellow are believed to inspire creativity, for example — and fun patterns can help push you toward those creative goals. Skip neutral tones, like whites and grays, because they can create a sterile environment and foster a sense of boredom and monotony.
If the office space will be primarily used by kids, you'll want to focus on durability, so the materials of the wallpaper used will be just as important as the color or pattern. Look for wallpapers that are scrubbable and washable, and refrain from choosing wallpapers that are made of natural materials such as grasscloth. In a study about which colors are preferred by children, purple came out on top. “Designers may wish to incorporate more cool colors… A wall with a subtle purple hue may support children’s interest in the space” (Read and Upington, 2009, p. 495).
For “traditional” adult workspaces where efficiency is a top priority, focus on creating a comfortable environment that will instill a sense of happiness when you begin working each day. Color choice is important here, too - green wallpaper tends to keep the mind fresh and alert and can work as an energizer when you're ready to call it quits, and blue is associated with improved communication and focus. Red wallpaper, on the other hand, can denote aggression and can create additional pressure when you're already stressed - ain’t nobody got time for that!
Pattern choice matters, too.
While color choice tends to play a bigger psychological role in affecting overall productivity, pattern choice can dictate the difference between checking off all of those to-dos or just a few. Not only does wallpaper set the entire tone of the room, it also affects our mood, which can then affect productivity. A University of Warwick study demonstrated that happy workers are 12% more productive, and wallpaper is a great way to make you smile at the start of a work day.
Another consideration is how you work - if you tend to get easily distracted (cue me raising my hand), steer clear of elaborate patterns and instead focus on soothing options.
Wallpaper is a totally personal choice.
When you're deciding between patterns, ask yourself the following questions:
1. Do I want my work to be reflected in my wallpaper pattern?
2. How does this wallpaper make me feel? Am I inspired? Do I feel happy?
3. Will I get bored with this wallpaper pattern or color scheme? Will it annoy me after working for a few hours?
4. Will this wallpaper distract me, or do I think it will help my concentration?
If you’re interested in adding wallpaper to your workspace or if you'd like additional tips for designing a productive office space, we’d love to help!